Ricketts Conservation Foundation - National Loon Center Research Grants
Since 2018, the Ricketts Conservation Foundation (RCF) has studied loons in the Yellowstone Ecosystem. However, Joe Ricketts' commitment to loon conservation stretches back to 2013, when he funded loon conservation efforts in the Yellowstone Ecosystem, Minnesota, and Massachusetts. While the loons in Yellowstone are the southernmost population in North America, the vast majority of common loons are found in Canada, Alaska, and the northern tier of the lower 48 states (Photo 1). These birds also face conservation challenges, and RCF is doing its part to help these birds on a continental scale.
In 2025 RCF donated $1,000,000 towards the National Loon Center’s (NLC) new headquarters in Crosslake, Minnesota (Photo 2). In addition, RCF committed to providing $100,000/year from 2025 to 2029 to spur conservation-related research on Common Loons throughout North America.
Photo 2. Design of new National Loon Center headquarters in Crosslake, MN.
In the first year of funding conservation-related research, we initiated a range-wide genetics study with the Bird Genoscape Project at Colorado State University. Our goal is to better understand genetic variation in the Common Loon. This species is found throughout Canada, Alaska, and the northern tier of the lower 48 states. However, there are also breeding populations in Greenland and Iceland. We hope to obtain samples from all these populations so conservationists have a comprehensive understanding of their interactions, migration routes, and wintering grounds.
Currently, we are reviewing 12 great proposals for 2026 and now have the difficult decision to decide which to fund. Thankfully, RCF and NLC have an excellent scientific advisory council making these decisions, so we look forward to their decisions. Stay tuned!
A Wildlife-Friendly Fence Story
Fences are a major obstacle to wildlife migrations in the Yellowstone Ecosystem. Since its inception in 2018, the Ricketts Conservation Foundation (RCF) has partnered with Jackson Fork Ranch (JFR) to make wildlife friendly fence modifications to the bison fence that stretches along the upper Hoback River. Beginning in 2019, RCF worked with JFR and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) to install 22 wildlife crossings in the fence. This improved wildlife movements across the ranch greatly. In 2024, JFR decided to enhance the wildlife crossings even further. They proposed to design let-down fence sections up to 1200’ in length in targeted areas where known mule deer migration corridors cross the ranch.
Photo 1. Holes are drilled and hinges are placed at the ends of each section of fence to allow the fence to pivot.
After consulting with WGFD, RCF assisted with this effort in spring of 2025 by inventorying the identified migration corridors at Horse Pasture Draw and Nutting Draw. JFR then hired a local welding company to modify the fence posts. The welder added sleeves at the bottom of some posts, which allow for the post to be lifted off its base easily. Other posts have rebar stays that the fence was then tied to, with cups to hold the rebar in place on both the bottom and top of the fence post. In addition, by modifying the ends of each section, the fence can pivot (Photo 1), lay flat, and thus present less of an obstacle to migrating animals.
Once completed, these sections of fence were to be let down on October 15 (Photo 2), just in time for the fall mule deer migration. However, the Jackson Fork Ranch is surrounded primarily by the U.S. Forest Service Hoback Grazing Allotment, which permits seasonal grazing by cattle and horses. Wyoming is a fence-out state, so it was imperative to coordinate with neighboring users regarding the timing of letting the fence down. RCF coordinated with the Hoback Grazing Association so JFR could reach its goal to improve wildlife movement across the ranch without complicating roundup.
Photo 2. A section of fence that has been let down for wildlife passage.
RCF and JFR will continue to work with WGFD to monitor the use of these segments by migrating wildlife and determine if any additional modifications need to be made to the fence in the future.
As a private landowner, it’s important to continue learning about your property and how to align your vision with what takes place in the surrounding landscape. It’s never too late to improve your management when you find out something you didn’t know that you didn’t know. In this case JFR was unaware of the mule deer migration corridor when they erected the bison fence. However, once they were made aware of this, they worked with RCF to remedy the situation.
RCF continues to partner with WGFD, focusing on additional opportunities to improve mule deer migration movement within the Hoback River watershed in 2026. We will continue to support landowners that now know what they didn’t know before and choose to reduce their impact on the landscape through wildlife friendly fence improvements.
