In November, Sheridan Region Terrestrial Habitat Biologist Todd Caltrider was recognized as Outstanding Conservationist of the Year by the Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts at their 80th annual convention in Gillette. 

Caltrider has worked as a habitat biologist in northeast Wyoming since 2012. In his position, he works cooperatively with federal and state land management agencies, nonprofit conservation organizations and private landowners to complete habitat improvement projects. 

“Over the course of his service, Todd has consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to conserving and enhancing natural habitats, fostering meaningful partnerships, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our region’s ecosystems,” wrote Zach Byram, district manager of the Clear Creek Conservation District, in his nomination letter for Caltrider. “Todd’s work with private landowners is particularly commendable. He understands that the stewardship of vital habitats often depends on the active participation of those who own and manage the land.”

In recent years, Caltrider has implemented or organized funding for numerous habitat improvement projects in the Sheridan Region including converting several miles of fencing to wildlife-friendly standards to facilitate easier movement for wildlife, assisting with construction of dozens of beaver dam analogs to improve riparian habitat and working cooperatively with private landowners to develop seed mixes that improve wildlife habitat and forage on cropland. 

He has also been involved in the years-long, multi-agency effort to identify and control invasive plants and protect public and private rangeland in northeast Wyoming. He spearheaded a February 2025 aerial sagebrush seeding project to jumpstart sagebrush and native plant regeneration after the 2024 House Draw Fire outside Buffalo and planned and led a large-scale conifer removal project on the Bighorn National Forest in summer 2025 to improve riparian areas and associated wet meadows and boost aspen regeneration. 

“Todd’s ability to communicate complex ecological concepts in accessible terms has been instrumental in helping landowners make informed decisions about habitat management,” said Byram. “He excels at designing customized habitat improvement plans, securing funding and resources, and ensuring that projects are both practical and effective. Todd’s follow-through and ongoing support have led to successful, sustainable projects that benefit both wildlife and landowners.”