Fall

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Aspen and cottonwood trees have turned brilliant yellow heralding the end of summer. Hunters have arrived, locals are getting the last of their firewood in, and winter enthusiasts are getting their snowmachines and skis ready for the snow season!

Saturday, September 29
Fire Restrictions Lifted
PFAC Presents Ronnie Bedford
LOCAL FOCUS:
Gros Ventre Road Closure October 1
Snowmobile Raffle
Log Cabin Motel
It's Girl Scout Cookie Time Again

Fire Restrictions Lifted on FS Lands, Not on Game & Fish or BLM
Campfires allowed, caution still urged
Recent moisture prompted fire officials to lift fire restrictions from the Bridger-Teton National Forest lands earlier this week. Fire restrictions remain in effect on Game & Fish and BLM lands.
   Backcountry users are still being urged to be extremely careful when recreating in forested area. Campers should use fully enclosed liquid or gas fueled stoves in lieu of campfires, whenever possible. Persons gathering firewood should ensure that chainsaws and other equipment have properly functioning spark arresters and persons choosing to smoke in forested areas should also exercise safety by smoking only in an area cleared bare soil, three feet by three feet square.
  Campfires in backcountry areas must be attended at all times and confined to an established fire ring. Forest users are requested to properly extinguish all fires by mixing water and soil into the fire pit, ensuring that it is no longer producing heat, prior to leaving. If dry weather conditions return or significant fires due to human negligence begin to occur in the area, Forest Service officials stated that fire restrictions will be reestablished.

PFAC presents Ronnie Bedford
 Wed. Oct. 3, 7:30 pm
The Pinedale Fine Arts Council, PFAC presents the Ronnie Bedford and Friends Jazz Trio. The concert will feature Grammy award winning pianist Roger Kellaway, along with Ronnie Bedford on the drums and Jeff Rew playing bass.
  Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are available from Cowboy Shop/Stitchin'Post, Moosely Books, Moose Creek Trading Company and Office Outlet in Pinedale, and Prairie Cafe, Office Outlet and the Big Piney Library in Big Piney. Tickets will also be available at the door.

LOCAL FOCUS
Gros Ventre Road Closed Monday, October 1
The Bridger-Teton National Forest advises forest users that the Gros Ventre Road will be closed on Monday October 1 from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. as work continues on the Russold Hill project. Work requiring trenches across the road to install the water drains are prompting the closure. The site of the closure is the on-going project at the top of the road on Russold Hill, about 2 miles east of the Atherton Campground. In addition, twenty-minute delays may occur at the site during the next few weeks. Anyone who has questions can contact the Bridger-Teton National Forest at (307) 739-5500.

Pinedale Lions Club Snowmobile Raffle
The Pinedale Lions Club is holding their 12th Annual Snowmobile Raffle 2001 fundraiser to win a Polaris 700 Snowmachine, Indy RMK 2002. The drawing will be held on December 1st at Bucky's Outdoors in Pinedale (need not be present to win). Tickets are $50 each and only 200 tickets will be sold. Tickets are available from any Pinedale Lions Club member, Big J's Auto Parts or Bucky's Outdoors in Pinedale.

Log Cabin Motel
The Log Cabin Motel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was built in 1929 and is one of the oldest sites in Pinedale. The motel was built by Walter Scott who owned the Pinedale Cash Store and Scott Stage Co. It was the first and only cabin camp built in Pinedale with help from people who were either craftsmen or who had to pay off their debts from Walter Scott’s store. Eight log cabins are available for rent June through September. Each authentic cabin has a covered front porch and lawn chairs to relax and enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds. Features include china tubs and showers, individual heat, separate water heaters, kitchens available, coffee makers in each cabin and cable television. Reservations can be made throughout the year via e-mail for the summer months. For more information, please visit the Log Cabin Motel web site at www.thelogcabinmotel.com.

It's Girl Scout Cookie Time Again in Pinedale
Love Girl Scout Cookies? The local Girl Scouts are out again selling all the favorite varieties, including two new ones. Girls will be going around town this next week and then a table will be set up at Faler's Thriftway during the final days of the sale. Prices are from $2.50 to $3.50 per box, depending on the variety. Approximately 70% of the proceeds from the cookie sales stays in the local Girl Scout council to provide a portion of the resources needed to support Girl Scouting in that area. Anyone who wants more information about obtaining Girl Scout cookies locally can contact Ann Fear at 307-367-4195. (If a local Girl Scout doesn't find you, our own Trudy here at Office Outlet has a cookie sign-up sheet available also.) For more information about the Girl Scout Cookie program, click here.

