A new piece of equipment will help accelerate wildlife-friendly fencing efforts across the region, thanks to recent support from dedicated conservation partners.
The Sheridan Community Land Trust (SCLT) has acquired a wire winder using a $7,500 grant from Bowhunters of Wyoming and a $700 grant from North American Pronghorn Foundation. The tool will be used collaboratively by SCLT and the Powder River Fence Initiative to remove outdated and unnecessary fencing across Northeast Wyoming and Southeast Montana.
For those doing the work, the impact is immediate. Wire winders allow volunteer crews to safely roll up old barbed wire and woven fence, dramatically reducing the time and labor required for removal. “A wire winder really changes the game for fence removal,” said John Graves, SCLT Director of Conservation and Resource Management. “Instead of wrestling with loose wire by hand, you can roll it up cleanly and safely. It saves time, reduces strain, and makes the whole process more efficient for everyone involved.”
The work is part of a broader effort to improve habitat connectivity and promote wildlife-friendly fencing practices. Removing old or unneeded fence can reduce injury risks and allow animals to move more naturally across the land. “Wildlife-friendly fence projects are about more than just taking out old wire,” Graves relayed. “They’re about reconnecting habitat and making sure animals can move more easily across the landscape. It’s a practical step that has a real impact on the health of the land.”
With new tools in hand and strong partner support behind the work, there are also upcoming opportunities for volunteers to be part of these on-the-ground efforts.
Freezeout Stock Driveway Fence Removal Project – June 5 and possibly June 6
Volunteers are invited to help remove approximately one mile of outdated barbed wire along the Freezeout Stock Driveway northwest of Dayton. The project begins June 5, with additional work on June 6 if needed. Participants will meet at 9:00 a.m. at Scott Bicentennial Park in Dayton before heading to the site. Volunteers should come prepared for a full day in the field, with appropriate clothing, water, and gear; tools will be provided. This project supports safer wildlife movement and responsible land management across both public and private lands.
Learn more and sign up to volunteer at on the Freezeout project here.
Box X Ranch Fencing Project – June 13–14
Powder River Coalition Volunteer Day will be at the Box X Ranch near Alzada, MT, on Saturday, June 13, and Sunday, June 14, from 8-4 daily. We will be removing and/or modifying 8.1 miles of wildlife-unfriendly fence to provide for better wildlife movement. Lunch, dinner, snacks, and water will be provided! Please wear work clothes with closed-toed shoes, and don’t forget work gloves, eye protection, a refillable water bottle, and fencing tools if you have them. We will have extra tools, so do not worry if you do not have any.
