None The Nature Conservancy in Wyoming Press Releases Search All Press Releases Pam Dewell Phone: (307) 335-2133 E-mail: pdewell@tnc.org

Nature Conservancy Purchases Parker Ranch Parcels

Lander, WY—May 1, 2004—The Nature Conservancy purchased two parcels of the Parker Ranch today, ensuring the conservation of an important buffer area between the Shoshone National Forest and other private properties.   “These two parcels are an important component of some of the most ecologically significant habitat in this part of the country,” said Paula Hunker, Associate State Director for The Nature Conservancy.  “Protecting them from subdivision will help to ensure the viability of a number of species.”

Characterized by sagebrush grasslands, both the Pony Creek and Tappan Creek parcels are vital links in a major elk migration route from summer range in the Absarokas down into winter range in the upper Wind River Valley.   More than 7,000 elk—the largest herd in the lower 48 states and the only one in northwestern Wyoming that is not supplementally fed—journey across the property to winter in the Upper Wind River Valley.  Deer, antelope and moose are also common.

The Conservancy plans to add both parcels to its Ramshorn Ranch, formerly the cow camp and summer pasture for the Winchester operation headquartered at Diversion Dam.  The Ramshorn Ranch is currently offered for sale, under conservation easement, to a buyer willing to share the Conservancy’s commitment to preserve the land’s ecological integrity.  The lower Winchester property currently serves as winter ground for the Conservancy’s cattle.