CHEYENNE — Last week, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department hosted public workshops to discuss Feedground Management Action Plans for both the Jackson and Pinedale elk herd units. The workshops were part of an ongoing public engagement process as Game and Fish works on the development of action plans.
FMAPs are living documents designed to be adaptable as on-the-ground-conditions change and scientific research and development continue to shape new strategies. Ultimately, there will be a total of six FMAPs, and each one will focus on the individual herds and feedgrounds within those herds.
FMAPs are created as directed by the Wyoming Elk Feedgrounds Management Plan that was approved by the Game and Fish Commission in 2024. Goals and sideboards for the FMAPs are outlined in the Feedground Plan.
“FMAPs focus on how we manage feedgrounds and how we can optimize our management approach for these areas,” said Craig Smith, Deputy Chief of Wildlife for Game and Fish. “They provide a roadmap so we can identify needs and manage the feedgrounds now, and ensure the plans are adaptive so we can address future needs that will come up.”
The public workshops last week provided an update on the FMAPs current status, progress that has been made, and the next steps. The workshops provided opportunities to discuss concerns and priorities from attending stakeholders. Topics discussed included predator management on feedgrounds, disease mitigation and management, as well as current feeding methods and improvements.
“We appreciate the comments and discussions that took place during the workshops with the public - participants provided valuable insights, and that feedback will be considered for our FMAPs,” Smith said.
Regional personnel will continue to engage stakeholders. Copies of the current draft FMAPs are available by contacting the Jackson or Pinedale regional office. Links to the Jackson and Pinedale FMAPs are also available. Updated versions of the FMAPs will be shared later this year.
A public update on the FMAPs will take place during the March 18-19 Commission meeting in Torrington.
—WGFD—