CASPER, Wyo. - The Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the Bureau of Land Management Casper Field Office are launching a collaborative habitat restoration project off Circle Drive, a scenic, mountain road located just south of Casper, winding through the "back side" of Casper Mountain and the adjacent Muddy Mountain.  The project aims to remove encroaching juniper trees to improve local wildlife habitat and reduce wildfire risks.

Historically, natural wildfires kept native junipers from encroaching into sagebrush and grassland ecosystems.  Decades of fire suppression have allowed these trees to expand rapidly across the West, crowding out the open sagebrush habitats that mule deer, pronghorn and sage-grouse rely on.  Using historical data to target areas, this project will selectively remove encroaching junipers. Mature junipers also consume massive amounts of water and alter soil chemistry to block other growth; clearing them can revive dry springs, boost late-season stream flows, and give native plants and wildlife the resources they need to thrive. 

Additionally, thinning the dense juniper stands will significantly reduce fuel loads, lowering the risk of high-intensity wildfires and protecting nearby communities.

"Partnering with the BLM on this project allows us to address habitat degradation at a meaningful scale," said Brandon Werner, Casper wildlife management coordinator for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. "By removing these encroaching junipers, we are opening up the landscape to encourage the growth of nutritious forage and water resources that our big game herds rely on.  These projects may seem small, but they are a big win for species like mule deer."

What the public can expect:

• Work area: Active operations will occur adjacent to Circle Drive, Natrona County Road 505 (CR 505), just off of WY-487 (the Medicine Bow Highway). 
• Equipment and noise: Public land users should expect to see and hear heavy machinery, including masticators and chainsaws, in the project area.
• Access: While no major road closures are planned, recreationists and hunters are advised to keep a safe distance from active work crews and equipment.

The project is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks. Funding and resources for this project represent a shared commitment by both state and federal partners to maintain healthy, resilient public lands in Wyoming. This is Phase I of Phase II, the second phase will begin in 2027.

For more information regarding the project timeline or specific treatment areas, please contact the Wyoming Game and Fish Casper Regional Office at (307) 473-3400.