Repairing power line Repairing power line The Big Piney/Marbleton Volunteer fire department responded to a small grass fire ignited by sparks when a bird apparently shorted out wires on a power pole east of Big Piney on Saturday, May 12th. A repairman from Rocky Mountain Power overheard the fire dispatch call on the radio and was on the scene within minutes. The fire crew hosed down the smoldering grass and power was restored to the neighborhood in less than an hour. The grass in fields is already very dry in places and fires can spread very quickly. In the past several weeks, firefighters have responded to several controlled burns that have escaped control. Photo by Dawn Ballou.

Sheep Shearer in Big Piney May 20 (posted 5/15/12)
Sublette County Woolgrowers
Sublette County Woolgrowers are hosting a sheep shearer from Utah in Big Piney on Sunday, May 20, 2012. He welcomes large and small flocks of sheep. Shearing starts at 7:30 A.M. until around noon on Sunday the 20th. For more information, location, etc. call 307-260-8431.

Additional contact:
Nancy Hanson
Vice Pres. Sublette County Woolgrowers
P.O. Box 1020
Big Piney, Wyoming 83113
307-260-8431

Cottonwood area prescribed burn to begin May 8th (posted 5/8/12)
In the Wyoming Range
Editor’s Note: The Bridger-Teton National Forest hopes to begin the Cottonwood II prescribed burn on Tuesday, May 8th. This controlled burn is in the North and South Cottonwood drainages and Bare Pass near Red Castles in the Wyoming Range, on the Big Piney Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Smoke from the fire may be visible from around the Upper Green River Valley. Fire personnel will be managing and monitoring this burn activity. For questions or concerns, contact the Big Piney Ranger District at 307-276-3375. Below is the U.S. Forest Service’s media release about this prescribed burn.
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Bridger-Teton Plans Prescribed Burn

Big Piney, Wyo. – The Bridger-Teton National Forest plans to conduct a prescribed burn in the Cottonwood area beginning sometime in the next couple of weeks.

The Cottonwood II prescribed burn is located approximately 20-miles west of Daniel, WY on the Big Piney Ranger District. The project is 1,093 acres in size and consists of several units within the North and South Cottonwood drainages and Bare Pass near Red Castles. Fire managers are hoping to begin ignition as early as next week. Burn operations may last through mid-June depending on fuel and weather conditions.

The primary objective of the burn is to increase aspen regeneration and reduce encroaching conifer. Additional benefits will be to increase forage conditions for wildlife habitat and reduce hazardous fuels build-up while restoring fire-adaptive ecosystems.

This vegetation treatment is an interagency cooperative effort with Bureau of Land Management, Wyoming Game & Fish Department, Sublette County Fire, and Teton Interagency Fire.

For more information about this project, contact the Big Piney Ranger District at 307-276-3375 or visit www.tetonfires.com.

Sage-grouse financial incentives talk May 17 (posted 5/7/12)
In Marbleton
Sublette County Conservation District
Landowners and producers in Sublette County are invited to a special talk that will inform them of programs with financial incentives for them to enhance rangeland sustainability on Greater Sage-grouse habitat on their lands. The talk will take place on Thursday, May 17th, from 1-3PM at the Marbleton Town Hall. Come and learn about what is available for eligible landowners, as well as how to become eligible for incentives from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Farm bill. For more information, call Meghann Durbrow at the NRCS at 307-367-2257 X113.

Encana supports Big Brothers Big Sisters (posted 4/30/12)
One-to-one mentoring programs
Joint media release
Encana Oil & Gas (USA) Inc. made a contribution to the Greater Wyoming Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) Sublette County branch to sustain its one-to-one mentoring program for community youth. Funds will be used to support and develop two core programs, community-based and site-based mentoring.

"The Big Brothers Big Sisters programs demonstrate how time devoted to create caring relationships can truly influence youth in a positive and encouraging way. Building that bond can help them gain confidence, overcome challenges and appreciate life," said Randy Teeuwen, Encana USA community relations advisor. "We are proud to support this organization, and help foster stronger youth and stronger communities in Sublette County."