Friday, September 21

It's Hunting Season!

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Last Saturday, September 15th, was the opening day for the deer hunting season. This is a busy time for the businesses around Pinedale. We have many hunters from all around the country, as well as the local hunters, even in spite of the poor hunting conditions due to the dry weather. The sheriff's department has issued some do's and don'ts to help keep you safe while hunting in this area. (more)

Do's and Don'ts for Hunting
PFAC Presents Ronnie Bedford
Goodbye to Camp 0' the Pines
Benefit Supper for Disaster
LOCAL FOCUS:
Pinedale High School Homecoming
Trudy's Take

Do's and Don'ts for Hunting
Do:
1) Carry survival gear, especially waterproof matches.
2) If you are lost, do have a fire going and if you hear a search plane, throw green branches on the fire to make visible smoke.
3) Carry a mirror to signal searchers.
4) Stay out in the open, use clothing or branches to form an "X" . Once you have been spotted by a search plane stay put so the ground crews can find you.
5) Dress appropriately for the weather, guard against hypothermia.
6) Tell your family members of your plans and where you are going.
Don't:
1) Don't leave your survival gear anywhere. Keep it with you at all times.
2) Don't go into the timber. Stay in the open, so the search planes can find you.
3) Don't panic. Sit down and compose yourself.
4) Don't go hunting without telling someone where you will park your vehicle and where you will be hunting.
5) Don't even think about going hunting without taking survival gear: matches, mirror, a candle, water purification equipment, flashlight, emergency food, fire starter and strike-type flare.

PFAC Presents Ronnie Bedford
 Wed. Oct. 3, 7:30 pm
The Pinedale Fine Arts Council, PFAC presents the Ronnie Bedford and Friends Jazz Trio. The concert will feature Grammy award winning pianist Roger Kellaway, along with Ronnie Bedford on the drums and Jeff Rew playing bass.
  Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are available from Cowboy Shop/Stitchin'Post, Moosely Books, Moose Creek Trading Company and Office Outlet in Pinedale, and Prairie Cafe, Office Outlet and the Big Piney Library in Big Piney. Tickets will also be available at the door. For more information about the Colcannon performance, please call 307-367-7322 or 367-2485.

Goodbye to Camp 0' the Pines
 
The old Camp o' the Pines motel was taken down this week, to make room for a parking lot for the 1st National Bank of Pinedale. The many beautiful old trees that surrounded the old motel will remain and the parking lot will be built around them.

Benefit Supper for Disaster Relief
  A benefit dinner was held after Pinedale High School's homecoming game on Friday, Sept. 21. The proceeds will be given to the National Disaster Relief. To help the victims of the World Trade Center, Pentagon and Flight 77 Disasters. It was held at the Pinedale High School Cafeteria. Free-Will donations were matched 100% by the Aid Association for Lutherans. The supper was sponsored by the aid Association for Lutherans Branch 5200, Area Churches, Pinedale Lions Club and the Pinedale Area Chamber of Commerce.

LOCAL FOCUS
Pinedale High School Homecoming
Pinedale High School homecoming celebration began on Friday with a parade down main street. They played against the Big Piney Punchers, one of there biggest rivals. Homecoming events included a Girl's Swim Meet, the Football game, and a Volleyball Tournament. The Homecoming dance was held on Friday night. There was a dinner after the game to benefit the National Disaster Relief Fund. (more)

Trudy's Take
We finally got some of the much needed rain we have been waiting for all summer. We even enjoyed the hail. It was such a nice cleansing, cathartic thing. Adults were talking about when they were kids and ran out into the rain and hail to catch the drops on their tongues. After the intense feelings of loss and violation of last week's events in the eastern part of our country it was nice to recall times that were carefree and less threatening. The healing is going to take a long time. Homecoming for Pinedale is this Friday. We have enjoyed the car window paintings and the other preparations going on. We wish the team the best of luck. The band is marching up and down the side streets practicing for the parade. See you all Friday for the parade which kicks off the grand event.

Wednesday, September 12

Wyoming Skyscrapers

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Mountains tower like skyscrapers in the Bridger Wilderness of the Wind River Mountain Range. The Slide Lake area shown above is located in the northern portion of the Winds and is a good hike from the Green River Lakes campground.

