GILLETTE, Wyo. — A Crook County ranching family was one of several recently recognized with 2024 Landowner of the Year awards, according to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
The awards recognize landowners who have demonstrated outstanding wildlife management and implemented habitat improvement and conservation techniques on their properties, Game and Fish says.
Stewards of the land open access to research and recreation on thousands of acres across Wyoming and maintain habitat for wildlife.
Operating the Bush Ranch in northeast Wyoming, Jim and Bobbie (Tiny) Bush run an expansive property boasting diverse wildlife habitats and focus primarily on bison alongside some cattle.
“The Bush Ranch is a haven for native species like mule deer, pronghorn, sage-grouse, and various grassland birds,” Game and Fish says. “Intact sagebrush on their land plays a crucial role for sage grouse and helps to maintain genetic connectivity across Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, and North Dakota.”
Per Game and Fish, Jim has collaborated closely with the department in sage grouse conservation, which began when he reported a previously unknown lek on the family’s property. The revelation came at a time when landowners were unwilling to volunteer sage grouse locations, and the Bush Ranch became pivotal in collecting genetic data from leks.
Outside of data contribution, the Bush Family actively enhanced sage grouse habitat and were early participants in the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s sage grouse initiative program seeking to improve habitat, Game and Fish says.
“Currently, Jim works with multiple agencies to remove encroaching conifers to further their conservation efforts,” Game and Fish said. “The Bush Family, including Jim’s late father, Dean, have always welcomed the department onto the ranch, supporting various activities from hunting access to conservation initiatives.
Others recognized as 2024 Landowners of the Year are:
- Pete Arambel, Midland Sheep Co., South Fork Sheep Co., and Dunton Sheep Co.
- Tom and Mike Triplett, TMT Ventures BCR, LLC
- Dale Thrash, Fort Hill, LLC
- John and Joy Erramouspe, G&E Livestock Inc.
- Al and Barb Johnson, Terry Creek Ranch
- Fred and Patricia Hansen, Hansen Ranch