Stay tuned for more information in 2026.
Join the Team as an Experienced Bird Bander!
Applications Open Until Filled
About Us: Founded on the principle that conservation is everyone’s responsibility, The Ricketts Conservation Foundation (RCF) works with private and public partners to study, protect, and enhance the populations of at-risk species within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, while working to understand how our lands can be sustainably managed.
Job Summary: We are hiring an experienced bird bander to work on a long-term project assessing songbird response to wildfires and Aspen regeneration on Monument Ridge, near the town of Bondurant, Wyoming. Specifically, we are looking for someone highly knowledgeable of songbird mist netting and banding, aging and sexing techniques, an ability to identify western birds by sight and sound, physically capable of hiking 10+ miles daily in rugged, mountainous areas above 8000 feet elevation, and an enthusiasm to assist as needed with a variety of research projects. Familiarity with the IMBCR point count protocol is preferred but not required, as the selected candidate will attend an IMBCR training week run by Bird Conservancy of the Rockies in mid-May before arriving in Bondurant. Interested applicants with suitable experience may also extend the position into the fall to help with our songbird and owl migration stations.
The Experienced Bander will work with the foundation’s Lead Bander to help run our nine (9) MAPS banding sites in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The selected candidate will be responsible for operating several low to mid-volume MAPS stations with one or two mist net assistants (set up and taking down nets, extracting, banding, aging, and sexing birds as well as recording and entering data), and work with the lead bander at our high-volume sites. They will also help monitor passerine nest boxes, check cameras traps, conduct vegetation surveys, contribute social media posts, and possibly conduct IMBCR bird surveys. The Experienced Bander will also assist the Lead Bander with project management and crew supervision.
Summer Responsibilities (May - August): MAPS songbird mist netting and banding (70%) IMBCR point counts (5%) Vegetation Surveys (5%) Camera trap monitoring and maintenance (5%) Passerine nest box monitoring (5%) Office Tasks (Data entry, social media posts, Net repair, Gear inventory and maintenance) (10%)
Fall Responsibilities (September – November, tentative for 1 or 2 technicians): Owl migration mist netting and banding (50%) Songbird migration mist netting and banding (40%) Camera trap monitoring and maintenance (5%) Yellowstone Clark’s Nutcracker Surveys (5%)
Hours/Schedule: This is a full-time, seasonal position with a somewhat flexible start and end date. The work schedule is typically 10 days on and 4 days off, but weather and project requirements will ultimately determine the schedule. Overtime (1.5x hourly rate) will be provided for hours beyond 40 per week. The experienced bander typically works 5-10 hours of OT each week.
Field Conditions: The study area lies at 7,000’ - 10,000’ elevation, so mornings can be cold and frosty, even in the middle of the summer. Habitat types include aspen woodlands, mixed conifer, sagebrush steppe. Grizzly bear encounters are possible, but very infrequent. Shared housing and transportation for work is provided. Our MAPS banding stations are located on rugged areas of National Forest land, and our banders need to be able to stay sure-footed while carrying birds up and down steep slopes to get between net lanes and the banding table. Occasional use of personal vehicles for work occurs but is not required. Fuel expenses are reimbursed. Technicians will need their own camping equipment and field gear as well as secure their own transportation to and from Bondurant, WY (travel costs up to $400 will be reimbursed). Bondurant is a remote town with a population of less than 100 year-round residents. The closest amenities are in Jackson and Pinedale, each a 45-minute drive from town. Recreational opportunities in the surrounding area are truly limitless, with world class fly fishing, backpacking, rafting, climbing and two national parks.
Qualifications:Substantial songbird mist netting and banding experience required (processed a minimum of 500 adult passerines). Must possess knowledge of aging and sexing techniques and qualify as a sub-permittee on the banding permit.
Excellent hearing, sight, familiarity with identifying western birds, and note taking and organizational skills are required. Familiarity with Rocky Mountain tree and shrub species is helpful but not essential. Familiarity with sexing and aging using the Pyle Guide, and how to use both HP and WRP aging systems, is highly desired. Some previous experience maintaining camera traps, monitoring nest boxes, and driving large 4WD and manual transmission vehicles is also a plus.