Blood Drive for New York Disaster
PFAC Presents Colcannon
Golf Course & Museum Seasons End
Boulder Volunteer FD Open House
Fire Update
LOCAL FOCUS:
Grass Drags Results and Pictures
Be Prepared for Colder Weather
John Dickie Custom Iron Work

Blood Drive for New York Disaster
  The Pinedale Emergency Medical Services Council is sponsoring a United Blood Services Emergency Blood Drive for the New York Disaster on Friday, September 14th from 10 am - 6 pm at the Pinedale EMS Facility at 138 North Bridger in Pinedale. Donors are asked to please call to sign up, 307-367-2315. If no answer, people are asked to leave their name, a call-back phone number, and the best time to call, and they will call you back. Blood is needed immediately and will also be needed for many weeks to come, so anyone who can donate is urged to please do so.

PFAC Presents Colcannon
Fri, Sept 14, 7:30 pm
The Pinedale Fine Arts Council and Rock Rabbit Gallery of Pinedale invite the public to join them for an Irish Evening, featuring Colcannon in a return engagement to Pinedale on Friday, September 14th at 7:30 pm. Colcannon will perform traditional and contemporary Irish music at the Pinedale High School Auditorium. Their concert will include traditional as well as originals songs and instrumentals performed with all-acoustic instrumentation and presented with warmth, virtuosity and wit.
   The evening will begin at 6:30 pm with an Art Show at the Rock Rabbit Gallery, 36 W Pine, featuring the photography of Dan Abernathy while he was in northern Ireland and the plain art painting of Bart Walker while he was in southern Ireland. The Colcannon concert will be at 7:30 pm at the Pinedale Auditorium. The evening will end with an Artist Reception back at the Rock Rabbit Gallery with refreshments.    Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are available from Cowboy Shop/Stitchin'Post, Moosely Books, Moose Creek Trading Company and Office Outlet in Pinedale, and Prairie Cafe, Office Outlet and the Big Piney Library in Big Piney. Tickets will also be available at the door. For more information about the Colcannon performance, please call 307-367-7322 or 367-2485.

On Wednesday, October 3rd, the PFAC will present Ronnie Bedford, Jazz Trio.

Golf Course and Museum of the Mountain Man seasons end
The Museum of the Mountain Man's summer season ends on September 30th. Winter Gallery hours will start on October 1st, Mon-Fri 10 am-noon and 1-3 pm.
   The last tournament of the season for Rendezvous Meadows Golf Course will be the "One Last Time Tournament" on Saturday, September 15th. The Clubhouse and course will remain open to the public through mid-October, closing October 16th.

Boulder Volunteer Fire Co Open House & BBQ
Sat, Sept 15, noon - 3 pm
Don't miss the 17th Annual Boulder Volunteer Fire Company Open House and BBQ on Saturday at the Boulder Fire Hall. They'll be having a firewood raffle, videos for the kids, door prizes, horse shoes, and pop & beer. The BBQ is by Lars. Area fire departments are composed of dedicated individuals who volunteer and donate their time to be there when someone has a fire and needs help. Come on out and support these fantastic people!!

Fire Update
Partial Fire Ban Still in Effect
   The partial fire ban for Sublette County and Bridger-Teton National Forest is still in effect and may last another week to ten days, according to the Pinedale Ranger District. Things are still very dry out there. Visitors are still cautioned to be extremely careful with fire, cigarettes, and anything that could cause a spark. Firefighters have been very grateful to the public for promptly calling in reports of new smoke columns.
    Visitors are being cautioned to be careful of falling trees and residual hot spots in recent burn areas.

LOCAL FOCUS
Pinedale Snow Explorers Grass Drags - Pictures and Results
The Pinedale Snow Explorers hosted their annual Grass Drags on Saturday in a large field behind Rocky Mountain Home Center to a very large, enthusiastic crowd. There were 134 entries from competitors from all over Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and Idaho. Events included snowmachine races in 14 classes and 4-wheeler exhibitions. "King of the Grass" winner was Brian Walters of Ogden, Utah, riding a Polaris machine and winning $590. A total of $5,992 in prize money was awarded at the event, including $2,250 in added purse money that was donated for the event. Click here for pictures and race results.

