Native Plants Bring Shade and Better Water Quality to Lander’s Popo Agie River

The section of the Popo Agie River that runs through Lander is an important recreational spot: Fishing, kayaking, and playing in the water are just a few popular activities. But because of the lack of shade along the river banks, the water is too hot in the summer, making it a breeding ground for bacteria that are harmful to humans. Complicating things is the fact that much of the property with little vegetation that borders the river also is private. But the Popo Agie Conservation District and Healthy Rivers Initiative (HRI) came up with a plan to work with property owners to create shade along the river by providing the native plants that local youth community groups like 4H and Boys and Girls Scouts could plant. They just needed a little help to grow their idea into reality and reached out to LOR. LOR’s funding will help cover the cost of equipment (shoves, pruners, etc.) and professional services (e.g., contractors to move and haul rock) needed to carry out the work.