Applicants should have earned a degree in wildlife biology, related discipline or be working towards completing a degree. A valid driver's license is required. Applicants should possess a strong work ethic, be a quick learner, have good navigational skills, be a team player, and be willing to share living spaces with coworkers. Ideally, candidates have some experience backpacking with camping and survey equipment into remote areas and knowledge of bear avoidance protocols. The bander must be in excellent physical condition, able to lift 50 pounds, hike up to 15 miles off trail at high altitude in steep terrain, sometimes with large areas of deadfall, tolerate early mornings, long hours, adverse weather, and be comfortable not using mosquito repellents while banding (DEET and handling birds does not mix).
Duration and Salary: May 12 (tentative) to early or mid-August with possibility of extension to mid-November $21/hour (40 hours a week plus some overtime) Up to $400 reimbursement for moving expenses (i.e. gas, lodging) both to and from Bondurant.
***Free housing is provided in a beautiful mountain valley, adjacent to working ranches with bison and horses. ***
To apply: In a single PDF, please send a cover letter and resume detailing how your experience and interests make you a suitable candidate as well as three references. Specify your desired start and end dates and whether you are interested in continuing through the fall season. Applicants should include a banding resume detailing locations where experience was obtained as well as rough totals of birds extracted and birds processed. Please send all materials to Josh Lefever at [email protected]. Applications will be accepted until January 31st, 2026; prior to the closing date, suitable applicants may be asked to interview, and highly qualified candidates may be offered a position early.
Join the Team as an Avian Technician!
Applications Open Until Filled
About Us: Founded on the principle that conservation is everyone’s responsibility, The Ricketts Conservation Foundation (RCF) works with private and public partners to study, protect, and enhance the populations of at-risk species within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, while working to understand how our lands can be sustainably managed.
Job Summary: We are hiring four avian technicians to work on a long-term project assessing songbird response to wildfires and aspen regeneration on Monument Ridge, near the town of Bondurant, Wyoming. Specifically, we are looking for candidates with previous avian point counting experience, an ability to identify western songbirds by sight and sound, knowledgeable with songbird mist netting and banding, physically capable of hiking 10+ miles daily in rugged, mountainous areas above 8000 feet elevation, and an enthusiasm to assist as needed with a variety of research projects. Familiarity with the IMBCR point count protocol is preferred but not required, as all technicians are required to attend an IMBCR training week run by Bird Conservancy of the Rockies in mid-May before arriving in Bondurant. We may retain one or two technicians to assist with our fall bird banding operations.
Technician responsibilities include assisting at our nine (9) MAPS stations (setting up and taking down nets, extracting birds, recording, and entering field data, conducting IMBCR bird surveys, monitoring passerine nest boxes, checking cameras traps, conducting vegetation surveys, and possibly assisting with Clark’s Nutcracker, Pinyon Jay, and Common Loon research projects in the Yellowstone Ecosystem. Technicians may be asked to contribute social media posts that describe their work for RCF.
Summer Responsibilities (May - August): MAPS songbird mist netting and banding (45%) IMBCR point counts (30%) Vegetation Surveys (9%) Camera trap monitoring and maintenance (5%) Passerine nest box monitoring (5%) Office Tasks (Data entry, social media posts) (5%) Assisting with Common Loon and/or Clark’s Nutcracker Projects (1%)
Fall Responsibilities (September – November, tentative for 1 or 2 technicians): Owl migration mist netting and banding (60%) Songbird migration mist netting and banding (25%) Camera trap monitoring and maintenance (5%) Yellowstone Clark’s Nutcracker Surveys (5%) Office Tasks (Data entry, social media posts) (5%)
Hours/Schedule: These are full-time, seasonal positions with somewhat flexible start and end dates. The work schedule is typically 10 days on and 4 days off, but weather and project requirements will ultimately determine the schedule. Overtime (1.5x hourly rate) will be provided for hours beyond 40 per week. Technicians typically work 0-5 hours of OT each week.