Be Prepared for Colder Weather
September brings fall, and sometimes an abrupt winter, especially in the high country. Hunters and campers in the mountains should be prepared for winter-like camping conditions on any outings. It is not unusual to have weather conditions change from Indian Summer like to full blown winter in one-day's time in Wyoming. Anyone in the outdoors should come prepared with winter clothing and sleeping bags rated to below zero temperatures. Recreationists should also be aware of the effects that cold and windy conditions can have leading to hypothermia on the unprepared. Partial fire restrictions are still in effect prohibiting open campfires anywhere in Sublette County and on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Fuel stoves should be used for cooking and heating.

New to Pinedale Online!
John Dickie, Custom Iron Work
You'll see his work as you drive along the highways in our wide open county in Wyoming and wonder who did it. Many of the historical turnout signs along our Sublette County highways are now sporting new ironwork creations on the top that depict the scene described in the marker. John Dickie used to weld on pipe lines and drill rigs. Now he uses his incredible talents and imagination to make unique iron work creations for ranch gates, fireplace screens, furniture and more. All his creations are done freehand using his own original designs. John lives in Big Piney, Wyoming. Click here for more information. His web site is www.johndickie.com.

Tuesday, September 11, 2001 - America Under Attack

Shock, Horror and Anger

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The American flag was lowered to half mast at the Pinedale Bureau of Land Management Office, as well as other government offices in Pinedale, as the nation mourns the deaths due to the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, DC Tuesday morning. The BLM office was closed and employees sent home on Tuesday morning. The BLM office will reopen Wednesday. The Forest Service was locked down for a short time, then reopened under alert status. The Pinedale Post Office remained open.

Nation Mourns Terrorist Attacks
Fire Update
LOCAL FOCUS:
Grass Drags Results and Pictures
Be Prepared for Colder Weather

America Under Attack
(7 pm update)
President Bush spoke to the nation this evening saying, "Today the nation saw evil. The very worst of human nature." He vowed to find those responsible and bring them to justice.
   Across the nation, and in Sublette County, people feel anguish over the loss of life and heartfelt sympathy for the families who have been directly affected by today's events. There is also intense anger at those responsible, and determination to stand behind the efforts of the country, and the world, to no longer tolerate terrorist acts. Comments heard today in Pinedale:
   -"It's unbelieveable."
   -"We cannot continue to tolerate terrorism or those who help terrorists."
   -"Our hearts are with those who have lost family and friends."
   -"Lock and load."
   -"This is the new war."

President Bush made it clear that the country would not be stopped by today's events. Government offices would be open tomorrow for business as usual, a strong message that the functions of government will continue without interruption. Financial institutions would be up and running. "This is a day when all Americans from every walk of life unite in our resolve for justice and peace. We stand together to win the war against terrorism," the President said.

(1 pm update)
Pinedale residents joined the country gathered around televisions broadcasting news reports and pictures of the horrible terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon Tuesday morning. Shock, horror and anger were the immediate response.
   The local BLM office was closed and employees sent home for the day. Minimal staff remained on hand to answer phones and meet people at the door. The Pinedale Ranger District office closed for a short time, then reopened under alert status. The Pinedale Post Office remained open, "the mail must go through". Flags were lowered to half mast as the entire country mourns this national tragedy.
  The BLM office was closed today and employees sent home after the news this morning of the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington DC. The BLM office will reopen Wednesday. The Forest Service was locked down for a short time today, then reopened under alert status. The Pinedale Post Office remained open. Flags at government offices were lowered to half mast.

  The Pinedale Emergency Medical Services Council is sponsoring a United Blood Services Emergency Blood Drive for the New York Disaster on Friday, September 14th from 10 am - 6 pm at the Pinedale EMS Facility at 138 North Bridger in Pinedale. Donors are asked to please call to sign up, 307-367-2315. If no answer, people are asked to leave their name, a call-back phone number, and the best time to call, and they will call you back.

• President Bush said in his address to the nation Tuesday night that government offices will be open Wednesday for business as usual.
• The FAA has grounded all US commercial and general aviation air flights until at least noon EDT Wednesday due to security concerns, according to CNN. No flights will be allowed to come in from other countries.
• Amtrak canceled all train service in the northeast corridor from Boston to Washington, and Greyhound bus company has canceled operations in the northeast and in "select locations" around the country.
• Phone carriers are urging people to restrict all calls to the northeast unless absolutely necessary in order to leave lines open for emergency personnel.

