Wyoming

Wyoming Senate demands Congress hand over federal land, including Grand Teton – WyoFile

Published

1 year ago

February 6, 2025

Wyoming Senate demands Congress hand over federal land, including Grand Teton – WyoFile

The Wyoming Senate narrowly voted Thursday for a resolution demanding that Congress turn over some 30 million federal acres to the state — but only after first defeating the measure and then reconsidering it.

Senate Joint Resolution 2, “Resolution demanding equal footing,” insists that Congress act by October to begin turning over the property. That includes Grand Teton National Park, all or parts of eight national forests, Devils Tower National Monument, the Thunder Basin National Grassland and vast swaths of sagebrush and desert managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

The resolution faces two more votes in the Senate.

The “equal footing” argument behind the resolution proposes that Wyoming is not on a level with midwestern and eastern states. That’s because 46% of Wyoming is federally controlled — owned by all Americans — to the detriment of Wyoming’s sovereignty and economy, lead resolution sponsor Sen. Bob Ide, R-Casper, said.

He spent a considerable portion of the approximately 35-minute debate touting conservative legal theories and the economic benefits of owning the property and underlying minerals. Under state ownership, the land would have generated almost $24 billion in oil and gas revenue since 1921, he said.

“Congress has no authority to not dispose.”
Bob Ide

Sen. Brian Boner, R-Douglas, who chaired the session, called the initial voice vote in favor of Ide’s resolution. But a demand for a head count and roll call revealed the 16-14-1 tally.

The resolution “is deemed indefinitely postponed,” Boner said. GOP Sen. Tim French, a GOP supporter of the resolution from Powell, was excused and absent.

When French reappeared Thursday afternoon, Sen. Ogden Driskill, who originally voted with the majority and against the resolution, called for reconsideration. He and French then made the 16-15 margin in favor. There was no additional debate ahead of the new vote.

Legal theories

The debate offered Ide and others a platform for grievances and explanations of the reasoning behind the resolution. One legal scholar has said those come from a misreading of the Constitution.

After studying legal briefs filed in an unsuccessful attempt by Utah to take the federal land issue straight to the U.S. Supreme Court, Ide said “I’m more convicted that we have a strong case here, and we need to protect our state.”

Congress has the power to dispose of federal property, he said.

Sen. Bob Ide, R-Casper, on the Senate floor during the 2025 session of the Wyoming Legislature. (Mike Vanata/WyoFile)

“If the power given to Congress is to dispose territorial and public lands, then Congress has no authority to not dispose,” he told the Senate. “This is just common sense.

“A continued failure on the part of Congress to fulfill its duty to dispose of the aforementioned lands and resources has resulted in two constitutional violations,” Ide said.

He also fielded a question from Buffalo rancher and Republican Sen. Barry Crago regarding a clause in the Wyoming Constitution that says the state “forever disclaim[s] all right and title to the unappropriated public lands lying within [Wyoming’s] boundaries.”

“I think we may have to deal with our own constitution first,” Crago said.

Ide was undeterred.

“I’ve thoroughly talked to all of the foremost experts on this, too,” he said.

“I’m convinced that this part of our constitution isn’t a problem,” Ide said, after asserting, “We didn’t disclaim sovereignty and jurisdiction.”

Bashing the BLM

Ide also bashed a BLM initiative to put conservation on an equal footing with drilling, mining and other uses on 3.6 million acres in Southwest Wyoming. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum on Monday ordered the Wyoming BLM office to review the Rock Springs Resource Management Plan that Ide referred to and recommend changes by Feb. 18.

“They’re taking 3 million acres out of any human contact,” Ide said of the Rock Springs plan and others like it. Statewide, “our oil and gas leasing has been shut down 87% on federal land since the last administration,” he claimed.

Supporting Ide, industry landman Sen. Bo Biteman, R-Ranchester, said the last four years “should have been a pretty big eye opener [of] what can happen when the feds go crazy and want to close us down.

“They can destroy our economy,” he said. “They can destroy our way of life because of the power they have.”

