The Wyoming Range Legacy Act: A solution for Wyoming

The Wyoming Range represents the heart and soul of our state – independent, still wild, rugged, and a wonder for those that come from all over to experience it.
   —Senator Barrasso

In Wyoming, we pull a lot of weight producing energy for the rest of the country. But pulling that weight doesn’t mean we need to give up the hunting, fishing, and recreation spots we take our children.

The Wyoming Range Legacy Act is a bipartisan solution that’s been sponsored by both of Wyoming’s Republican Senators. It’s supported by a wide variety of Wyoming groups and individuals such as Wyoming Outfitters and Guides, Governor Freudenthal, Wyoming AFL-CIO, Wyoming Tourism Bureau, Wyoming Game Wardens Association, as well as local landowners, ranchers, outfitters, sportsmen, business owners and conservation groups. Read the FAQ to learn more.

Resources

• Frequently Asked Questions


• Read the Wyoming Range Legacy Act (S2229)


• United States Geological Survey Energy assessment


• Wyoming State Geological Survey Energy Assessment


• Congressional Budget Office assessment


• Full Color Brochure

Wyoming Range Bill Promotes Balance
The Wyoming Range Legacy Act is a balanced bill that allows Wyoming to continue producing more than its share of energy resources while protecting a special place that defines our state. Consider these facts about the legislation:

Three government reports now show legislation will not impact Wyoming’s energy effort
  • Independently, the Wyoming State Geologic Survey and the US Geologic Survey have concluded there is relatively little oil and natural gas resource in the Wyoming Range— only 1.1–1.5 trillion cubic feet (tcf), especially in comparison to the adjacent Jonah and Pinedale Anticline Fields which hold about 37 tcf.
  • The federal Congressional Budget Office, which provides research to Congress, issued a report showing legislation “would have no significant effect on the federal budget.” This analysis looked at future revenue from energy development and did not anticipate an impact.
Legislation protects Wyoming values
  • Protects Wyoming’s best trophy mule deer hunting, blue-ribbon trout streams, and world class elk and Shiras moose hunting.
  • Safeguards a western way of life, outdoor heritage, and recreational activities for families.
  • Maintains traditional livelihoods of ranching, outfitting, and tourism.
Legislation allows access to WY Range energy resources
  • Does not impact valid lease rights. Currently, there are 75,000 acres of valid, undeveloped leases in the Range. Because most of the identified resource falls under these leases, access to energy will remain open even after passage of the legislation.
  • Does not include currently producing gas fields in the southern portion of the Range. Production will continue there.
  • Allows for directional drilling and access to oil and gas resource under the withdrawal area from already developed fields on the Forest.

Legislation has recently passed through committee and now awaits a vote on the full Senate floor. You can download additional information about the bill (including the reports mentioned above) from the resources toolbar.