Below are other sources for news. Many internet news sites are getting a lot of traffic so may be slow loading.
FEMA
News Links on the Web
CNN
AP Wire
New York Times
US News
ABC News
Time
Trib.com Wyoming News
Trib News Source Links
Salt Lake City News

Fire Update
Partial Fire Ban Still in Effect
A new small fire was reported in the upper Green River drainage near Black Butte on Sunday. This fire was a lightning strike to a single tree and was put out by firefighters.
   The partial fire ban for Sublette County and Bridger-Teton National Forest is still in effect and may last another week to ten days, according to the Pinedale Ranger District. Things are still very dry out there. Visitors are still cautioned to be extremely careful with fire, cigarettes, and anything that could cause a spark. Firefighters have been very grateful to the public for promptly calling in reports of new smoke columns.
   The Closure Area for the Clear Creek Fire near Green River Lakes was lifted and all trails are open. Visitors are cautioned to be careful to not go into the actual fire area due to hazards from falling trees and pockets of smoldering fire. This fire is now in patrol status. All crews were pulled off the Iron Creek Fire in the Big Sandy area of the southern Wind River mountains and the fire management has been returned to the Pinedale Ranger District. This fire is being allowed to continue to burn as a Wildland Fire for Resource benefit. Recent cold weather and snow flurries have slowed the movement of the fire considerably. Visitors are being cautioned to be careful of falling trees and residual hot spots in the burn area.

LOCAL FOCUS
Pinedale Snow Explorers Grass Drags - Pictures and Results
The Pinedale Snow Explorers hosted their annual Grass Drags on Saturday in a large field behind Rocky Mountain Home Center to a very large, enthusiastic crowd. There were 134 entries from competitors from all over Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and Idaho. Events included snowmachine races in 14 classes and 4-wheeler exhibitions. "King of the Grass" winner was Brian Walters of Ogden, Utah, riding a Polaris machine and winning $590. A total of $5,992 in prize money was awarded at the event, including $2,250 in added purse money that was donated for the event. Click here for pictures and race results.

Be Prepared for Colder Weather
September brings fall, and sometimes an abrupt winter, especially in the high country. Hunters and campers in the mountains should be prepared for winter-like camping conditions on any outings. It is not unusual to have weather conditions change from Indian Summer like to full blown winter in one-day's time in Wyoming. Anyone in the outdoors should come prepared with winter clothing and sleeping bags rated to below zero temperatures. Recreationists should also be aware of the effects that cold and windy conditions can have leading to hypothermia on the unprepared. Partial fire restrictions are still in effect prohibiting open campfires anywhere in Sublette County and on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Fuel stoves should be used for cooking and heating

Snowmobile Grass Drags

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The Pinedale Snow Explorers hosted their annual Snowmobile Grass Drags in a large field behind Rocky Mountain Home Center on Saturday in Pinedale. Some 134 entries in both snowmachine and 4-wheeler categories participated from Colorado, Utah and all over Wyoming. Participants and onlookers were encouraged by the fresh dustings of snow visible on the Wind River Mountains, meaning that snowmobiling season (on snow) is not too far away

Saturday, September 8, 2001
Snowmobile Grass Drags
Grizzly Euthanized
Hunting in Griz Country
Building Updates

Snowmobile Grass Drags
The Pinedale Snow Explorers Grass Drags were held Saturday behind Rocky Mountain Home Center in Pinedale. Click here for race results and pictures.

Grizzly Euthanized
A Grizzly euthanized September 5 has Wyoming Game & Fish officials urging proper garbage and feed storage.
(Cody) WY G&F News Release
Euthanizing a sow grizzly bear Sept. 5 that was regularly raiding garbage, livestock feed and poultry west of Cody has wildlife officials pleading with homeowners in grizzly country to securely store attractants for the benefit of both the bears and human safety.
   The bear, estimated at 8 years old, had been taking advantage of a variety of feeding opportunities around Wapiti area homes since early August. The animal was accompanied by two female yearling cubs, which were trapped and relocated by helicopter to the Teton Wilderness south of Yellowstone National Park.
   Mark Bruscino, Game and Fish Department grizzly bear management officer, said the decision was made to euthanize the bear because case histories show once an adult grizzly receives a significant human-associated food reward it will continue to seek those foods regularly.
   "These situations can be avoided by bear proof storage of garbage, livestock feed and other attractants," Bruscino said. "As more subdivisions are built in grizzly country, we want to increase homeowner awareness of grizzlies so these unfortunate situations can be avoided in the future."
   He advises rural homeowners in grizzly country to store their garbage inside between trash pick-ups or to request bear-proof dumpsters from their refuse company. Likewise, livestock feed should be stored in a secure structure and preferably in a bear-proof container. Fifty-five gallon metal drums with snap-locking lids are inexpensive bear-proof containers often used homeowners in bear country.
   "These precautions are not only for the good of the bear, but are also good steps to help avoid property damage and possible human injury from grizzlies frequenting your home and outbuildings," he said.
   Information on living safely in grizzly country, including recommended storage of bear attractants, are available at Game and Fish Department offices. -WGFD-

