Wyoming

‘I lost my job, my housing and health insurance all in one day’: Federal workers say cuts go deep

Published

1 year ago

March 8, 2025

‘I lost my job, my housing and health insurance all in one day’: Federal workers say cuts go deep

Couch Surfing

Out on the snowy prairie near Pinedale, Samantha Marks gave a Zoom tour of the log barn she built herself last summer. There’s a sleeping loft, a wood stove and big views of the Wind River Range.

“My wonderful boyfriend is helping me move all of my stuff into the barn because, with the federal employee thing, I was living in federal housing. So don’t have that much longer,” Marks said with a laugh.

Her boyfriend carted stuff in on his mountain bike because her driveway isn’t plowed. Outside the wide double barn doors, he piled up camping gear and pots and pans.

Marks got laid off as a probationary physical science technician from the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Now, she only has a few days left to get moved out of employee housing. Marks said there’s no way she can find an apartment in Pinedale – they go too fast. Plus, she said they cost around $2,000 a month. But she can’t move into this barn either. It isn’t heated or insulated.

“I’ll just be couch surfing until we can get the camper here.”

Her plan is that when the snow melts, she’ll pull a friend’s camper out here and live in that until she can build a house.

Marks thought she was being smart when she bought this land. She waited until the Forest Service offered her a permanent position. It was her dream job.

“On paper, I did everything right,” Marks said. “I don’t know if I would have made the same choice. I probably would have waited another year or two to pick this place. But now I’m also kind of glad that I did because I need some sort of stability in my life.”

Marks has decided to stay in Pinedale since she’s built a community here. This summer, though, she’ll have to hustle to find work and build a house.

“I’m pretty overwhelmed, honestly,” Marks said. “I lost my job, my housing and health insurance all in one day.”

Wyoming’s Affordable Housing Problem

These federal layoffs are hitting Wyoming in the middle of an affordable housing crisis. The state will be short as many as 38,000 homes by the end of this decade. And that much competition means that about 50,000 Wyomingites barely make enough to afford their rent or mortgage, according to a 2024 study by the Wyoming Community Development Authority.

“This is a hard statistic to even fathom, but it’s real,” said Chris Volzke, the organization’s deputy executive director. “The median household income in Wyoming, which is a little over $70,000 a year, cannot afford the median priced house in every county in the state without being cost burdened.”

Cost burdened is when you have to pay more than a third of your income for your home. Volzke said their study shows that more Wyomingites are packing themselves into shared housing or even becoming unhoused.

“ The majority of homeless people in Wyoming are Wyomingites,” Volzke said. “It’s primarily our neighbors and people in our community that had a series of events that forced them out of their rental into a car, into the street, whatever the scenario is.”

One of those scenarios could be getting fired from a federal agency.

Full-time RVing

Alan Willes and Teri Gilfilen are both in their 70s and live full-time in their RV. They talked on Zoom from their RV couch, their cat Petra curled up next to them.

“ We’re at a RV resort in Camp Verde,” Willes said.

Each winter, they lead tours and man a visitor center at Palatki Heritage Site outside Sedona, Arizona. They get paid a stipend of $20 dollars a day. But because of the federal funding freeze, they haven’t gotten paid yet and the check is now two months late.

“If we could get [our stipend] without us costing an arm and a leg,” Willes said. They know hiring an attorney and fighting for the money in court is outside their budget. “It’d probably cost us $20,000 to go get $3,000. No, we can’t do that. They got us over a barrel.”

Right now, they’re paying $1,500 dollars a month for a lot in an RV park.

“Our next plan is waiting for the weather to break and go back up to Jackson, Wyoming, if we don’t freeze ourselves. And wait ‘til May, [which] is when the float trip season starts for me,” Willes said.

Every summer, Willes works as a shuttle driver for a rafting company. He’s worried the recent and expected future firings of National Park Service employees will hurt business.

“We’re very nervous about that,” he said. “If the park service closes down, I don’t know if we’d be closed down. I would think so.”

That would put their housing at risk, since the company lets them park in a pasture for free.

“Plan A, B, C, D. With today’s accelerations that are happening, I don’t think one plan cuts it,” said Gilfilen.

One of those plans is getting off the road and settling down in Wyoming.

“ Never in my life would I have thought I would be living in an RV in [my] 70s,” said Gilfilen. “Yeah, it just totally surprises me. But we do have an adventurous life.”

Wyoming Public Radio reached out to Coconino and Bridger-Teton national forests but both declined to comment. However, Coconino National Forest did send Willes and Gilfilen an email the same day Wyoming Public Radio reached out for comment. It said they could expect their money within the week. As of March 7, no check has arrived.

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Wyoming

Wyoming Announces 2026 Football Schedule – SweetwaterNOW

Published

12 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

24 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

Read More Girls Basketball News from WyoPreps

WyoPreps 1A-2A Girls State Basketball Scoreboard 2026

WyoPreps 3A-4A Girls Regional Basketball Scoreboard 2026

WyoPreps Coaches and Media Final Basketball Poll 2026

WyoPreps 1A-2A Girls Regional Basketball Scoreboard 2026

WyoPreps Coaches and Media Basketball Poll 2-25-26

WyoPreps Girls Basketball Week 10 Scores 2026

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WyoPreps Girls Basketball Week 9 Scores 2026

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WyoPreps Girls Basketball Week 8 Scores 2026

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Nominate A Basketball Player for the WyoPreps Athlete of the Week Honor

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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