GILLETTE (WNE) — The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is asking the public to comment on a draft version of Wyoming’s 2027 State Wildlife Action Plan, also known as SWAP. Public comment will be accepted through July 27.
And from 1-2 p.m. June 30, a virtual webinar will be held to provide opportunities for public comment and discussion.
Wyoming’s SWAP provides a statewide roadmap for conserving species that warrant additional attention, or Species of Greatest Conservation Need.
Each year, SWAP unlocks approximately $500,000 in federal funds each year through the State Wildlife Grants program, which are matched by the state and partnering organizations. Wyoming updates its SWAP at least every 10 years to ensure this roadmap reflects the most up-to-date science and environmental conditions.
“The goal of the SWAP is to identify species and habitats before they are at risk,” Game and Fish Director Angi Bruce said in a press release. “This process allows us to create proactive strategies that conserve critical habitat and wildlife populations.”
The SWAP reflects engagement from more than 100 experts from more than 20 organizations. Through this collaboration, the SWAP identifies voluntary, non-regulatory and priority actions the state can pursue. Each state develops and maintains a SWAP, which contributes to a nation-wide strategy for conserving at-risk species and habitats.
Following the public comment period, the SWAP will be presented to the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission this fall. Once approved by the Commission, Game and Fish will submit the plan to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for final approval. The SWAP will be finalized in 2027.
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