Field Conditions: The study area lies at 7,000’ - 10,000’ elevation, so mornings can be cold and frosty, even in the middle of the summer. Habitat types include aspen woodlands, mixed conifer and sagebrush steppe. Grizzly bear encounters are possible, but very infrequent. Shared housing and transportation for work is provided. Occasional use of personal vehicles for work may occur but is not required. Fuel expenses are reimbursed. Technicians will need their own camping equipment and field gear as well as secure their own transportation to and from Bondurant, WY (travel costs up to $400 will be reimbursed). Bondurant is a remote town with a population of less than 100 year-round residents. The closest amenities are in Jackson and Pinedale, each a 45-minute drive from town. Recreational opportunities in the surrounding area are truly limitless, with world class fly fishing, backpacking, rafting, climbing and two national parks.
Qualifications: Excellent hearing, sight, and a willingness to learn to identify western birds by sight and sound are required. Familiarity with Rocky Mountain tree and shrub species is helpful but not essential. Previous experience extracting passerines from mist nets is a must (minimum 100 passerines extracted). Familiarity with sexing and aging using the Pyle Guide, and how to use both HP and WRP aging systems, is a plus. Some previous experience maintaining camera traps, monitoring nest boxes, and driving large 4WD and manual transmission vehicles is also highly desirable. For those interested in staying for the fall season, previous owl banding experience is beneficial.
Applicants should have earned a degree in wildlife biology, related discipline or be working towards completing a degree. A valid driver's license is required. Applicants should possess a strong work ethic, be a quick learner, have good navigational skills, be a team player, and be willing to share living spaces with coworkers. Experience backpacking with camping and survey equipment into remote areas and knowledge of bear avoidance protocols is desirable. Technicians must be in excellent physical condition, able to lift 50 pounds, hike up to 15 miles off trail at high altitude in steep terrain, sometimes with large areas of deadfall, tolerate early mornings, long hours, adverse weather, and be comfortable not using mosquito repellents while banding (DEET and handling birds does not mix).
Duration and Salary: May 12 (tentative) to early or mid-August with possibility of extension to mid-November $18/hour (40 hours a week with some overtime) Up to $400 reimbursement for moving expenses (i.e. gas, lodging) both to and from Bondurant.
***Free housing is provided in a beautiful mountain valley, adjacent to working ranches with bison and horses. ***
To apply: Send a single document including a cover letter and resume detailing how your experience and interests make you a suitable candidate, as well as three references. Please specify your availability from mid-May to early August, and whether you are interested in joining our fall season. Highly qualified banding applicants should include a banding resume detailing locations where experience was obtained as well as rough totals of birds extracted, and birds processed. Please send all materials to Josh Lefever at [email protected]. Applications will be accepted until January 31st, 2026; prior to the closing date, suitable applicants may be asked to interview, and highly qualified candidates may be offered a position early.
2025 Summer Bird Banding Summary
View of the Wyoming Mountains from one of our Control sites. Aspen, Conifers, and Sagebrush are common components of the habitat at all our banding sites.Male MacGillivray’s Warbler, one of the most common birds that we catch, especially in regenerating Aspen at our Wildfire sites.Western Warbling Vireo is a common species that we catch just a few of at each of our sites. Yellow-rumped Warbler, male.Female Black-headed Grosbeaks. This species is a fun but uncommon capture for us. Of the 17 that we banded this year, 11 of them were at our Wildfire sites.Male Black-headed Grosbeaks. This species is a fun but uncommon capture for us. Of the 17 that we banded this year, 11 of them were at our Wildfire sites.Mist net setup in a dense young Aspen grove.American Kestrel, male, is the smallest species of Falcon in North America, and our crew was very excited to catch our first ever this summer.
Ricketts Conservation Foundation’s 2025 bird banding season ran from May 31st to August 8th. With the help of our fantastic crew of seasonal bird biologists, and a summer of beautiful weather, we had a fun and very successful season of catching and studying breeding songbirds.
RCF biologists have been using bird banding to study avian breeding activity in different habitats around Monument Ridge since 2018. Following the MAPS protocol, RCF biologists capture a variety of small songbirds, take a series of measurements to access the bird’s health, and attach a small, lightweight metal ring to the bird’s leg with a unique 9-digit number.
In our first year, 3 stations were established to compare bird communities in areas affected by wildfire, areas scheduled for Forest Service prescribed thinning and controlled burning, and areas of old growth Aspen without any influence of fire. Our banding operation has grown over the years, and 2025 was our first year operating 9 banding stations- 3 for each type of area. We operate each station once every 10 days, for 6 hours starting just before sunrise; each site was operated 7 times over the course of the season.
