Opportunities for Sublette County 4-Hers to raise livestock and participate in agricultural education programs are expected to increase due to an energy company's land donation.
QEP Energy Company, a subsidiary of Denver-based QEP Resources Inc., is donating approximately 35 acres to Sublette County 4-H in an agreement with the Sublette County 4-H Council, says Robin Schamber, Sublette County 4-H educator.
The donation will create the Sublette County 4-H Agricultural Center and the Rose Skinner Preserve two miles south of Pinedale on U.S. Highway 191. The preserve is named in honor of the longtime resident and former mayor of Pinedale.
Sublette County 4-H youth, including those who live on properties with restrictions that don't allow livestock, will be able to participate in livestock and agricultural education programs at the preserve, Schamber says. QEP's donation will also include the construction of a barn, fencing and other livestock facilities.
"Through creation of the Rose Skinner Preserve, we wish to recognize the tremendous contributions Rose has made to the town of Pinedale and to Sublette County during her many years of public service," says Charles Stanley, president and CEO of QEP Resources Inc.
"We are pleased Sublette County 4-H will be able to use this land to preserve and promote Pinedale's long and rich ranching heritage for future generations."
Schamber says educational opportunities at the new 4-H center will include range and forage studies, horticultural programs, and livestock management, grazing and health programs.
"We are excited to also offer use of the center to Pinedale FFA members and to maintain our collaborative working relationship between the two youth ag programs," she says. "Agricultural education could begin this winter and livestock projects next summer. "
The donated land is part of a parcel purchased a few years ago by QEP, according to a company statement. The company is constructing an office on a portion of the land adjacent to the 4-H agricultural center. The office will accommodate approximately 90 employees.
