Building on Wyoming’s legacy of land conservation, the State Board of Land Commissioners Thursday voted 3-2 to approve the sale of the 640-acre Kelly Parcel to Grand Teton National Park. The $100 million sale will benefit Wyoming public schools and ensure this spectacular piece of land is public for Wyomingites and visitors to enjoy.
“Wyomingites affirmed our conviction to protect open space, habitat, wildlife migration corridors, agriculture, and hunting opportunities in perpetuity by including the Kelly Parcel within the boundary of Grand Teton National Park,” said Greater Yellowstone Coalition’s Wyoming Conservation Manager Jared Baecker. “Thousands of residents made it clear that this unique piece of land should become part of Grand Teton and remain free from subdivision development and open for a wide variety of recreational pursuits.”
The Kelly Parcel provides year-round habitat for elk, moose, and bison, seasonal habitat for migrating mule deer, and is along the Path of the Pronghorn. The parcel is also known for its high-quality recreation opportunities.
Grand Teton National Park is a ready and willing buyer of the Kelly Parcel. Selling the land to the park will keep the land publicly accessible, provide a financial windfall for Wyoming schools, preserve vital wildlife habitat, and ensure Americans can enjoy unparalleled views and recreation opportunities for generations to come.