Campbell County

Many of the coal seams that underlie much of northeast Wyoming’s ranchland caught fire after wildfires moved through the area last summer. They present several risks for landowners and the fire department.

The town of Wright will have its air quality monitored for the next year or so. This comes after a national group gave the air a failing grade.

Last year’s huge wildfire season likely ignited the coal seams, which are like unattended campfires simmering. Counties will look to federal dollars to help manage them, but it’s unclear if that funding will still exist.

Stakeholders are recognizing the need to adapt to changing energy markets, but complicated applications make it harder for them to earn federal funding.

An evacuation order is still in effect for the residents of Borderline Estates and Ranchets. The Short Draw Fire is expected to continue to grow due to forecasted winds.

Gillette recently hosted some 55,000 people for Camporee – and looks to host more, perhaps smaller events, in the future.

An event bringing 50,000 people to Gillette will take place in August.

Campbell County is one of seven communities in the country to enroll in a federally-funded program focused on strengthening economies that rely on coal. The Building Resilient Economies in Coal Communities initiative connects counties and towns to trade strategies and support local leaders.

Terri Lesley is suing the Campbell County Library System and members of the Bennet family

The county was chosen by the state to launch a pilot program in the hope that it can eventually be implemented in other counties, reduce recidivism, and create productive members of society.