• G&F allowed to maintain through October 2028
Elk feedground operations will continue in Greys River and the Bondurant area, following a signed record of decision reported by the Bridger-Teton National Forest April 16.
The B-T is publishing the final environmental impact statement in the federal register for the feedgrounds at Dell Creek in the Bondurant area and Forest Park in Greys River.
The decision allows the Wyoming Game and Fish to use the National Forest System land for wildlife management programs related to winter feeding of elk.
In a Thursday report released the B-T, noted the reason for the decision. “The project helps keep elk away from winter cattle feeding areas, which lowers the risk of brucellosis and reduces damage to cattle operations,” a new release stated.
“The final environmental impact statement analyzes Wyoming Game and Fish Commission’s proposed winter elk management activities at the Dell Creek and Forest Park feedgrounds in Sublette and Lincoln counties and determines if there are potential impacts to National Forest System lands.”
The decision is directed at finding a balance between agriculture and wildlife management.
“We understand that elk feedgrounds are a contentious issue in western Wyoming, and we are working to balance agricultural protection and wildlife health,” said acting Forest Supervisor Bekee Hotze. “This decision allows use of the feedgrounds until October 2028, streamlining the process by eliminating yearly permit renewals and creates an opportunity to bring all seven feedgrounds under one comprehensive NEPA analysis. It also supports the state’s efforts to manage disease, strengthens the hunting industry, and helps protect cattle that supply food for Americans.”
