AGP Executive Report

Railroad Tourism Spotlight: Union Pacific’s Big Boy 4014 rolled into Owego, New York, drawing thousands for the “Whistle Stop” as part of the America 250 steam tour that began in Cheyenne, Wyoming—an easy excuse to plan a rail-themed day trip and snap photos along the route. Northern Lights Watch: NOAA is forecasting a G1 aurora chance for Saturday night into early Sunday, with the best odds along the U.S.-Canadian border—great timing for Wyoming travelers who love dark-sky nights. Outdoor Safety & Travel Advisories: Wyoming officials are warning summer drivers about high winds (especially for RVs and trailers), and WYDOT is also flagging strong winds on interstates—check conditions before you head out. Family-Friendly Summer Plans: Pinedale’s Soundcheck Summer Music Series returns for its 19th year with five free concerts at American Legion Park, plus free two-step/country dance lessons before shows. Rural Funding: The USDA/Forest Service is distributing $52M+ nationwide for rural emergency services, schools, and roads; Wyoming gets $2.4M across five counties. Wildlife & Land Use: A federal lease sale in Colorado could affect elk habitat that extends into southern Wyoming, raising concerns for migration and dark-sky tourism near Dinosaur National Monument. Local Law & Travel Disruption: A Cheyenne man was arrested after a pursuit through Albany County, and Wyoming’s lodging tax compliance remains a concern as visitors plan summer stays.

Family Wellbeing Update: Wyoming climbed to 12th in child and family wellbeing in the Annie E. Casey Foundation report, up from 23rd last year, but leaders still flag about 12,000 kids in poverty and a 25% housing-cost burden. Yellowstone Visitor Surge: Yellowstone logged a record-busy May with 570,272 visits (+20% vs. May 2021), and Independence Day weekend offers free admission for Wyoming residents—though the parks face a big maintenance backlog. Big Boy Steam Tour: Union Pacific’s Big Boy 4014 is drawing huge crowds on its America 250 East Coast run, with Wyoming readers likely to follow the spectacle and rail history as it rolls through the region. Road & Travel Safety: WYDOT and other agencies are warning about strong winds for drivers, while Wyoming officials also urge summer travelers—especially RVs and trailers—to plan ahead. Casper Tourism Hit: The Historic Trails Center in Casper is closed for summer renovations, reopening July 27. Local Events: This weekend’s Casper CNFR is expected to bring thousands of visitors and full hotel bookings. Outdoor Conditions: Drought and fire concerns are rising in Wyoming’s Bighorn Basin, with green-up delayed and fire season expected to start early.

Railroad Spotlight: Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 is making a rare East Coast stop in Owego today, with heavy crowds expected and specific parking/road closures in place around the whistle-stop route. Travel Safety (Wind): Wyoming State Parks and WYDOT are urging summer travelers to be “wind aware,” warning that strong gusts on I-25, I-80 and U.S. 287 can be dangerous for RVs, trailers, rooftop cargo and other high-profile setups. Fire Outlook: Park County officials say drought conditions are worsening fire risk across the Greater Yellowstone area, with calls for tighter preparedness as above-normal fire potential looms. Park & Water Risk: Yellowstone officials report a 41-year-old man found floating in Yellowstone Lake, with reminders that cold water and wind-driven waves make boating and kayaking hazardous. Local Roads & Riders: Jackson Hole Fire/EMS says it’s responding to multiple e-bike crashes with injuries, urging riders and drivers to follow the rules of the road and wear helmets. Wildlife Myth Check: Wyoming wolf biologists push back on “superwolf” claims, noting Wyoming wolves may be heavier but are still the same species. Rodeo Travel: Sixteen Montana State athletes are headed to Casper for the College National Finals Rodeo June 14–20 at the Ford Wyoming Center.

Road-Trip Safety: Wyoming State Parks and WYDOT are urging travelers to stay wind-aware as strong gusts can make campers, trailers, boats, and rooftop gear risky on I-25, I-80, and U.S. 287—check 511, secure loads, and plan for possible restrictions. Local Travel Alerts: WYDOT also warned drivers about strong winds on the interstate, and Beartooth Highway is closed at the WY/MT line due to hazardous snow and ice. Active Travel & Safety: Jackson Hole Fire/EMS reports multiple e-bike crashes with injuries, many at intersections, and is pushing riders and drivers to follow the rules of the road and wear helmets. Wyoming Events: This weekend (June 12–14) includes the Cheyenne Celtic Festival & Highland Games, Cody Nite Rodeo, and a free kid fishing day in Rock Springs, plus outdoor movies and plein air art in Jackson. Tourism Spotlight: Hell’s Half Acre reopened May 8 with new access features like an accessible boardwalk and interpretive signage. Big-Crowd Note: Yellowstone hit a record-breaking May visitation, with Grand Teton announcing major tourism investment.