Collectively we caught 49 species of birds, banded 1,450 individuals, and processed 431 recaptures. Of our recaptures, 145 were banded in the previous year. All our recaptures are of individuals that were banded at one of our sites in the area; we have not yet ever captured a bird banded away from our sites at Monument Ridge. Our oldest recapture this summer was a female Brown-headed Cowbird, who was banded as an adult in 2020, and is at least 6 years old now. Our most common species banded were Dark-eyed Junco (148), American Robin (115), and MacGillivray’s Warbler (115). Above is a chart of all of our captures from this summer.
All the banding sites are comprised of 10 mist nets suitable for capturing small birds, and we see variation in species composition and abundance in different habitats. In our wildfire burned sites, we have young regenerating stands of Aspen trees, which serve as excellent habitat for songbirds. In 2025, we banded a total of 679 birds at our wildfire sites. Due to a lack of fire-induced Aspen regeneration at our other sites, we catch fewer birds there- 460 were banded at our treatment sites (which have been thinned by the Forest Service but not burned) and 311 were banded at our control sites. Looking back at our 3 most frequently banded species of birds, we can see differences in their abundance at different sites. For our most common species, Dark-eyed Junco, only 12% were banded at the wildfire burn sites, and 88% were banded at the un-burned sites. However, for MacGillivray’s Warblers 57% were banded at our 3 wildfire sites, and the other 43% were spread out across the 6 un-burned sites. And then there’s American Robins, which were caught by fairly even numbers across all 9 sites.
Adult male Rufous hummingbird with an ultra-lightweight transmitter attached to its back.Hummingbird just before being released.Hummingbird with banded leg.Band on a penny- this is the smallest size band that can be put on a bird.
This summer, RCF also had a hummingbird bander visit our sites to provide specialized training to our lead and experienced banders. Because of their very small size, hummingbirds require a separate permit to be allowed to band them. By training our banders to tag the hummingbirds captured at our sites, we plan to begin more closely studying how migrating hummingbirds are using the regenerating Aspen habitat in burned environments.
2025 was a historic year for RCF’s banding operation, and it would not have been possible without all the hard work of our seasonal banding crew- Amaya Bechler, Alan Moss, Wyatt Westerkamp, Aiden Gifford, and Cheyenne Esposito. Without their help and dedication, our terrific season would not have been possible! With the continued support of Ricketts Conservation Foundation, we look forward to continuing to use bird banding to study songbirds in the GYE and help inform forest management decisions to best conserve the beautiful diversity of migratory birds in our region.
Join the Team as an Associate Ecologist!
Applications Open December 1, 2025
About Us: Founded on the principle that conservation is everyone’s responsibility, The Ricketts Conservation Foundation (RCF) works with private and public partners to study, protect, and enhance the populations of at-risk species within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, while working to understand how our lands can be sustainably managed.
Job Summary: The Associate Ecologist is a full-time position that will work closely with the Conservation Project Manager to administer RCF projects in and around the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). The Associate Ecologist will work with the Director and other RCF employees to implement conservation projects, monitor, collect and analyze data, publish results in appropriate peer-reviewed and popular outlets, and represent RCF at professional and public events.
Responsibilities:
Coordinate, schedule and implement monitoring related to the Virtual Fence Conservation Partnership projects.
Effectively coordinate and communicate with partners regarding RCF projects.
Conduct vegetation monitoring, inventory, and data analysis.
Implement other fieldwork as necessary for project success.
Assist with planning and implementing outreach and education events throughout the GYE.
Familiarity with and knowledge of all RCF projects.
Communicate project results clearly via final reports, peer-reviewed print scientific journals, online scientific journals, books, book chapters.
Write and/or review blog articles and social media posts regarding RCF projects and mission.
Present on findings to scientific and conservation organizations.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of vegetation, soils and wildlife field monitoring methods.
Knowledge of low-tech erosion control structures and beaver dam analogs.
Understanding of watershed hydrology and rangeland health.
Knowledge of rangeland management practices.
Ability to manage projects with minimal supervision and work independently.
Experience working alone in remote locations and navigating with the use of a handheld GPS, OnX or other mapping applications.
