Crook County Natural Resource District

 Current program applications/Information:

Northeast Wyoming Habitat Improvement Project:

 Miller Creek Lytle Creek Project:

The CCNRD’s Forest Health Improvement Program includes non-commercial thinning projects to deter disease and infestation; reducing hazardous fuels by creating defensible spaces around structures, implementing fuel breaks in targeted locations; and enhancing wildlife habitats by addressing conifer encroachment and selectively thinning woodland areas to reduce raptor predation in core sage-grouse areas, to promote quality forage for mule deer, and to improve elk habitat.  Wildlife habitat improvement projects will begin fall of 2022.

Forest health sustainability and wildfire reduction are core objectives to the Forest Health Improvement Program. The threat of wildfire is intensifying as a result of increased housing and increased subdivision developments amplified by the recent Covid-19 pandemic, as new residents flock to rural Crook County in unprecedented numbers. Though beautiful, forestland can be a tinderbox if not properly maintained or managed. High duff and dense forests are common throughout the County—coupled with steep terrain, conditions become ideal for catastrophic wildfires. 

The CCNRD is working with the Bureau of Land Management, the USFS Bearlodge Ranger District and Wyoming State Forestry Division to help reduce hazardous fuels throughout the County. CCNRD staff are working with the Crook County Commissioners and partnering agencies to identify wildfire risks and mitigation efforts for the County. The Wyoming Wildlife & Natural Resource Trust, Muley Fanatics Foundation, WY Game & Fish Commission, WY Governor's Big Game License Coalition, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation are partnering with the CCNRD to help improve wildlife habitat in the County. 

Sarah Anderson is the Program Coordinator for the Forest Health Program.  She can be reached at 307-283-2870 x100 or by email: anderson.ccnrd@gmail.com.