Wyoming may auction off huge piece of pristine land inside Grand Teton

22

Wyoming officials have been considering the auction of substantial portions of pristine state-owned land within Grand Teton National Park for more than a decade. This strategy is aimed at compelling the U.S. government to allocate millions for the preservation of these properties. The latest proposal, up for a vote, concerns the auction of the last and arguably most valuable piece of land, a splendid one-square-mile (2.6-square-kilometer) property offering breathtaking views of the Teton Range and convenient road access. State Lands Director Jenifer Scoggin has recommended an initial bid of no less than $80 million. She justifies this decision by citing state law, which mandates obtaining the highest value from state-owned lands to generate revenue for public schools.

Governor Mark Gordon, a Republican, is one of the five statewide elected officials forming the land board responsible for this decision. He remains open to hearing public input before making a final decision and has not yet committed to voting for the auction. Public sentiment against the auction has been substantial, with hundreds of Wyoming residents participating in public meetings and submitting comments opposing the proposal over the past two months. Environmental groups have also rallied against the potential development of luxury houses and other projects in this ecologically sensitive area.

Secretary of State Chuck Gray, a member of the land board and a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, plans to vote against the auction. He questions the legitimacy of the $62.4 million appraisal value, considering the land to be “invaluable.” Gray also raises concerns about the short 60-day public comment period, suggesting that more time should have been provided for public input.

Previous sales of state mineral rights and land within the park have already generated over $62 million for Wyoming. However, negotiations over the sale of the Kelly Parcel, the most recent and significant sale, broke down and have continued for seven years. Governor Gordon recently discussed this issue with Interior officials in a meeting, but the willingness and ability of the federal government to purchase the land this time remain uncertain.

In summary, Wyoming is considering auctioning off valuable state-owned land within Grand Teton National Park, a decision that has garnered both support and opposition from various quarters. The outcome of this vote will have significant implications for the future of this pristine area.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Grand Teton Land Auction

More about Grand Teton Land Auction

• Wyoming Officials Consider Auctioning Off Land in Grand Teton
• State Lands Director Recommends Starting Bid for Grand Teton Land Auction
• Public Reaction and Environmental Concerns Over Grand Teton Land Auction
• Governor Mark Gordon’s Position on Grand Teton Land Auction
• Previous Sales of State-Owned Land in Grand Teton National Park
• Uncertainty Surrounding Federal Government’s Involvement in Grand Teton Land Purchase