Demonstrated ability to conduct scientific research and publish results.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong leadership skills.
Able to assist project leaders achieve their goals.
Ability to prioritize tasks.
Proficient with R, Python, ARC-GIS, Excel, and SQL database management.
Experience using, manipulating, and digitizing GIS or KML data for the purpose of creating maps, final reports, and project identification.
Commitment to wildlife conservation.
Desired Skills/Abilities:
Data visualization and graphic design skills.
Familiarity with the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and its flora and fauna.
Ability with chainsaws, ATVs, snowmobiles, manual transmission trucks, general electrical work, carpentry, mechanical proficiency, and small engine maintenance.
Backcountry skills and experience
Comfortable living in a rural environment (~35 miles from Jackson, WY, 40 miles from Pinedale, WY).
Education and Experience: A bachelor’s degree in a field related to rangeland management, wildlife habitat management, soil science, conservation, watershed management or similar field required. A minimum of two years of field experience demonstrating the knowledge and skills identified above.
Physical Requirements: Position includes working with employees and partners in the field, primarily within the GYE. Ability to hike and camp in rugged back country terrain, lift and carry a 50 lb. pack, use power tools (e.g., chain saw), and operate 4x4 vehicles required.
Pay, Benefits and Work Responsibilities:
Pay range: $50,000 – $60,000, depending upon qualifications of applicant.
Housing: On-site housing or housing allowance provided.
Working remotely: Allowable December 1 – February 28.
Full benefits include medical insurance, paid vacation, and IRA.
Applications: Applications will be reviewed starting January 1, 2026. Position is open until it is filled.
Please email your letter of interest, resume, and three references to Shari Meeks at [email protected]. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Riparian Restoration & Beavers
Beavers are considered ecosystem engineers. They are vulnerable to predators when on land, so they have adapted to avoid predation by building dams within streams. These dams create ponds where they can swim from their lodge to water’s edge to harvest the willow and cottonwood branches that they store in the bottom of the pond as a winter food supply. Their dams hold back water, creating wetlands that slow water movement across the landscape. This allows infiltration into the underlying soil and groundwater recharge, providing a source of water to maintain stream flow during dry periods.
While beavers are valuable for ecosystem function and maintenance, their pelts have also been found valuable in the fashion industry. Two hundred years ago western Wyoming was the epicenter of the global trade in beaver pelts. Felted beaver fur was turned into fashionable hats for European gentlemen, increasing the demand for beaver products. This led trappers to pursue beavers towards extirpation in almost every watershed in the Intermountain West. Fashions changed in the 1840s, but by then most of Wyoming’s beavers were gone. Even now, it’s believed that beaver numbers in the western USA are a fraction their historic levels. Beavers on the landscape aren’t without challenges, despite their ecological and economic value. They don’t distinguish between streams and ditches, creating conflicts with irrigators and other agricultural interests. Their constant building of dams requires a steady source of logs and branches that they procure by using their teeth to cut down trees and shrubs. This creates conflicts in areas where land managers seek to increase riparian vegetation to stabilize river channels and preserve wildlife habitat.
As fall arrives, this conflict becomes apparent locally. After a dry and warm summer, the Hoback River is very low, and the local beavers are getting ready for winter. They’re building dams across the river and use the resulting reservoirs to store the caches of Willow and cottonwood branches they will feed on during winter.
It takes a lot of branches to build these dams and stock the caches, and they take them from the surrounding riparian corridor.
We understand the ecological benefits of encouraging beavers to recolonize their historic ranges. However, we also recognize the need to protect riparian vegetation required by other wildlife to survive as well as the need for irrigation management. Ricketts Conservation Foundation is excited to explore solutions that will encourage a balanced approach to this complex natural resource issue in 2026.
Virtual Fence Conservation Partnership
Press Release – 9/15/25
Over the last two decades, agriculture technology has made its impact across the globe, with some of the greatest potential being in ranch technology. Various applications and innovations give ranchers the ability to monitor everything from the grass in their pastures to the grazing attributes of their herd. Virtual fencing is one of these technologies, which allows the rancher to not only observe livestock location, but also to manage that herd resulting in significant conservation benefits (Figure 1).
