FIELD Notes

The Lander BLM is recommending that surface mining at Johnny Behind the Rocks be restricted so as not to disrupt the recreational opportunities there. The Fremont County Commission has decided to oppose this proposal, but they are reconsidering on August 23rd.

Johnny Behind the Rocks is a well-established destination for mountain biking in the Lander area. Photo: Bob Wick, BLM

We believe the outstanding trail system and scenery at Johnny Behind the Rocks is incompatible with mining. Johnny is one of those special places that drives Lander’s economy and helps make us a recreational hot-spot. The BLM hails JBR among its top 20 mountain biking destinations. Volunteers from Lander and Riverton have invested hours of effort building its trails. They have also generously funded infrastructure. Johnny is one of the important locations around Lander. It helps make our town the special place it is today: a western town with rural charm and world-class recreation areas. These areas encourage existing residents—our young people—to stay in town. They draw in new residents: young professionals who buy homes, put down roots, start families, and start businesses. These professionals could live anywhere in the West but bring their energy and their tax dollars to Lander. These areas also draw in tourists. Wyoming’s second-most important economy is tourism and it’s a vital one for Lander. Tourists who come to hike, climb, and bike pay lodging taxes and buy gas, groceries, and restaurant meals, helping keep businesses on our Main Street afloat. Whether you head to Johnny for an adventure-filled ride or a Saturday morning dog walk, you know its views, geology, wildlife, and natural setting are incompatible with mining.

How can I help?

The Fremont County Commission is deciding whether to oppose or support this withdrawal on August 23rd. The commission made a preliminary decision on August 2 to stand opposed to this withdrawal. Email the county commissioners to let them know what you think—let them know why you go there, and how important Johnny is to Lander.

and tell the BLM what you think, too!

Send comments to the BLM by September 8. They can be emailed to Kristin Yannone at kyannone@blm.gov. Include “JBR Mineral Withdrawal” in the subject line. Or, mail your comments to: BLM-Lander Field Office, ATTN: Kristin Yannone, 1335 Main Street, Lander, WY, 82520

Check our Johnny Behind the Rocks fact sheet (PDF) for more information.

Please contact us if you have any questions!