BAIROIL, Wyo. — A $6,000 donation by Pacific Power is helping the Bureau of Land Management improve recreation and wildlife habitat at Lost Soldier Creek and nearby A & M Reservoir.

BLM purchased a new pump to improve water levels at A & M Reservoir, and will install the old A & M pump at Lost Soldier Creek. Electric power must be hooked up to place a pump at the creek. 

Bringing more reliable water flows into Lost Soldier Creek will support habitat for sage grouse, beaver, antelope and mule deer.

“Currently, water flowing into Lost Soldier Creek is surplus water that is not re-injected by the oil field,” explained Lauren Lambertsen, U.S. Bureau of Land Management range staff assistant in the Rawlins field office. “This source periodically stops due to pump breakdowns or system maintenance. If stoppages occur during a hot, dry period, it has negative consequences to wildlife.”

Lambertsen added that increased water levels at A & M Reservoir will allow greater recreation opportunities – such as fishing and boating – as well as improving the overall health of the riparian system. Elk, wild horses and antelope have been seen using the A & M Reservoir. The reservoir is one of the few water sources found along the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDNST).  By installing a larger pump at the reservoir, water levels can be maintained even when excess water supplied by Merit Energy Company is no longer available.

Sage grouse are found in the vicinity of both A & M Reservoir and Lost Soldier Creek.  There is nesting habitat and late brood rearing areas within both project boundaries.  A conservation plan for sage grouse has been developed for the State of Wyoming.

“Many folks traveling the National Trails System also use this area for overnight camping,” said Craig Nelson, regional community manager for Pacific Power. “Water is scarce in this area, and this project will be an immense help.”

The BLM hopes to complete the pump installations by summer 2006.

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