Established in 2004, BBBS offers two core programs to youth in Pinedale, Marbleton and Big Piney. Its community-based program matches volunteers, "Bigs", with youth, "Littles", to provide individualized time and attention on a consistent, monthly basis. In the site-based program, Bigs go to the Little’s schools to mentor and spend time with them during the school day.

"We believe every child has the ability to succeed and thrive in life. Our mentoring makes a significant difference for the youth we serve, by providing another caring adult in our Littles’ lives," said Molly Bredehoft, BBBS director of community engagement. "The matches we create help children reach their full potential, avoid risky behavior and strive for educational success."

According to Bredehoft, research has demonstrated that the BBBS services are productive and promising. A study conducted by Public/Private Ventures found that youth enrolled in BBBS are 46 percent less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 27 percent less likely to being using alcohol, and 52 percent less likely to skip school.

Open to youth ages 5-17, BBBS has no requirements for youth to participate, and hopes to serve every child that needs or wants a mentoring relationship. Currently, 42 children are enrolled in the program, 18 in the community-based program, 22 in the site-based program, and two in the enrollment process.

"Each year we anticipate continued growth and interest in our program, and now have several relationships that have lasted over one year. Our longest to date is seven years and still going strong," said Bredehoft. "We create matches carefully and with plenty of consideration to ensure that it’s a fulfilling experience for both Big and Little."

That objective stands true for Brittany Andreasen, a senior at Pinedale High School.

"I became a Big because I wanted to change someone's life. And I did. How many of us can honestly say that we've truly and deeply made a difference for someone? Although I’m just in high school, I'm well on my way to becoming a better person because of my experience as a Big."

Contact Molly at Big Brothers Big Sisters Sublette County branch for more information to enroll your child in the program, or become a volunteer. Please call 307-367-8900.

Senior Honor Society names new members (posted 4/12/12)
University of Wyoming
Top University of Wyoming students are new members of Mortar Board, the National Senior Honor Society. Selection as a member of Mortar Board is one of the highest honors that a UW senior can achieve. Mortar Board recognizes students who have excelled -- in and out of the classroom -- based on scholarship, leadership and service. Mortar Board members participate in many projects and activities throughout the year, both on campus and in the Laramie community.

New members from western Wyoming are:
Big Piney -- Kailey Barlow, agricultural business.
Green River -- Cameron Finley, molecular biology.
Jackson -- Lisa Baldock, dietetics.
Kemmerer -- Amy Lockwood, communication disorders.
Riverton -- Danielle Johnson, nursing.
Rock Springs -- Elena Monteleone, psychology; Dakota Roberson, electrical engineering.
Thermopolis -- Katherine Donahue, kinesiology and health promotion.

Related Links:
www.uwyo.edu University of Wyoming

Local Contact Numbers
Big Piney Town Hall
PO Box 70
Big Piney, WY 83113
307-276-3554
E-mail: tbpiney@yahoo.com
Mayor: Phillip Smith
www.townofbigpiney.com

Marbleton Town Hall
10700 US 189
Marbleton, WY 83113
307-276-3815
E-mail: marbletontown@hotmail.com
Mayor: Jim Robinson

Flicks & Pins Entertainment Center
Open Sunday through Thursday from 3:00PM to 10:00PM
Friday & Saturday 3:00PM to Midnight
Phone 307-276-4062 for movie times
http///www.townofbigpiney.com/FlicksnPins.html

Big Piney Ranger District
Bridger-Teton National Forest
P.O. Box 218
Big Piney, WY, 83113
307-276-3375 or 276-5800/5200
Fax: 307-739-5235/276-5835
www.fs.fed.us/btnf/

Sublette County Courthouse
21 S Tyler, Pinedale, WY 82941
Big Piney Direct Line 307-276-3827
Marbleton Annex 307-276-3735
Pinedale Information: 307-367-7722

