AGP Executive Report

Wildfire & outdoor safety: Wyoming is seeing rising wildfire activity, with 21 wildfire starts reported this week and fire restrictions now in place across 21 of 23 counties—so hunters and campers should double-check local rules before heading out. Colorado River impacts: The federal government released finalized Colorado River operating guidelines, ordering mandatory water cutbacks for California, Arizona, and Nevada as Lake Mead and Lake Powell hit record lows—Utah is spared from mandatory cuts, but the basin-wide squeeze is still a big deal for the West’s travel and water-dependent recreation. Roadless rule fight: USDA moves to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, a change that could open more road building and logging across about 45 million acres, including roadless areas in Wyoming—raising concerns for wildlife habitat and quiet recreation. Cheatgrass control: Wyoming Game and Fish and partners plan aerial herbicide treatments to reduce cheatgrass and lower wildfire risk while helping native plants recover across multiple counties. Local travel-friendly updates: Jackson Hole’s late-summer-to-fall shift is bringing fewer crowds and more wildlife, while Wyoming’s Pioneer Museum is expanding its collection and JANM’s renovated pavilion is set to reopen in 2027.

Roadless Rule Fight (Wyoming public lands): The USDA has moved to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, a change that could open about 3.3 million acres of roadless national forest in Wyoming to more road building and timber activity, with a public comment period running through Sept. 21. Wildfire & access debate: Supporters say the rollback helps reduce wildfire risk and gives local managers more flexibility; opponents warn it could harm wildlife habitat and quiet recreation like hunting, fishing, riding, skiing, and backpacking. Local travel safety (Sheridan): WYDOT will install lane delineators at key Coffeen Avenue intersections starting Aug. 23 at night, with minor lane shifts and temporary closures. School-bus driving reminder (Laramie County): Officials warn drivers to stop for buses with flashing lights and stop signs, with citations up to $750. Outdoors update (Bear & wildlife): Game and Fish relocated a young black bear in Gillette amid drought-driven wildlife movement, and a rare broad-winged hawk was treated at the Teton Raptor Center after being found on the University of Wyoming campus. Road-trip controversy: A new “Great American Road Trip” reality series tied to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is drawing scrutiny over sponsor funding and its pitch to travel despite high gas prices.

Roadless Rule Fight: The USDA has published a final proposal to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule, opening more national forest acres to roads and logging; Wyoming is among the states with large roadless areas, and a public comment period runs through Sept. 21. Local Road Safety: WYDOT will install lane delineators at signalized intersections on Coffeen Avenue in Sheridan, with night work starting Aug. 23, to reduce risky left-turn conflicts. School Bus Warning: Laramie County officials remind drivers that when school buses stop with lights and stop signs out, everyone must stop—violations can bring citations up to $750. Public Lands & Grazing: A federal judge is set to decide whether to block cattle grazing in grizzly-bear areas of the Gros Ventre Range near Cheyenne, as ranchers push for access and watchdogs argue permits and impacts are outdated. Wyoming Outdoor Updates: A new 20-year grassland stewardship agreement between the Forest Service and Thunder Basin Grazing Association targets restoration and safer fuels across northeast Wyoming. Travel Planning: United Airlines will add a new Boston-to-Jackson Hole nonstop ski route for select weekends in winter 2027, with lift-ticket and demo perks for passengers. Community Calendar: Centennial marks 150 years with a Sept. 12 Sesquicentennial Celebration featuring a downtown parade, museum activities, and Smokey Bear wildfire-prevention programming.

Behavioral Health Access: Beartooth Billings Clinic is partnering with Cody Regional Health to expand in-person psychiatric care in Red Lodge, aiming to reduce the need for patients to travel for specialty help. Trail Time at High Elevation: Runners took on the Med Bow Rail Trail marathon/half marathon, with the full route running the rail corridor between Pelton Creek and Dry Park and looping at Lake Owen. Road-Trip Inspiration: A new 10-day Wyoming itinerary maps out a Cheyenne-to-Shoshone National Forest drive with stops across two national parks, plus hot springs and classic western stops. Wildlife & Public Lands: Wyoming Game and Fish plans cheatgrass treatments across multiple counties to cut wildfire risk and help native plants recover, while also noting bears are traveling widely due to drought. Community & Family Travel Notes: A Lovell police report highlights a missing-child scare resolved quickly, and a Cheyenne-area story points to ongoing local events and visitor-friendly updates. Outdoor Tech for Public Comment: An onX app called Public Land Comment Hub helps people submit feedback to federal land agencies during rule-change periods.

