The Bridger-Teton National Forest has released its draft assessment and potential species of conservation concern, marking the first step in a multi-year effort to revise its forest plan. Starting July 11th, the public can review these documents at fs.usda.gov/r04/bridger-teton/planning and provide comments through August 24th. This process aims to update the 1990 Forest Plan, which guides resource management across the forest’s 3.4 million acres in western Wyoming.The draft assessment summarizes the “State of the Forest,” detailing current ecological, social, and economic conditions and trends. It covers topics like fire management, recreation, wildlife migration corridors, forest products, range management, and aquatic and terrestrial ecological integrity. Once finalized, the assessment will inform updates to the forest plan, which functions like a county comprehensive plan, providing strategic direction for all future projects and land use decisions to ensure sustainable management.To engage the community, Bridger-Teton is hosting three open houses:
- July 14th, 5–7 p.m., Afton Civic Center Room 125 A&B, 150 Washington Street, Afton
- July 15th, 5–7 p.m., Teton County Library Ordway Auditorium, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson
- July 17th, 5–7 p.m., Pinedale Library Lovatt Room, 155 South Tyler Avenue, Pinedale
Additional discussions with surrounding communities are being planned, with details to be posted on the forest’s planning webpage. “We look forward to sharing information on status and trends,” said Forest Supervisor Chad Hudson, encouraging attendees to learn about the planning process and how to submit comments.Public comments must be submitted online at cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public/CommentInput?project=63628. Hudson noted that effective comments should be specific, relevant, and include facts, data, or local knowledge to help refine the assessment. Comments via social media, email, phone, or mail will not be accepted. After the comment period closes, the forest will review feedback to finalize the assessment, which will guide the next phases of plan revision.For more information or to access the draft assessment, visit fs.usda.gov/r04/bridger-teton/planning. Public input is critical to shaping the future of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, ensuring it remains a vital resource for generations.