Wildfire Response: A fast-moving South Fork Fire burned about 9,000 acres in Nebraska near Fort Robinson State Park, prompting evacuation orders and a Nebraska Highway 20 closure; Wyoming’s National Weather Service flagged the area under a Red Flag warning, while Gov. Jim Pillen ordered National Guard help and the U.S. Forest Service sent assistance. Road & Pedestrian Updates: In Campbell County, WYDOT plans seasonal paving starting the week of June 22 (I-90 and WYO 59 routes), with lane closures and detours; in Rawlins, crews begin the second phase of a US 287 Bypass/Higley Boulevard pedestrian underpass, closing a corridor from June 15 through late July. Outdoor & Visitor Safety: Beartooth Highway closed at the Montana-Wyoming border due to snow, with travelers routed via WY 296 (Chief Joseph Scenic Bypass) to reach Cooke City and Yellowstone’s northeast entrance. Community & Culture: The Teton County Library in Jackson hosts a free Japanese taiko drumming show (Peaceful Forest) on June 17. Travel Inspiration: A feature highlights Clyde Butcher’s lifelong mission to celebrate America’s landscapes as part of the nation’s 250th story.

Road & Construction Updates: WYDOT seasonal paving starts in Campbell County (I-90 and WYO 59) with lane closures and minimal delays expected through July 9, and Rawlins crews begin the second phase of the US 287 Bypass/Higley pedestrian underpass, closing a corridor segment from June 15 into late July. Weather & Pass Closures: Beartooth Highway is closed at the Montana-Wyoming border due to heavy snow, with travelers routed via WYO 296 (Chief Joseph Scenic Bypass) to reach Cooke City and Yellowstone’s northeast entrance. Wildlife & Safety: A wildlife-crossings briefing urges continued federal funding, highlighting how crossings can cut crashes and protect migratory animals. Wildlife Encounters: Laramie police report a wandering bull moose near Harrison and Filmore, reminding visitors to keep distance. Travel Planning Perks: Hilton launches “Undergraduate by Hilton” for college-town trips, and Wyoming’s WYFly Passport Program invites pilots and drivers to collect stamps at public-use airports for prizes. Culture & History: Tribes and the National Park Service gear up for the Battle of Greasy Grass anniversary with multiple events, and Plains Day in Plains draws big crowds with 5K, vendors, and family activities.

Snowmobile Safety & Permits: Two fatal snowmobile trips in four days were guided by Teton Tour Company, a Jackson Hole outfitter tied to a newly issued six-year Bridger-Teton National Forest permit—raising fresh questions about winter guest safety. Road Work for Travelers: Bridger-Teton National Forest crews begin maintenance on Greys River Road (milepost 12), with pothole repairs, drainage work, and intermittent delays expected through July 2. Wildfire Watch: Fire Danger remains high across eastern Wyoming, with multiple Red Flag Warnings and dry, windy conditions that can spread grassland fires fast. Yellowstone Tourism: Yellowstone hit a new May visitation record with 570,272 recreation visits, and officials urge summer travelers to plan ahead. Stargazing Tourism Push: Colorado is expanding DarkSky-certified destinations and linking them with a new stargazing trail map to help visitors find the darkest spots. Rare Earths Timeline: Rare Element Resources says Bear Lodge permitting is on track for early 2028 completion, though demo plant operations face delays from equipment and process changes. Local Culture & Visitors: Casper sandcastles are drawing attention, and Fort Benton unveiled a new mural tied to the 1904 “World Basket Ball Champions” story—both aimed at boosting the visitor experience.

Yellowstone Tourism: Yellowstone National Park hit a new May visitation record with 570,272 recreation visits, up 1% from last year, and officials say summer travelers should plan ahead and use park travel tools. Wildfire Watch: Fire danger stays high across Wyoming, with multiple Red Flag Warnings in eastern counties and active fires; officials urge caution as dry conditions and winds can spread flames fast. Roadless Rule Fight: A proposed Mike Lee amendment would nullify the National Forest Roadless Rule nationwide, potentially removing protections on about 45 million acres—an issue that could affect public land access for hikers and outdoor users. Healthcare Access in Gillette: Campbell County Health says it’s evaluating how to absorb care after Hoskinson Health and Wellness Clinic plans to close July 31, meaning some patients may need to travel for services. Local Travel Planning (Weather): A cold front is bringing scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms, plus gusty winds and possible snow showers above 8,000 feet—watch forecasts before heading out. Fuel Prices: GasBuddy reports Wyoming premium and diesel prices around late May, with some counties seeing single-station lows (useful for road-trip budgeting).