Public Lands & Wildfire Policy: The USDA has proposed fully rescinding the 2001 Roadless Rule, a protection covering about 45 million acres of national forest, arguing it blocks wildfire prevention and forest health work—while environmental groups warn it could increase risk and open more land to roads and logging. Wyoming Wildlife & Habitat: Wyoming Game and Fish is treating cheatgrass with aerial herbicide across multiple counties to cut wildfire risk and help native plants recover, and it also relocated a black bear from near an elementary school in Gillette after drought-driven food shortages pushed bears into developed areas. Local Travel Disruption: Wyoming 296 remains limited to one lane over the Dead Indian Creek bridge near Cody due to flood scour damage, with traffic signals controlling delays. Outdoor Recreation Safety: A Yellowstone bison clip is sparking reminders to keep distance—tourists were reported about three feet from the animal. Community & Tourism: Rocky Mountain Snacks in Pine Bluffs says it plans to grow and offer tours, aiming to bring jobs and visitors back to the area. Wyoming Politics (Travelers’ Timing): Unofficial results from Wyoming’s primary are already shaping November plans, with candidates shifting to statewide campaigning.

Public Lands & Forests: The Trump administration moved to repeal the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, a protection covering about 44 million acres, arguing it blocks wildfire-risk and forest-health work—while critics warn it could mean more roads and logging in some of the most intact national forest areas. Grand Targhee Update: In Wyoming’s backyard, the Forest Service says there’s no timeline yet for a final Record of Decision on Grand Targhee Resort’s expansion as it works through objections. Water & Outdoor Travel: A Wyoming town in the Encampment area is investing in forest restoration to protect drinking water supplies tied to forested watersheds. Wildlife & Hiking Safety: A new push would make it easier for states to authorize killing grizzly bears in the Lower 48, stripping Endangered Species Act protections in parts of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. Local Travel Notes: University of Wyoming move-in will bring traffic and temporary road closures in Laramie Aug. 21–22. Family Fun in Wyoming: Casper’s “Paws with a Purpose” fundraiser supports service-dog scholarships, and a guide highlights Wyoming’s best natural water slides for summer hikes.

Public Lands & Wildfire Policy: The Trump administration proposed fully rescinding the 2001 “roadless rule,” which protects about 45 million acres of national forest from new roads and most logging—arguing it blocks wildfire risk-reduction work, while conservation groups warn it could fragment habitat and open largely untouched areas. Wyoming Outdoors Spotlight: A new ranking says Wyoming is America’s most outdoorsy state in 2026, citing access to trails and national parks beyond Yellowstone and the Tetons. Wildlife & Recreation Safety: Wyoming Game and Fish relocated a sub-adult black bear from Gillette after drought pushed bears into wider search patterns; officials urge fast reporting of bear sightings near homes. Local Travel Notes: Enterprise’s Aug. 14–15 Show & Shine drew about 230 entries despite smoky skies and light rain. Road Conditions & Crashes: Teton Pass saw crash-related disruption and Wyoming Highway Patrol reported a deadly motorcycle crash near Kemmerer, with driver inattention under review. Gas Watch: Carbon County’s lowest midgrade hit $4.04 (week ending Aug. 8), with other Wyoming counties also seeing reported dips.

Road & Safety Updates: Teton Pass (WY22) shut down both directions near milepost 7 after a multi-vehicle crash; WYDOT reported no reopening estimate at first, but it later reopened early Tuesday morning. Fatal Crash Details: On the North Fork Highway, a severe multi-vehicle motorcycle crash left one rider dead (no helmet) and sent others for emergency care, with traffic diversions and long cleanup impacts. Wildfire Risk Policy: The USDA/Forest Service moved to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule nationwide, aiming to restore local forest management authority to reduce wildfire risk. Local Tourism & Funding: Sweetwater County commissioners will hear a feasibility study for the Rock Springs Youth Home and a presentation on reauthorizing a 2% lodging tax for travel and tourism. Gas Watch: Midgrade prices hit a low of $4.43/gal in Lincoln County (week ending Aug. 8), with statewide averages easing slightly. Wyoming Spirits: Wyoming Whiskey announced a new bourbon release tied to America’s 250th birthday. Community Events: End of Summer Jamboree raised $4,095 for Special Olympics Wyoming, and Casper hosted a combined back-to-school bash with food, supplies, and family resources.