Hunting in Griz Country
Hunters are urged to use caution in grizzly bear country by the Wyoming Game & Fish Department. "An increased crop of whitebark pine cones this season in the northern Yellowstone Ecosystem could mean an increased chance of early season big game hunters encountering grizzly bears in the high country. The trails of early season big game hunters often lead to stands of the light-barked, high-country tree, whose purple cones are the favored food of grizzly bears from early August until the animals head to hibernation dens in November" states a Wyoming Game & Fish press release.
   Jay Lawson, Wyoming Game and Fish Department chief game warden, urges hunters to be aware of more than just their quarry. "Don't just key in on elk sign in the high country," Schwartz said. "Keep a sharp eye out for grizzly sign, also, to minimize chances of encountering a bear."
Lawson suggests hunters should avoid areas with fresh grizzly scat or excrement. Hunters should also leave areas harboring bear-excavated pine cone mounds where grizzly bears have raided food cached by red squirrels. Hunters are also urged to pack their big game carcass out as soon as possible after the kill. If some of the carcass remains behind, hunters should move it as far as possible downwind from the gut pile and hang the meat in a tree, at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from the trunk.
   Whitebark pine is generally found above 8,500 feet and is one of two high-elevation pines with five needles. The cones are on the end of the upward sweeping branches.
   Chuck Schwartz, leader of the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team, says the improved white bark cone crop exists from about Meeteetse, Wyo. north. "The southern portion of the ecosystem including the Dubois and Jackson areas, experienced a poor crop like last year," Schwartz said.
   The scarcity of pine nuts makes it extra important for hunters in the southern reaches of the ecosystem areas to keep a clean camp and pack game out promptly.
   Last year in the Yellowstone Ecosystem of southwest Montana, eastern Idaho and northwest Wyoming, 13 of the 19 human-caused grizzly bear mortalities were the result of altercations with hunters.

Building Updates:

The new signs are up at the Pinedale Super 8 Motel. They hope to be open in the next few weeks.

The metal framework is in place at the new Pinedale Entertainment Center being built on the west end of Pinedale behind the new Super 8 Motel. The new facility will house an 8-lane bowling alley, two 276-seat movie theaters, a video archade, a billiard room, fast food court and meeting facilities. The building is hoped to be done for a November 1 Grand Opening to be held in conjunction with Black Tie & Blues, a Pinedale Fine Arts Council main fundraiser.

School Begins

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Tuesday, September 4th, was the first day of school for Pinedale students.

Wednesday, September 5, 2001
Fires Calming, Closure still in Effect
LaBarge Hiker Killed in Fall near Fremont Peak in Bridger Wilderness
Weather in for a Change
LOCAL FOCUS:
Snowmobile Grass Drag Race

Fires Calming Down
A Closure is still in effect for Clear Creek area near Green River Lakes. Big Sandy area trails are still open.
The cooler weather moving into the area today has helped firefighters on the two fires burning in the Bridger Wilderness of the Wind River Mountain Range. The Wolf Fire south of Jackson is burning in the Snake River Canyon approximately 1/2 mile from the highway and heavy smoke is affecting traffic at times. A new start, the Buford Fire, was reported on the Big Piney Ranger District approximately 9 miles northwest of the Sherman Guard Station
near the headwaters of Grizzly Creek. This fire was quickly responded to by four firefighters and contained at ¼ acre at 2:00 am Wednesday morning.
   The Iron Creek Fire is a natural wildfire being managed for resource benefits in the Big Sandy area of the southern Wind River Mountains. This fire was started by lightning last week and is currently about 350 acres in size. Wilderness visitors can still use the Fremont Trail that goes through the fire area, if they don't mind some smoke and seeing firefighters and helicopter activity. Those who'd prefer to be away from the fire still have two other trail choices at the Big Sandy trailhead that don't have fire activity on them. This fire will be allowed to burn until management objectives are met. Some firefighters are likely to be demobilized from this fire soon, given the weather prediction for rain or snow in the high country in the next couple of days.
    The Clear Creek Fire, approximately 180 acres today, is burning just east of Lower Green River Lakes. An area Closure is in effect for portions of the Highline Trail, and the Clear Creek and Slide Lake Trails. Even though this fire is in the wilderness, fire crews are actively suppressing it since they already have the Iron Creek Fire as a Fire Use for Resource Benefit burn. The fire is currently being called 50% contained and the cause is still under investigation.