Public Safety: Authorities are asking drivers to avoid the Baggs area after reports of shots fired triggered a “critical incident” response involving multiple Colorado agencies and Wyoming Highway Patrol, with road closures in place. Wildlife & Visitor Safety: In Jackson, a young black bear climbed into Town Square’s trees, was safely immobilized, and relocated to national forest land near Hoback. Road & Trail Updates: WYDOT crews are continuing Flat Creek Bridge work near Jackson, with added deck and transition tasks pushing a tentative reopening to June 16; meanwhile, nighttime thermoplastic marking work is set for parts of US 26/89/189/191 and Broadway Avenue. Travel Planning Tips: A reminder for Wyoming road trips—Google Maps backroads can be outdated; zoom in on satellite view before you commit. Gas Watch: Fuel prices vary across Wyoming counties, with recent lowest-reported deals including diesel in Park County and premium in Teton County, helpful for travelers timing long drives. Weather: Unsettled conditions are expected this week, with showers and storms possible and potential travel impacts from ponding.

Public Safety: Wyoming Highway Patrol and multiple Colorado agencies are assisting with a “critical incident” after reports of shots fired near Baggs; authorities urge drivers to avoid Highway 789 between I-80 and Baggs due to road closures. Wildlife & Outdoor Access: A young black bear was spotted in Jackson’s Town Square, safely captured, and relocated to national forest land near Hoback. Road Work for Travelers: WYDOT crews continue Flat Creek Bridge work near Jackson with a new completion target around June 16, plus nighttime thermoplastic marking starting Monday (9 p.m.–6 a.m.) that may bring lane closures. Local Tourism & Events: Concerts in the Park returns with a local duo at Bunning Park, and Jackson Hole-area visitors can also look ahead to more summer programming. Cost of Getting Around: GasBuddy reports Wyoming midgrade prices averaging about $4.75 statewide for the week ending May 30, with some county lows noted. Wildfire/Prescribed Fire Updates: Crews are battling new fires in eastern Wyoming counties while prescribed burns continue in Bridger-Teton National Forest.

Summer Solstice Mood: A Wyoming-area column captures how sunlight lifts spirits ahead of June 21, with one local tying seasonal affective disorder to daily “sun charging.” Grand Teton Travel Inspiration: A new travel diary pairs “Jackson” and “Wide Open Spaces” with a Jackson Hole base for Tetons and Yellowstone adventures, including surprise first-class upgrades. Wyoming Gas Watch: Teton County’s lowest regular hit $4.67 (week ending May 30), while other counties reported standout lows across premium and diesel—useful for road-trip planning. Yellowstone Safety Reminder: A tourist allegedly flew a drone dangerously close to grizzly bears in Yellowstone, stressing rules that keep wildlife stress-free. Northern Lights Alert: NOAA forecasts a strong aurora chance for up to 20 states on June 8–9, with tips for phone photography. Outdoor Season Readiness: Wyoming wildfire mitigation updates note thinning and prescribed burns can reduce future fire severity, even as experts watch for dry conditions. Tech for Park Fans: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024’s July 4 U.S. update adds Yellowstone and Grand Teton among many national parks.

Northern Lights Watch: NOAA is forecasting a strong G3 geomagnetic storm for Monday–Tuesday, with aurora chances across up to 20 states—Wyoming skywatchers should plan for clear viewing and phone-friendly tips. Wildlife & Visitor Safety: Yellowstone officials are dealing with reports of a tourist illegally flying a drone near grizzly bears, stressing that uncrewed aircraft can distress wildlife. Road Safety: A Rathdrum, Idaho teen died after a single-vehicle crash on SH41 at Wyoming Avenue; investigators say alcohol/drugs weren’t believed to be factors. Fuel Watch (Wyoming): GasBuddy reports the week ending May 30 showed some of the lowest prices in the state for drivers—E85 at $3.75 in Sweetwater County, plus multiple diesel and premium lows across counties. Outdoor Recreation & Community: Cheyenne’s governor candidates met at Little America for a chamber panel on healthcare, rural youth retention, military growth, and data centers; meanwhile, Wyoming’s wildfire response coordination got a tabletop exercise boost.