Despite the benefits, many ranch operations interested in this technology find that startup costs can be prohibitive. The Ricketts Conservation Foundation (RCF) is excited to release the Virtual Fence Conservation Partnership Program, where RCF partners with ranches to initiate virtual fencing and monitor for conservation benefit.
RCF is offering 100% cost share for base stations (up to $50,000) and 50% cost share for collars and neckbands (up to $100,000) over a four-year period. Ranchers enter into a four-year agreement with RCF, where both parties collaboratively develop anticipated outcomes, conservation goals, and a monitoring plan.
Interested ranching operations are encouraged to submit applications via https://form.jotform.com/252084643989067. The application period opens September 15 and closes November 15.
Ricketts Conservation Crew Kicks Off Field Season in Yellowstone
Field season is officially underway for the Ricketts Conservation Loon Crew, and we're excited to be back in Yellowstone National Park! So far, we’ve confirmed six active nests—an encouraging start to the season.
The loons in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem represent the southernmost breeding population of Common Loons in the world. It’s a small but mighty group, and their conservation is crucial. Because this population is so limited, protecting nesting sites from disturbance is one of our top priorities. Loons are incredibly sensitive to human activity during nesting season and are vulnerable to nest failure if approached too closely.
To help keep them safe, our team has established protective closures around known nesting areas. If you’re visiting the park this summer and see signage near lakeshores, it’s likely part of our efforts to give loons the space they need to raise the next generation.
During the early weeks of the field season, our crew conducts occupancy surveys. This means we’re out visiting historically occupied lakes to check for returning pairs, signs of nesting activity, or potential new territories.
Stay tuned for more updates from the field and if you’re in Yellowstone, keep your eyes (and ears) out for these iconic northern divers. Just remember to give them plenty of space to do their thing.
Awareness of Private Lands and Wildlife Migration
Here in western Wyoming, we are a part of an ecosystem unique to the nation, known as the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). This ecosystem is a vast area, spanning over 23 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Ecologically, the GYE is considered primarily intact, remaining wild and open space, as over 70% of the land within it is owned by the United States Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service. Most of this public land is considered high elevation with a short growing season. The higher elevation forests and alpine habitats remained unclaimed during the settlement of the West, and after the passage of the Forest Reserve Act of 1891, became protected federal lands and in 1907, National Forests.
Figure 1: Land ownership and its distribution throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE).
While private lands in Wyoming make up 13% of the GYE, they hold the key to critical habitat connectivity and health throughout the western half of Wyoming. During settlement of the West in the early 1800’s, settlers established their homesteads at lower elevations along existing streams and riparian areas, allowing them to divert water and create hay meadows to support livestock. When the settlers began irrigating, they inadvertently expanded riparian areas. Their hay meadows not only replenished local aquifers through flood irrigation but have altered the landscape such that they are vital for many wildlife species.
To understand why private lands hold a vital role in ecosystem health in comparison to public lands, one must understand the movements of native wildlife species. Large ungulates such as moose, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and elk have natural migration patterns where these animals travel from winter range to summer range every year. Typically, summer range can be found in the high elevation lands of our national forests and parks. As snow accumulates, these animals migrate out of the high elevation habitats into lower elevations that have typically milder winters, crossing thousands of miles of fence on their journey. These animals depend on the riparian, wetland, sagebrush, and foothill shrubland habitat types that dominate our private lands for survival during the most stressful months of winter. Not only are these lands critical for ungulates, but because they are situated on perennial streams, management of private lands directly impacts the health of aquatic life and fisheries.
Figure 2: Crucial ranges for Wyoming wildlife and their intersection with private lands.
The heart of the Ricketts Conservation Foundation is a belief that conservation is everyone’s responsibility. The Natural Resources Conservation Service defines natural resource conservation as “the careful maintenance and upkeep of a natural resource to prevent it from disappearing. A natural resource is the physical supply of something that exists in nature, such as soil, water, air, plants, animals, and energy.”
Figure 3: Sunset on Tosi from the Hoback in Wyoming
Cumulatively, private lands hold a critical role in watershed and landscape health. Everything is interconnected, from the high mountain ridges to the valleys and open spaces below. Because of this, it is imperative for all landowners to understand the current state of natural resources on their property, no matter how large or small your ownership tract is.