Sen. Mike Gierau, a Democrat from Jackson, said he’s received more calls and emails about the resolution “than any other subject so far this session.”

The Grand Teton National Park budget is $13 million for base operation and $110 million over the last two years in maintenance and upkeep. The park operates more than 800 buildings and 23 wastewater systems — “millions and millions of dollars in expenses,” Gierau said.

Fees collected “are nowhere near” the expenses, he said. Grand Teton draws 3.2 million visitors annually and is “the bedrock source of our economy.”

“I would suffice to say, at this moment in time, it is the bedrock economic driver for this entire state.” Under Ide’s plan, the state could cede certain properties like Grand Teton back to the American people.

Lauren Heerschap, owner of Brunton International, LLC, spoke for conservationists and said federal lands are “too important to risk with short-sighted and disingenuous takeover proposals.” She called for another reconsideration on second and third readings.

In addition to Ide, Boner, Driskill, French and Biteman, the reconsideration and resolution itself were backed by Sens. Dan Dockstader, R-Afton; Larry Hicks, R-Baggs; Lynn Hutchings, R-Cheyenne; Stacy Jones, R, Rock Springs; John Kolb, R-Rock Springs; Dan Laursen, R-Powell; Troy McKeown, R-Gillette; Laura Taliaferro Pearson, R-Kemmerer; Tim Salazar, R-Riverton; Darin Smith, R-Cheyenne and Cheri Steinmetz, R-Torrington.

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Wyoming

Wyoming Announces 2026 Football Schedule – SweetwaterNOW

Published

7 hours ago

March 10, 2026

Press Room

Wyoming Announces 2026 Football Schedule

Samuel “Tote” Harris. Photo from gowyo.com

LARAMIE — The University of Wyoming and the Mountain West Conference announced the Cowboys’ 2026 football schedule Monday, a slate that opens with the Border War and concludes with back-to-back home games in Laramie.

Wyoming opens the season Sept. 5 on the road against Colorado State in the 118th edition of the Border War. The Cowboys then host Northern Colorado on Sept. 12 in the home opener before traveling to Central Michigan on Sept. 19.

The Cowboys begin Mountain West play Sept. 26 at home against Hawaii in a matchup for the Paniolo Trophy. Wyoming then faces back-to-back road games at North Dakota State on Oct. 3 and San Jose State on Oct. 10.

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Wyoming returns to War Memorial Stadium on Oct. 17 to host conference newcomer Northern Illinois before facing Air Force at home on Oct. 24. The Cowboys will have an open week on Oct. 31.

The Cowboys open November with road games at UNLV on Nov. 7 and at UTEP on Nov. 14, marking Wyoming’s first meeting with the Miners as members of the Mountain West. Wyoming closes conference play by hosting New Mexico on Nov. 21 and wraps up the regular season with a nonconference game against UConn on Nov. 28 in Laramie.

Each Mountain West team will play four home and four road conference games during the 13-week season, which will conclude with the Mountain West Football Championship Game featuring the two teams with the highest conference winning percentages. The championship game date will be announced later.

With the conference schedule set, Mountain West television partners CBS Sports, FOX Sports, and The CW will begin selecting broadcast games, which could include moving some contests to non-Saturday dates. Network assignments and kickoff times will be announced at a later date.

Season ticket renewals for the 2026 Wyoming football season are now available. Fans can renew their tickets online by visiting gowyo.com/tickets and logging into their account.

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Wyoming

Two Champions Crowned as Wyoming Prep Girls Basketball Season Enters Final Week

Published

19 hours ago

March 9, 2026

Press Room

Two Champions Crowned as Wyoming Prep Girls Basketball Season Enters Final Week

The 2026 Wyoming prep girls’ basketball season is nearly done. Two state champions were crowned in Classes 1A and 2A last Saturday. Southeast won the 1A title for the third consecutive season, and Sundance won the 2A title for the first time in eight years. Class 3A and 4A held their regional tournaments, which qualified teams for the state tournament later this week in Casper.

