Like you, we at the Wyoming Outdoor Council are learning to cope with the changes to our everyday lives brought on by the spread of COVID-19. Most of our staff are working from home as a precaution and we’re all doing our best to practice social distancing, which includes a stop to all work-related travel. Some are juggling children who aren’t able to go to school or sharing tight quarters with spouses or partners. And we’re naturally all worried about the future and the health of our communities, neighbors and loved ones.
(You can find information about COVID-19 treatment and prevention at the Centers for Disease Control website.)
But because our purpose is to conserve Wyoming’s natural resources and wild places forever, this isn’t the time to soften our efforts. Threats to Wyoming’s public lands, wildlife, air, and water will persist long after we’ve addressed the very real threats this illness poses today. As health professionals and public officials concentrate on treating and preventing COVID-19, we’ll remain focused on our mission.
We’re grateful for your continued support to safeguard the Wyoming we love — now and for future generations — as we navigate these difficult times together.
In the midst of escalating coronavirus concerns, we wrapped up a productive session of conservation advocacy at the Wyoming Legislature, submitted public comments on an upcoming oil and gas lease sale and solar energy development, and continued work on Teton County wastewater issues.
So far in 2020, your voices have helped shape the governor’s executive order on big game migration corridors, defeat ill conceived bills in the legislature, and convince the DEQ not to allow more polluted wastewater to flow into Boysen Reservoir. Thank you. I hope your engagement doesn’t waver.
In the near term, we’ll be exploring opportunities to host online trainings in grassroots advocacy, interactive Q&A sessions on topics like migration corridors, chronic wasting disease and climate change, a post-session (online) Beers & Bills, and educational resources for kids. Stay tuned for what we have in store, and feel free to send us your suggestions.
Through the struggles and uncertainty that too often dominate our lives, the outdoors is what restores us mentally and physically. I hope you’re able to spend some outside — away from crowds, of course — to take care of yourself and those you love.
Thank you for being part of the Wyoming Outdoor Council community.