Conservation biologist Joel Berger has closely monitored Wyoming’s extended efforts to protect a crucial migration corridor for pronghorn antelope. These animals migrate as far as 150 miles from Interstate 80 to Grand Teton National Park. In the early 2000s, Berger, then living in Jackson Hole, was vocal in urging measures to ensure pronghorn could navigate the fragmented landscape amidst the Pinedale natural gas development.
In 2003, Berger authored a significant paper questioning the acceptability of allowing a species to face extinction within a national park. At that time, Wyoming’s governor, Dave Freudenthal, and local officials showed hesitation in safeguarding the southern part of the corridor. Efforts to protect the pronghorn only gained ground in the northern part, where the U.S. Forest Service protected 47,000 acres in 2008 under a Bridger-Teton National Forest plan amendment.
Over time, dedicated conservation efforts gained traction. This week marked a significant milestone, as a state-led process reached its penultimate step in protecting the pronghorn migration route. A working group appointed by Governor Mark Gordon finalized its review, preparing recommendations for the governor.
Joel Berger remarked, “Wyoming sometimes leads, and sometimes lags. It’s gratifying to see the state recognize the importance of migration corridors.”
During a meeting in Pinedale, stakeholders expressed appreciation for the advancing process. Meghan Riley from the Wyoming Outdoor Council highlighted the historic nature of this designation process under an executive order, stating, “This is the first time the state has gone through the full process for pronghorn.”
Bill Ames, a Green River resident and retired land surveyor, praised the plan for balancing development needs while protecting the species, calling it an outstanding achievement accomplished by a diverse group.
Despite long-standing division, especially from extractive industries and agriculture groups, a new policy introduced by Governor Gordon established the current process. Now, the working group awaits a final decision from the governor.
Sara DiRienzo, a deputy policy advisor, informed the group about the final drafting of recommendations, offering a last chance for members to make minor changes before the governor’s review.
Throughout discussions, some resistance persisted. Sublette County Commissioner Lynn Bernard expressed ongoing concerns but valued local control. Ultimately, all members agreed to move forward with the designation. Notably, oil and gas representative Jasmine Allison and other industry representatives showed reservations, yet supported the progress.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has yet to announce which migration path will next undergo this designation process. Several mapped routes remain candidates, with the process for the Wyoming Range Mule Deer Herd still pending.