WYOPREPS WEEK 12 GIRLS BASKETBALL STANDINGS 2026

These are the girls’ basketball team records for all games played through March 7, 2026. For all but 16 teams, this is the final record of the season. Those squads will play in the 3A-4A state tournament starting on Thursday in Casper.

1A Northwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Burlington 24-5, 8-0

Riverside 14-10, 6-2

Dubois 11-10, 4-4

St. Stephens 3-16, 1-7

Meeteetse 1-20, 1-7

1A Southwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Cokeville 23-4, 10-0

Little Snake River 23-4, 8-2

Farson-Eden 16-12, 5-5

Saratoga 13-11, 5-5

Ft. Washakie 8-13, 2-8

Encampment 3-19, 0-10

1A Northeast: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Upton 16-7, 10-0

Kaycee 13-12, 7-3

Hulett 12-13, 7-3

Arvada-Clearmont 9-12, 4-6

Casper Christian 4-13, 2-8

Midwest 1-16, 0-10

1A Southeast: (Overall Record, followed by Reg. Season Points)

Southeast 24-5, 40 points

Lingle-Ft. Laramie 17-11, 31 points

Lusk 15-13, 26 points

H.E.M. 13-11, 24 points

Rock River 6-14, 12 points

Guernsey-Sunrise 2-18, 4 points

2A Northwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Thermopolis 16-13, 5-1

Greybull 16-15, 4-2

Rocky Mountain 9-17, 2-4

Shoshoni 11-18, 1-5

2A Southwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Wyoming Indian 23-7, 6-0

Big Piney 8-16, 4-2

Kemmerer 2-21, 1-5

Wind River 2-23, 1-5

2A East: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Sundance 23-4, 5-0

Big Horn 21-6, 4-1

Tongue River 18-11, 3-2

Pine Bluffs 17-12, 2-3

Moorcroft 7-18, 1-4

Wright 3-23, 0-5

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3A West: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Cody 24-0, 10-0

Lander 21-4, 9-1

Pinedale 20-5, 7-3

Powell 16-9, 6-4

Lovell 16-10, 4-6

Worland 9-16, 2-8

Lyman 10-11, 2-8

Mountain View 4-19, 0-10

3A East: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Wheatland 22-4, 10-0

Buffalo 13-11, 8-2

Douglas 14-11, 6-4

Burns 16-13, 5-5

Torrington 10-11, 5-5

Glenrock 12-13, 3-7

Newcastle 1-22, 1-9

Rawlins 2-21, 0-10

4A Northwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Green River 23-2, 6-0

Natrona County 9-16, 4-2

Kelly Walsh 8-15, 2-4

Rock Springs 5-20, 0-6

4A Southwest: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Star Valley 16-7, 5-1

Evanston 16-10, 5-1

Riverton 7-19, 1-5

Jackson 3-19, 1-5

4A East: (Overall Record, followed by Conference Record)

Cheyenne East 21-3, 11-1

Cheyenne Central 16-9, 10-2

Sheridan 14-10, 7-5

Thunder Basin 14-10, 6-6

Laramie 12-11, 6-6

Campbell County 1-19, 1-10

Cheyenne South 1-21, 0-11

*The second Campbell County-Cheyenne South girls’ game was canceled.

Wyoming 3A Boys Swimming & Diving State Championships 2026

Photos from the 3A Boys State Swim Meet

Gallery Credit: Courtesy: Marcello Monterastelli Photography & Jared Newland, WHSAA

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Wyoming

Why This Wyoming Town Deserves More Attention

Published

1 day ago

March 9, 2026

Press Room

Why This Wyoming Town Deserves More Attention

A pristine trail town tucked into the breathtaking beauty of western Wyoming, Dubois puts the ‘wild’ in the Wild West. Just 55 miles from Yellowstone National Park and located in the Wind River, Owl Creek, and Absaroka mountain ranges, the town is a welcoming alpine community with stunning views from every street. From enjoying the fresh powder on the winter slopes to hiking, biking, or riding through the wildflower-covered peaks in the summer, Dubois is a year-round destination that offers adventure in every season. In addition to its serene location, Dubois is a vibrant town with lots on the menu from fine dining to lively western-style saloons.

