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SF 52: Curt Gowdy State Park
2006 Budget Session
Sponsor: Joint Travel, Recreation, Wildlife and Cultural Resources Interim Committee
         SF 52 enlarged the Curt Gowdy State Park around Granite Reservoir in southeastern Wyoming from its present 2,002 acres to 3,415 acres. The addition included Crystal Reservoir and Upper North Crow Reservoir, which are currently owned by the Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities. Two scenic attractions, Hidden Falls and the canyon below Crystal Dam, will also be included in the expanded State Park.
         The Division of State Parks and Historic Sites will manage the property through a long-term agreement with the Cheyenne Board of Utilities, and the State Parks Division will use existing funds to cover management costs.
         While Granite and Crystal Reservoirs allow motorized boat traffic, North Crow Reservoir does not, and the prohibition of motorized boats on North Crow will remain in place under state management. The state will accomplish certain improvements at North Crow Reservoir, including restrooms, picnic shelters and a non-motorized boat ramp.
         Supporters noted that the area receives high visitation from local citizens from Cheyenne and Laramie during the summer months, and felt that management would be improved under the State Parks Division. They also believed that the park expansion would improve law enforcement efficiency, because Laramie County sheriff's deputies would no longer need to respond to violations at North Crow and Crystal Reservoirs.
         There was no opposition to SF 52, and both the Senate and the House passed the bill unanimously.