Sublette County Sheriff's Department
PO Box 701
Pinedale, WY 82941
Marbleton: 307-276-5448
Pinedale: 307-367-4378

Big Piney Post Office
401 Budd Avenue
307-276-3772
1-800-275-8777

Sublette County School District #9
Superintendent's Office: 307-276-3322
Big Piney High School: 307-276-3324
Big Piney Middle School: 307-276-3315
Big Piney Elementary School: 307-276-3313
Big Piney Pool: 307-276-9966
www.sublette9.org


Southwest Sublette County Pioneers Senior Citizen Center
429 E First St, Marbleton, WY
P.O. Box 33
Big Piney, WY 83113
Phone: (307) 276-3249
Fax (307) 276-3249
E-mail: southwest001@centurytel.net
Open 8:00am to 4:00pm
Lunch at 12:00 noon Tue. Wed. Thurs. (starting July 1, 2008)
Joan Mitchell / Director

Green River Valley Cowbelles
www.greenrivervalleycowbelles.com

More Area Information:
Sublette County Chamber of Commerce (Pinedale)
307-367-2242 or 1-888-285-7282
www.sublettechamber.com

Mountain Man Country tourism website
www.mountainmancountry.com
Sublette County Joint Tourism Promotion Board

BigPiney.com (Pinedale Online!)
307-276-5699 or 307-360-7689 (days, evenings, weekends ok)

Sublette County Fair
July - August
The Sublette County Fair is packed with entertainment and fun. There is something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the many highlights is the Lil' Buckaroo Rodeo. The audience holds their breath as these young cowboys and cowgirls try their hand at bronc riding. The evening ends with the youngest contestants competing in the stick horse barrel race. The greased pig contest is another favorite, the crowd roars with laughter watching the wave a kids overtaking the slimy critters.

Spend some time viewing the livestock shows and watch the participants as they receive their awards for a job well done. Enjoy the wonderful food which some how tastes more delicious in the atmosphere of the fair festivities. Finish the night off at the rodeos with many local cowboys and cowgirls participating in the fast paced events. Visit the Sublette County Fair web page to enjoy pictures from previous years fairs.

For more information visit - www.sublettecountyfair.com.

Green River Valley Museum
Open June through October
The Green River Valley Museum is located on the main street in Big Piney. Artifacts from prehistoric Indians, pioneers, homesteaders and other various groups that have settled this area are on display at the museum. Many of the items displayed at the museum were donated by local families. 'Hard Hats and Stetsons' is the annual fundraiser for the museum. The name of the fundraiser itself reflects how important the cattle and oil industry have been for this valley.

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 Noon until 4:00 PM from June into October (opening date varies, so watch for announcements on the specific date each year). Admission is by donation. Special tours can be arranged by calling Museum Director Jeannie Lockwood at 307-276-3637.

For more information visit www.grvm.com

Chuckwagon Days
Over July 4th
Chuckwagon Days takes place each year over the 4th of July holiday in Big Piney. There is a Lil' Buckaroo Rodeo, a parade down Big Piney's main street followed by a free BBQ at the Sublette County Fairgrounds, an afternoon rodeo, street dance and late evening fireworks (on the 4th).

The "Chuckwagon Chug" a 5k and 10k Walk/Run, will be held on July 4th, before the Big Piney Parade. Start/Finish is at the Big Piney High School parking lot. There will be prizes for top finishers and gift bags for all contestants.

More information about Chuckwagon Days can be found here: www.ChuckwagonDays.com

Local Lodging
If you are looking for local lodging and places to stay in the Big Piney-Marbleton areas, be sure to check the Sublette County Chamber of Commerce website under lodging. Big Piney and Marbleton are located about 35 miles south of Pinedale, so look under motels, RV parks and campgrounds specific to our towns.
Lodging Links:
Bed & Breakfasts, Cabins, Motels, Guest Ranches, RV
www.sublettechamber.com

Camping near Big Piney & Marbleton
The closest campgrounds are located on the Big Piney Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. They offer two developed campgrounds and many opportunities for dispersed camping in the Wyoming Range west of Big Piney and Marbleton. The forest boundary is approximately 20 miles from local businesses and town services. For detailed information, contact the district office at 307-276-3375.

