As my initial trainings are over and I’m nearly brought up to speed with all things BLM and Forestry, it’s time for my daily tasks to switch from learning to doing. The focus has turned to applying what I have learned to help manage the forests surrounding Casper and Buffalo, Wyoming. Each city is home to its own unique mountain experience.

To the south of Casper, Wyoming, is the Laramie Mountain Range, where my time is spent predominantly on Muddy Mountain. Due to its proximity to the city, it is easily accessible and readily traveled by many. Recreation trails crisscross the mountain allowing easy access and two developed campgrounds have been established yet the natural beauty remains astonishing. I frequent the forest to monitor public fire wood sales, check the density of post and pole sale areas as well as designate new forest product sales. The trees of Muddy Mountain are in high demand, due to the proximity of Casper. This backyard mountain has even become a personal favorite weekend retreat.

In north central Wyoming, the Bighorn mountain range dominates the landscape. The peaks scrape the sky while the rolling meadows dance between. The landscape is incredible. It is serene, untouched, and nearly always vacant of human impact. Moose linger in the wetlands while signs of elk are abundant. My forestry routine is much the same as on Muddy Mountain, except the scale is immense. Because the public demand is not as great, I often work with contractors in the Bighorns as they are capable of finishing the jobs in a timely manner. Every moment spent in the Bighorn Mountains is a treat, oh what a wonderful place to call my office!

The field season is in high gear, and there is rarely a dull moment. Each day goes by quicker and quicker, as more and more is accomplished. While the immediate impacts of my work are difficult to see, the long term influence will surely benefit these great natural places for generations to come.

Cruising Timber

View from Muddy Mountain