The History of Dubois

Old West piano player on the front port of historic saloon in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

The Wind River Valley remained sparsely populated until the late 1800s, when pioneering homesteaders established the first settlements, initiating a small yet lively community. While fur traders, explorers, and some Native American tribes were familiar with the area, it was the arrival of homesteaders that helped shape its identity. This led to the emergence of a town, supported by the expansion of cattle and sheep ranching.

Dubois was officially incorporated in 1914 and grew over the years, benefiting from its logging, farming, and tourism sectors. Today, with a population of 778 as of the 2022 census, Dubois remains true to its Western heritage, offering visitors an authentic cowboy experience.

Things to Do in Dubois

CM Ranch in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Dana Lane via Flickr.com

Get that cowboy experience at one of the oldest guest ranches in the country, the CM Ranch which opened in 1927. It doesn’t matter whether you are an experienced rider, or never been on a horse, the experienced staff at this busy dude ranch will show you the ropes. Guests can choose their own adventure, from riding trails through desert badlands and mountain highlands to fly fishing in the backcountry.

Sunset on the Painted Hills Near Dubois, Wyoming.

Dubois is located in mountain country, possibly the only place where you can observe three distinct types of mountains: those formed by glaciers, volcano-created peaks, and ranges caused by shifting underground plates. It is a haven and playground for nature lovers. If you prefer walking over riding, numerous local guides are available to help you explore the trails and enjoy the best vistas. For those who prefer to go alone, the Bonneville Pass Trail offers a scenic climb through valley meadows, while the Five Pockets Trail provides spectacular views of Horse Creek with the Absaroka Mountains as a backdrop.

Look out for ancient carvings while you are exploring; Wyoming is home to stunning examples of rock art. In the Wind River Range, you will find the Torrey Lake Petroglyph District, which includes around 175 well-preserved petroglyphs. For more information on where to see the best pictograms or find accessible trails, speak to the staff at the Dubois Museum. This specialty museum traces the geology of the area, its early inhabitants, and its history of homesteading. They also offer custom guided tours of petroglyphs, native sheep trap and buffalo drive sites, and more.

Wind River in the Summer Near Dubois Wyoming. — Wind River in the summer Near Dubois Wyoming.

Dubois is a favorite spot for anglers, featuring pristine lakes, streams, and rivers teeming with fish like rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. Try casting your line at Torrey Creek. The waters aren’t just for fishing; you can also enjoy kayaking or canoeing, or relax with a float trip guided by Wind River Float Trips.

In winter, the country is even more beautiful, and there are still lots of ways to enjoy it. Go ice-fishing, take a dog-sled ride through the snowy wonderland, or try cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Downtown Dubois

Exterior of Outlaw Saloon with view of street and mountains in Dubois, Wyoming. — The exterior of Outlaw Saloon in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

Many Wild West legends have strolled through Dubois, including the infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy. While things may have changed over time, the town still radiates quirky character and Western charm. After a day outdoors, grab a bite at the Rustic Pine Tavern, open since 1919, or visit the Outlaw Bar and Saloon. Once called the Branding Iron Inn, the Outlaw Bar has remained a beloved Dubois gathering spot for generations.

In the summer months, the town hosts the Dubois Friday Night Rodeo, which runs through June, July, and August. The family-friendly event features Mutton Bustin, Calf Riding, Mini Bull Riding, Pee Wee Barrel Racing, and more.

What Makes Dubois Different

Main street in the western town of Dubois Wyoming. — The main street in the western town of Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

Dubois remains a timeless town nestled amid Wyoming’s towering mountain ranges. This cowboy haven has preserved its natural beauty and charm for centuries, attracting explorers, pioneers, hunters, and adventurers. Visitors can saddle up at a dude ranch, scale mountain peaks, fish or float on glacial rivers, and unwind at the local rodeo—offering an ideal setting for unforgettable experiences and a break from everyday life.

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