Wyoming Game and Fish Presented Conservation Awards
Landowners were honored for significant contributions to wildlife habitat and public hunting access across the state.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Hunting
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The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission awarded the 2026 Landowner of the Year honors to James and Jen Sewell for their conservation efforts on the McCarty Canyon Ranch. The commission recognized the couple along with four other land-owning parties for their dedication to habitat improvement.
Why it matters
The awards highlight the critical role private landowners play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and expanding recreational opportunities for hunters. These practices ensure the long-term sustainability of migratory routes and wildlife populations across Wyoming.
James and Jen Sewell converted 10 miles of internal fencing to wildlife-friendly designs. Additionally, other recipients opened 871 acres to public hunting.
The players
Wyoming Game and Fish Commission
This state agency is responsible for the conservation of wildlife and the management of hunting and fishing programs in Wyoming.
James and Jen Sewell
These landowners own and operate the McCarty Canyon Ranch south of Rawlins.
United States Department of Agriculture
This federal executive department provides leadership on food, agriculture, and natural resources.
The details
The Sewells have managed the 9,200-acre McCarty Canyon Ranch, located 40 miles south of Rawlins, since 2020 by implementing GPS cattle collar tracking to protect conservation zones. They collaborated with the United States Department of Agriculture to restore over 1,400 acres of habitat near Little Savery Creek.
Timeline
James and Jen Sewell purchased the McCarty Canyon Ranch in 2020.
The commission presented the 2026 Landowner of the Year Awards on September 22, 2026.
Culture Shift
This recognition reflects a broader cultural shift toward private land stewardship that prioritizes shared wildlife resources. It mirrors a growing nationwide trend where ranchers integrate conservation and public access as central components of modern land management.
These awards directly benefit outdoor enthusiasts by increasing the availability of managed land for public hunting. Readers can look for updated maps and access points resulting from these new partnerships in future hunting seasons.
The takeaway
Effective wildlife management often requires a collaborative approach between state agencies and private agricultural producers. Implementing wildlife-friendly fencing and habitat restoration can yield long-term benefits for both livestock operations and local migratory species.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's efforts to expand Hunting access and wildlife stewardship.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bigfoot99-KTGA.
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Should private landowners be responsible for maintaining wildlife habitats on their own property?