Wildlife & Rewilding: A National Geographic Traveller feature spotlights how rewilding is bringing biodiversity back, using Costa Rica’s Tapir Valley Nature Reserve as a model for nature recovery that could inspire Wyoming visitors to seek out thriving habitat. Marathon Buzz: Steamtown Marathon registrations are rising ahead of the Oct. 11 race, with organizers pointing to a faster 2025 course and renewed interest in marathon running. Safety on the Trail: A Bighorn National Forest hiker’s disappearance ended tragically after his body was found; his last text described reaching the summit but feeling fatigued, a sobering reminder for Wyoming hikers to plan carefully. Homelessness & Tourism Lessons: A Colorado nonprofit street outreach model in Fort Collins is being discussed as a potential playbook for other tourist-heavy communities dealing with homelessness impacts. Fuel Watch (Wyoming): GasBuddy reports show Wyoming prices easing in late May, including some of the week’s lowest diesel and regular deals across counties like Sheridan, Fremont, Sweetwater, Uinta, Converse, Lincoln, and Weston. Wildfire Readiness: Wyoming National Guard partners with state forestry and emergency agencies in a tabletop exercise to tighten wildfire response coordination. Birding Tourism: Jackson Hole Birding Festival is back for a second year, drawing visitors for tours and talks tied to local habitat and prescribed burn impacts. Rodeo Weekend: Hell on Wheels Rodeo returns to Laramie County’s Archer complex for its seventh year starting June 5. Severe Weather Alert: Forecasters warn of a weekend storm threat across the region, including possible strong winds and hail, with impacts expected for travel. Road Safety Reminder: Wyoming Highway Patrol highlights “Secure Your Load Day” on June 6 to prevent cargo from falling onto highways.

Wildfire readiness: The Wyoming National Guard held a wildfire tabletop exercise in Cheyenne with state forestry and homeland security partners, focusing on roles, communications, and aviation support before incidents hit. Fire season warning: Experts say conditions are lining up for an intense wildfire season as historic snowpack lows and dry fuels raise risk across the West. Outdoor events for travelers: Hell on Wheels Rodeo returns to Laramie County’s Archer complex for its seventh year, and Rawlins marks National Trails Day with a Continental Divide Trail cleanup on June 6. Birding tourism: Jackson Hole’s birding festival is drawing visitors with tours and talks, including hikes tied to how prescribed burns shape local wildlife. Road-trip safety: “Secure Your Load Day” urges Wyoming drivers to strap down cargo to prevent debris from causing crashes. Gas watch: Fremont County’s lowest reported premium gas hit $5.09/gallon for the week ending May 30. Wildlife & land use: A major Colorado oil-and-gas lease sale could affect elk migration habitat that extends into southern Wyoming, raising dark-sky and tourism concerns. Cheyenne politics: Wyoming gubernatorial candidates met at the Little America Hotel to discuss rural healthcare, keeping youth in-state, and data centers.

Road & Safety: South Dakota DOT is weighing reconstruction plans for US Highway 85 from Spearfish Canyon to the Wyoming line, with added shoulders and curve reroutes—locals are split on safety gains versus impacts to land, wildlife, and forest areas. Severe Weather Watch: A hot weekend with a storm threat is forecast across the region, including possible strong winds and hail that could affect travel on major highways. Cheyenne Events: Hell on Wheels Rodeo returns to Laramie County’s Archer complex for its seventh year, drawing visitors for rodeo action and a chuckwagon dinner. Wildfire Readiness: The Wyoming National Guard joined state and local partners for a tabletop exercise to tighten coordination for wildfire response, including aviation requests and interagency communications. Outdoor Tourism Spotlight: Jackson Hole’s birding festival is building momentum with tours and talks, tapping into the growing birding travel crowd. Wildlife & Hiking Caution: A viral grizzly “moth-eating” hike video is sparking debate about how social-media attention can affect sensitive wildlife habitat. Driver Reminder: “Secure Your Load Day” urges Wyoming drivers to strap down cargo to prevent items from falling onto roads. Trails & Community: Rawlins is hosting a National Trails Day cleanup along the Continental Divide Trail, a big draw for through-hikers. Travel Health Note: Wyoming is among states reporting measles cases, with CDC data showing 2,030 confirmed cases nationwide this year.

Wyoming Wind Wall Rally: Cheyenne drew ranchers and conservationists urging a deeper review of southeast Wyoming’s industrial wind buildout, warning about cumulative impacts on golden eagles, wildlife, ranching, and rural tourism. Colorado River Update: Federal water managers say a 10-year Colorado River operating framework could be imposed by late summer if states can’t agree, with Colorado and Nevada negotiators pushing back on parts of the plan tied to reservoir releases. Wildfire Prep in the West: After a dry winter, UNR researchers are using about $3.5 million to reduce hazardous fuels on roughly 300 acres in eastern Sierra areas near communities. Outdoor & Travel Safety Signals: Wyoming’s measles count has topped 2,000 nationwide for the second straight year, with most cases linked to unvaccinated or unknown vaccination status—an important reminder for travelers and families. Local Wildlife Moment: A Powell couple reported spotting 73 moose in Park and Sheridan counties near Burgess Junction, a sign of spring “green-up” drawing them into open areas. Game & Fish Leadership: Casper region supervisor Brian Olsen is retiring after decades with Wyoming Game and Fish, marking a big change for local outdoor outreach.