NE Wyoming News

Congresswoman Harriet Hageman has introduced two legislative measures aimed at stopping the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Buffalo and Rock Springs Resource Management Plans (RMPs). According to Hageman, these plans effectively close off over 11 million acres of Wyoming's public lands by changing their management status from multiple-use to non-use or restricted access. The Congresswoman argues that this shift will severely impact key sectors of Wyoming's economy, including grazing, mining, recreation, and energy development.

Hageman expressed strong opposition to the RMPs, stating: “BLM’s Buffalo and Rock Springs RMPs are nothing short of a federal sabotage of Wyoming’s economy, heritage, and way of life.” She criticized the Biden-Harris administration for prioritizing environmental agendas over what she sees as responsible land management practices. "This is not about conservation—it is about control," she added.

The background information provided highlights specific restrictions imposed by the BLM plans. In Buffalo, new federal coal leasing on nearly 50 billion tons of reserves is prohibited, with existing leases expected to expire by 2041. In Rock Springs, more than one million acres of productive land face new restrictions. Hageman described the decision-making process behind these plans as flawed and rushed.

Looking ahead, Hageman intends to reintroduce her legislation in the 119th Congress and is hopeful for support under a Republican majority and President Trump's leadership. Her proposed bills aim to return local control over Wyoming's public lands and maintain coal, grazing, and energy development as vital components of the state's economy.