With the Governor signing the Executive Order (EO) calling for better forest health and a reduction in wildfire risks in Wyoming, he was essentially calling on better forest management through our state.

This is something that can be achieved through what is known as the “Good Neighbor Authority,”  as it opens the door for the federal government to work with the state government on projects and that ultimately lend themselves to effective forest management.

Our Wyoming State Forester Kelly Norris already has 43 of these projects underway.

I commend the Governor and Norris for coordinating projects that will lead to a better management and use of our forest product where appropriate. All of this started with a directive recently coming from President Trump’s office.

Good chain of command, Good Plan. Let’s go to work!

The next step will require the cooperation of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, (B-T).

With the B-T going through a management plan revision, we’ll need more involvement and cooperation from all parties.

I made a day-run (over and back) to Cheyenne Aug. 1 for the Governor’s signing of the EO. I thought it was important  that Lincoln County should have a presence in the room. We did, the Lincoln County Commission Chief of Staff Stephen Allen was there to read a message from the county commissioners and I was there to shake a few hands and show our support for a project that will definitely help Lincoln County if we fully immerse ourselves in the opportunities that follow the directives coming from the President, Governor and State Forester.

The entire time I was watching and listening to the EO signing program in the Governor’s reception room, I reflected on the work of my good friend and past county commissioner, Jerry Harmon, who for many years pushed for timber harvest programs that would eventually contribute to a better managed forest — less dead timber, better managed roads and fisheries — just a few of the benefits from a management program.

I thought, “Jerry, your work may finally be coming to fruition after all these years.”

The governor could also see the potential as he called on those from the timber industry to speak.

One of the speakers represented a family from Evanston that still worked in the industry, despite the many challenges.

And, I’ll close with this side note. That timber family had brought their son along for the signing. I was impressed, but even more impressed as the governor didn’t leave the room until he visited with the young man.

While it was a small gesture, it was important.

Gov. Gordon took the opportunity to visit with the family and then their son, personally. He presented the young man with a symbolic coin acknowledging all that is good about Wyoming.

I like small moments like that. While the signing was significant to small business and our state’s economy, it’s always a priceless moment to give attention to our youth as the governor did with this family and their son.

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