Colorado River Drought: Lake Powell hit a record low, edging toward the point where hydropower turbines can’t generate—another reminder that Wyoming’s water and recreation plans are tied to the wider basin. Local Government & Tourism: Sweetwater County commissioners will hear a feasibility study for the Rock Springs Youth Home and also review a proposed 2% lodging tax reauthorization tied to tourism funding. Wildlife & Outdoor Safety: Sheridan County officials report increased black bear conflicts as bears enter hyperphagia; Game and Fish says responses range from securing attractants to hazing and, in some cases, removal. Roads & Travel Disruptions: WYDOT bridge work on I-80 near the Green River Tunnels brings single-lane closures and reduced speeds, with an on-ramp closure extending through late October. Community Events: Casper’s Back to School Bash and Parents as Teachers Roll and Read joined forces for free food, supplies, and family services, while Sheridan-area groups and local businesses also ran fundraising and giveaway efforts for students. Fuel Watch: GasBuddy price reports show the lowest diesel and regular gas deals vary by county week ending Aug. 8, with some spots notably cheaper than the statewide average.

Colorado River Water Crunch: Lake Powell hit a record-low level, dropping to 3,519.91 feet and putting Colorado River water, hydropower, and recreation on edge for millions across seven states. Wyoming Outdoor Access: Hunters heading to the Bear River Divide Hunter Management Area near Evanston need a free permission slip and vehicle pass before fall seasons. Wildlife & Safety: Wyoming Game and Fish is investigating bear activity after reports tied to increased bear encounters, just as hunting season nears. Road Work for Travelers: Exeter will limit traffic to one lane on Wyoming Avenue starting Aug. 17 for an 18-month sewer improvement project, with wider plans for paving, sidewalks, and lighting. Campus Welcome: Western Wyoming College kicked off the new school year with a full slate of events for students and staff. Local Heritage: Rock Springs unveiled a commemorative marker for America’s 250th anniversary, with DAR support and museum tours encouraged. Travel-Adjacent Note: A Jackson Hole Marathon runner is set to finish a 50-marathon, 50-state challenge this fall, tying Wyoming travel to a fundraising cause.

Colorado River Crisis for Travelers: Lake Powell hit a record-low elevation (3,519.91 feet) as drought and heat keep draining the reservoir, threatening hydropower and already forcing tourism changes like boat ramp closures and marinas moving to deeper water. Outdoor Season Prep: Wyoming hunters are being reminded to plan for chronic wasting disease (CWD) focus areas near Jackson and to watch for increased bear activity as archery season approaches. Wyoming Civic & Heritage: Gov. Mark Gordon is urging residents to review board and commission vacancies and apply to serve, while Sweetwater County’s Rock Springs and Green River unveiled DAR commemorative markers tied to America’s 250th anniversary. Getting There (Winter Travel): United Airlines plans a seasonal nonstop from Boston to Jackson Hole for winter 2026–27, a boost for ski travelers. Local Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports Sheridan County’s lowest midgrade price at $4.19/gallon for the week ending Aug. 8. Ranching Apprenticeship: A new agrarian program is pairing young ranching apprentices with Western ranches as low profits and aging operators push land-transfer worries.

Wyoming Outdoors & Wildlife: WGFD is urging hunters and other fall recreationists to plan for chronic wasting disease (CWD) and heightened bear activity as archery season approaches, with Jackson-area elk hunt areas again flagged for CWD focus and mandatory sampling in certain zones. Bear Safety on the Ground: A surprise defensive bear encounter on Teton Pass sent a hiker to the hospital; WGFD and the Forest Service responded, and the trail was temporarily closed while investigators looked for the bear. Public Lands & Learning: Eastern Wyoming College’s Archaeology Field School is underway, giving students hands-on excavation experience at the POWARS II site near Sunrise. Tourism & Getting There: United Airlines plans a seasonal nonstop winter route from Boston to Jackson Hole, aiming to make Wyoming’s ski trips easier for New England travelers. Local Events: Pittston’s 43rd Annual Tomato Festival parade details are set, including lineup staging times and route changes for the bridge opening. Travel Costs Watch: GasBuddy reports Sweetwater County midgrade prices dipping to $4.09/gal for the week ending Aug. 8.