Sacajewea Campground Located 25 miles west of Big Piney. This campground has 26 sites, basic amenities, and is open June 15th through September 30th. The camping fee is $7.00 per site, per night. This campground has running water, an on-site host, and is well maintained. No electricity, showers or phone.

Middle Piney Lake Campground This is a primitive campground located further down the road from the Sacajewea Campground. This camp area is next to Middle Piney Lake and has 5 tent sites, tables and pit toilets. NO running water, electricity, showers or phone service. NO fees. Because of the narrow winding road to this campground, it is not recommended to take trailers to the lake site.

Forest Service Cabins Big Piney Ranger District offers two Forest Service work centers for rent for overnight stays. One is located at Snider Basin and the other in the Hoback. Contact the Big Piney office for more information on availability and fees.

NOTICE ABOUT BEARS: These campgrounds are in bear country. Both black bears and grizzly bears inhabit the Wyoming mountain range. Visitors are strongly encouraged to practice clean camping techniques and store attractants in a manner that makes them unavailable to bears. Bear-proof canisters are available for rent from the Big Piney Ranger District office. Bear-proof dumpsters are located at various locations at campgrounds and recreation areas on National Forest land.

Dispersed Camping:
There are practically unlimited opportunities for dispersed camping on the Bridger-Teton National Forest near Big Piney/Marbleton. The forest boundary is approximately 20 miles from town. Stay limit is 16 days in any one location. Campers should either bring their own water or boil water obtained from sources in the outdoors to avoid getting sick from organisms that live in lakes and streams. Do not drink untreated surface water. Dispersed camping is available along the Piney, Cottonwood and LaBarge Creek drainages.

Camping on BLM land
There are no developed campgrounds on BLM land near Big Piney or Marbleton, however there are many places for dispersed camping for those who are prepared to bring their own drinking water and camp without developed facilities. For more information, contact the Pinedale Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management in Pinedale.

Private RV Campgrounds
There are several private businesses that offer RV campsites for overnight and extended stays. Most have power, water and sewer hookups. Click here to our sister website, Pinedale Online, for info about private RV campgrounds and services.

Related Links:
Bridger-Teton National Forest/Big Piney Ranger District
Sublette County Chamber of Commerce

Big Piney, Wyoming, "Ice Box of the Nation"

Big Piney & Marbleton
Ice Box of the Nation
Big Piney is the oldest settlement in Sublette County, Wyoming and was named by Dan B. Budd for the Piney Creeks. In 1879, Daniel B. Budd and his partner Hugh McKay brought a thousand head of cattle from Nevada hoping to ship them at Point of Rocks, but winter caught up to them here in the Green River Valley. The following year Dan Budd moved his family here and that is how the settlement of this town began. Big Piney was called "Ice Box of the Nation" when it was officially made a weather station in 1930. Big Piney had the coldest year round average temperature of any place nationally.

It's a curiosity, considering most Wyoming towns are few and far between, that Big Piney and Marbleton would only be a mile apart. They have separate post offices and town governments. Big Piney was incorporated on July 5, 1913. In the early days there was a lot of drainage problems with the site on which Big Piney was built. So Charles Budd, eldest son to Dan B Budd had hope to build the town up on the bench to alleviate this problem. Charles did establish Marbleton on the bench, in late 1913, but it never replaced Big Piney. Any attempts to combine the two towns has been unsuccessful. The truth is people here kinda' like it that way. Both towns cooperate with each other, they have a common school. The citizens of these two towns take a lot of pride in the growth of their little metropolis over the past years and think the founders would be proud too. Both communities have thrived in the last several decades because of the oil and gas industry. In the 1980's Marbleton recieved it's own post office, because of the number of people moving to the area.

To contribute information to this community website,
please e-mail: info@bigpiney.com or info@marbleton.com.
Phone: 307-276-5699 • Fax: 307-276-5414