Please see our Fire Update page for more detailed information about area fires and fire restrictions.

For current information about conditions in areas you wish to go on the Bridger-Teton National Forest, contact the local Ranger District office (Pinedale 307-367-4326, Big Piney 307-276-3375).

LaBarge Man Killed in Fall near Fremont Peak on Monday
A LaBarge, Wyoming man was killed Monday afternoon after falling to his death near Fremont Peak according to a news release from the Sublette County Sheriff's Office. Anton John Elmlinger, age 21, was hiking and rock climbing in the area northeast of Elkhart Park with his father, Jerry Elmlinger. They were climbing down towards Mistake Lake and were about 500 feet above the valley floor when the father accidentally dislodged a rock that fell down and hit Anton. The son fell approximately 100 feet. He lived for a short time and died from apparent head trauma.
   Because of the rugged terrain and location of the body, Tip Top Search and Rescue High Angle Team was called in to help remove the body so that an Air Idaho helicopter could take it out of the wilderness area. More information about the accident will be available in local papers on Thursday. (Sublette County Sheriff's Office News Release)

Weather in for a Change
Snow possible at higher elevations
A major change in the weather is on its way for much of Wyoming, according to the latest weather reports. A Pacific storm system moving across southwest Canada, Oregon and Washington should hit Wednesday night, bringing much colder air and widespread precipitation. Strong winds are expected with the initial cold front, then temperatures could drop as much as 50 degrees from what we've been having. The higher elevations above 8,500-9,000 feet may get snow mixed with rain.
    Hunters and campers in the mountains should be prepared for winter-like camping conditions begining Wednesday night and continuing through Friday morning. Anyone in the outdoors should be aware of the effects that cold and windy conditions can have leading to hypothermia if recreationists aren't prepared. Partial fire restrictions are still in effect prohibiting open campfires anywhere in Sublette County and on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Fuel stoves should be used for cooking and heating.

LOCAL FOCUS
Snowmobile Grass Drag Race
The Pinedale Snow Explorers Snowmobile Grass Drag Race will be held September 8th at the west end of Pinedale behind the Rocky Mountain Home Center. There is $1500.00 added purse, 80% payback. Pre-registration will be Friday night at Stockman's, 7-9 PM. Registration at the track: 8 - 9:30 AM. Drivers meeting at 9:30 AM. The race starts at 10 AM. Concessions will be sold at the track. For more information call Troy at 367-6368 or Brad at 367-2865. So come out and join the fun!

Labor Day Weekend Fun

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Lots of folks headed up to Granite Hot Springs between Pinedale and Jackson to take advantage of the gorgeous weather during the Labor Day, end-of-summer weekend. The Hot Springs is open year-round and is a popular destination for winter snowmobilers.

Monday, September 3, 2001
New Fires
Big Game Baiting Now Illegal
LOCAL FOCUS:
Cowgirl Cris is Back
Trudy's Take

Fire Updates
A new fire was reported Sunday afternoon in the Clear Creek drainage east of lower Green River Lakes near Clear Creek Falls. The Clear Creek Fire is approximately 100 acres in size and has prompted the Pinedale Ranger District to close portions of trails on the east side of lower Green River Lakes and in the Clear Creek and Slide Creek area. Clear Creek Natural Bridge is included in the closure area. At this time, the Green River Lakes campground, trailhead and lodge are not considered in eminent threat, but this will be monitored on a daily basis and evacuation actions taken if these areas are identified at risk. Visitors should be aware of firefighter activity on the Green River Lakes main road and helicopters flying overhead from Kendall Guard Station to the fire area. The Green River Lakes Campground is currently open and the Host has current information on the fire status.
   Hikers can still bypass the fire closure area on the Continental Divide Trail system by taking the Lakeside Trail on the west side of Lower Green River Lakes. The CDT to Roaring Fork and Gunsight Pass are not in the Closure area and are open.
   Although this fire is within the wilderness area, Forest officials are actively working to suppress this fire rather than manage it for resource benefit. District personnel are already stretched fairly thin due to the Iron Creek wilderness fire in the southern end of the Wind River Range, which is being allowed to burn under strict management guidelines.
  Currently 20 Type I firefighters and 10 local firefighters, plus one Type III helicopter are working on this fire. The cause of the Clear Creek fire is unknown at this time.

