In a recent government meeting, Lander County representatives highlighted pressing environmental issues and the importance of collaboration across political boundaries. The discussions were led by Pam Harrington, a new member of the Lander County Commission, who emphasized the county's unique geographical and ecological characteristics, noting that 85% of the county consists of public lands.

Harrington presented a dual focus on renewable energy and the management of wild horse populations, both of which pose significant challenges for the region. She pointed out that the overpopulation of wild horses has led to severe degradation of rangelands, with key perennial grasses disappearing. Harrington shared her firsthand observations from a recent assessment conducted with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), revealing alarming signs of environmental distress, including areas where the grass roots have died, indicating irreparable damage.

The commissioner expressed optimism about future management efforts, stating that the county is working to prepare the necessary paperwork to initiate horse gathers by 2025. This proactive approach aims to restore balance to the ecosystem and address the pressing issue of overgrazing by wild horses.

Additionally, Harrington acknowledged the importance of tribal inclusion in discussions about land management, thanking committee members for their commitment to this critical aspect. The meeting underscored the interconnectedness of natural resources and the need for cooperative strategies to address environmental challenges that transcend county lines.