Air Travel & Ski Access: United Airlines plans its first-ever nonstop winter flight from Boston to Jackson Hole, running Saturdays Feb. 13–Mar. 20, 2027—great news for Wyoming ski trips. Wildlife Safety: WGFD investigated a bear encounter on Teton Pass; a hiker used bear spray and was treated after a defensive encounter involving a presumed black bear sow and cub(s), with the History Trail temporarily closed. Bear-Conflict Management: Wyoming Game and Fish confirmed DNA linking a July bear incident to a later case and says a black bear was lethally removed after repeated campsite behavior on the Bighorn National Forest. Public Lands & Conservation Debate: A new push would shift grizzly bear management toward states, loosening federal protections under the Endangered Species Act—sparking major concern for Wyoming and Yellowstone-area bears. Tourism & Learning: Eastern Wyoming College’s Archaeology Field School wrapped up another hands-on season excavating at the POWARS II site near Sunrise. Community Events: Logan Ranch in Tie Siding hosts the Broken Bandit Wild Woo Fest Aug. 21–22, with camping and proceeds supporting the Broken Bandit Wildlife Center. Local Travel Economy: Reading & Northern Railroad reported a record first-half 2026 volume, signaling strong rail activity that supports regional freight and passenger service.

Wildlife Safety on the Trail: A woman hiking on Teton Pass was injured in a surprise defensive encounter with a presumed black bear sow and cubs; she used bear spray, walked back to the trailhead, and Wyoming Game and Fish and the U.S. Forest Service closed the History Trail area while investigating. Bear Encounters in Campgrounds: Another bear issue is getting attention after a black bear that repeatedly approached occupied tents on the Bighorn National Forest was lethally removed, with DNA matching tied to the earlier tent incident. Road Trip Planning for Drivers: WYDOT and Wyoming Game and Fish are building wildlife crossings on a 30-mile stretch of US-189 near Kemmerer—aiming to cut wildlife-vehicle crashes—with deer fencing plus underpasses and an overpass targeted for completion in October 2027. Outdoor Events: Logan Ranch in Tie Siding hosts the Broken Bandit Wild Woo Fest (Aug. 21–22) to raise funds for The Broken Bandit Wildlife Center, with live music and optional on-site camping. Local Politics (Travelers Take Note): With the Aug. 18 primary approaching, gubernatorial candidate Eric Barlow highlighted service, rural healthcare, water infrastructure, and local control during a Laramie visit. Community & Culture: Cheyenne’s Hell on Wheels Rodeo and Chuck Wagon Dinner grew out of the Frontier Days cancellation, keeping a summer rodeo draw alive for visitors.

Wildlife Safety on US-189: WYDOT and Wyoming Game and Fish are building wildlife crossings near Kemmerer to cut wildlife-vehicle crashes on a 30-mile stretch, with deer fencing plus underpasses and an overpass planned for completion in October 2027. Road Closures From Flooding: Laramie County Emergency Management reports washouts and flooding damage with temporary closures on Road 154 segments; detours are urged and closures are expected to last into early next week. New Winter Flight to Jackson Hole: United will launch nonstop Boston–Jackson Hole service for the 2026-27 ski season (Feb. 13–Mar. 20), a boost for winter travelers heading to Wyoming’s slopes. Cheyenne Frontier Days Spark: With Frontier Days canceled, Cheyenne’s Hell on Wheels Rodeo and Chuck Wagon Dinner was created during the pandemic and is now in its seventh year, keeping rodeo tourism alive. Bear Safety Reminder (Teton Pass): A bear attack on the History Trail has WGFD urging hikers to carry bear spray, store food properly, and follow Bear Wise guidance as late-summer bear activity rises. Laramie School Sports: UW soccer opened the season with a 1-0 win over Drake, giving fans another reason to plan a Wyoming game-day trip.

Bear Safety in Jackson: Wyoming Game and Fish reports a late-summer bear attack on Teton Pass; Bear Wise urges carrying bear spray, making noise in groups, using bear boxes, and keeping food and garbage secured. Wildfire Tragedy: Two pilots killed in Utah’s Widemouth 2 Fire were identified; Utah ordered flags to half-staff as the wildland firefighting community mourns. Gas Watch (Wyoming): GasBuddy price checks show some of the lowest regular and midgrade prices in parts of the state, including Teton and Sheridan County updates for the week ending Aug. 8. Downtown Torrington Mural: A community-funded “front door” mural begins this weekend on the Vistabeam building, aiming to boost Main Street tourism and local pride. Wyoming Fossils & Climate: New research using Wyoming fossils finds ancient forests opened up and stayed stressed for over 100,000 years after extreme warming—an ecosystem warning for today’s travelers and outdoor plans. Tourism Risk for Park Gateways: A national analysis highlights how extreme weather and shifting park boundaries can threaten small businesses near major parks. Cheyenne Mountain “Apocalypse” Tale: A humorous travel-style story places a legendary rider in Cheyenne Mountain and reroutes him to Denver’s airport.