The Iron Creek Fire continues to burn in the Bridger Wilderness in Fish Creek Park three miles north of Big Sandy Campground and south of Dad's Lake. This fire is currently about 100 acres in size and is being allowed to burn to benefit resources since it is within the wilderness area. The fire is burning in a very rocky area at about 9,400 feet elevation. Originally started by lightning on Sunday, August 26th, this fire is considered a natural fire and being allowed to play its natural role in the ecosystem within strict perimeters. The fire will benefit the area by eliminating fuels for future fires, clearing underbrush that might hinder wildlife movement, creating new plant growth for wildlife next year, and adding nutrients to the soil, among other things. Currently 76 Interagency personnel and 3 helicopters are assigned to this fire.

Please see our Fire Update page for more detailed information about the Iron Creek fire, photos of the fire, info about other area fires, and fire restrictions.

For current information about conditions in areas you wish to go on the Bridger-Teton National Forest, contact the local Ranger District office (Pinedale 307-367-4326, Big Piney 307-276-3375). (more detailed fire info)

Big Game Baiting Now Off Limits in Cowboy State
WY Game & Fish
Using bait to hunt deer, as often seen in outdoor catalogs and television programs, as well as all other big game animals is now against the law in Wyoming.
The law, which was passed by the 2001 Wyoming legislature and took effect July 1, 2001, also applies to elk, antelope, bighorn sheep, moose and mountain goats.
   Game and Fish Department Assistant Chief Game Warden Terry Cleveland says it is now a violation to knowingly hunt big game over bait, as well as placing the bait for big game hunting purposes. He emphasizes the law does not apply to hunters in grain fields, hay fields, haystacks or around other accepted agricultural practices.
  The law prohibits "distributing or scattering salt, hay, grain, fruit, nuts or chemical mineral or other feed as an attraction or enticement to big game animals regardless of the kind and quantity." Scents and fragrances masking human scents often used by archers are exempt and remain legal.
   "Although big game baiting had not become widespread yet in Wyoming, the practice was growing and so was the outcry against it," Cleveland said. "The new law will help project a positive hunting image for Wyoming."
   The legislation was introduced by Rep. Marlene Simons of Beulah. The new law only applies to big game: elk, deer, antelope, moose, bighorn sheep and mountain goats. Black bear baiting is not affected by the law. Anyone convicted of baiting big game faces a maximum fine of $750, up to six months in jail and forfeiting up to six years hunting privileges. Anyone suspecting baiting is urged to call the "Stop Poaching" hotline at (800) 842-1934. Wyoming Game & Fish press release.

LOCAL FOCUS
Cowgirl Cris is Back
Actually, she never left, but some of her fans have written wondering where her weekly diary has been for the past couple of weeks. Nothing's wrong, she has just been extremely busy in the middle of haying season and all the chores of life on a ranch this time of year! Cris has been sharing her stories with us online for about three years now, and we hope you have been enjoying reading about life on a Wyoming ranch. If you missed her earlier stories, see the journal index on her web site for all the earlier adventures. Click on the link below for the latest stories from Cris and life "On the Ranch" with a Wyoming Cowgirl at www.wyomingcowgirl.com.

Trudy's Take
by Trudy Fry
As the summer officially comes to a close it is a time of reflection. There have been so many things that have happened, it is hard to keep track of them all. It has been a summer of beginnings. There have probably been a record number of weddings performed in this area plus several babies have been born. There have been new buildings and businesses in our community along with new people moving in to fill the openings in the communities and oil field. It has also been a time of endings and sad good-byes. We have experienced great losses this year. So many people that are vital to our small towns have passed away. Some from lingering illnesses and some from tragic unexpected illnesses and accidents. Our sadness and sympathy for the families and friends of these people is deeply felt. Words can't describe our feelings and trying to express our sentiments is difficult, if not impossible. The best we can do is to tell those that have suffered losses that we are in pain also and our choicest thoughts and prayers are with them. It is wonderful to see the way our communities are uniting to help us all get through this time of loss. May God bless each of us.

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