Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

[Return to Poems and Thoughts index page]

Creating a Conservation Easement. {Final comments on 2661 acres to create a protective easement with the Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust (WSGLT). One of many such agreements in my life.} These properties, as an entity, will be donated to the U of WYO with an easement. This is the result of many years of work to accrue all parcels and lots along with much personal remuneration, to enhance the State of Wyoming and its wildlife, situated in an agricultural setting. The Little Medicine Bow River is a tremendous asset for the project property. It is our wish to have a stable working ranch, protecting its wildlife in perpetuity. We wish to use one of the existing lots (Lot 46 seems most appropriate--topography, its juxtaposition to the larger sections, etc.) as the 'building envelope' for the ranching family, and to keep all sectioned areas as one working entity. Because of the status of Sage Grouse in the State, let alone the nation itself, we wish them to be totally protected. Because of the Black Footed Ferret on the northern neighboring ranch, we wish they also be protected, and that all other wildlife be legally hunted, if need be, respecting all Wyoming laws. If peripheral fences are upgraded, they should be wildlife friendly. Internal fences should be temporary. All geographic features should be left in place to maintain the aesthetic beauty of the ranch. We wish to work with the WSGLT and the University of WYO to achieve the most suitable result. Thank you for considering this application to be part of your conservation efforts. Frank Maurer 18 April 2024.