Images Sweetwater County, WY: 2011

2011 | imagessweetwatercounty.com ®

Sweetwater County, wyoming

ROAD TO SUCCESS Chamber helps tackle infrastructure projects

Yield of Dreams

FLAMING GORGE’S GORGEOUSNESS

Company supplies farms throughout the U.S.

What’s Online See the wild horses of Sweetwater County in action in a quick video.

sponsored by the Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce

Infinity Power & Controls LLC Infinity Power & Controls, LLC has been in business since 1999 serving the industrial, chemical, oil field, food service and automotive industries around the world.

Infinity continues to meet the needs of our customers with products and services in compliance with ANSI, NEMA, OSHA, IEEE, MSHA, UL and IEC standards. By offering products and services which conform to the above standards, Infinity is prepared to assist its clients with the application, selection and service of all major components, including PLC and DCS specifications,

programming and communications. Infinity is committed to helping its customers with their engineering and application needs. Infinity also offers product services and applications for all major component manufacturers of switchgear, transformers, electrical motors, AC and DC drives and Soft Starts. Infinity is proud to be a General Electric, Control Microsystems and Allen Bradley authorized OEM and distributor of Drives, PLCs and soft starts. Infinity Power & Controls is a UL 508 listed industrial control panel manufacturer.

IgKnightortm

InfiniFlaretm

Infinity has been working hand-in-hand with its customers to research and develop what has become the IgKnightorTM. The IgKnightorTM was developed to meet the industry’s needs for auto-ignition technology and temperature logging of BTEX, VOC, Line Heaters and Dehydrators. With increasingly strict DEQ requirements for flare monitoring systems in the ever-expanding natural gas field as well as a decrease in man hours, the IgKnightorTM was created. This system is paired with the InfiniFlameTM and InfiniFlareTM Burner Management Systems as a simple add-on.

The InfiniFlareTM is Infinity’s patented and DEQ Approved Flare Monitoring Control System.

The IgKnightorTM package will safeguard operators from potentially hazardous situations allowing them a simple press of a button to start the system. Using temperature monitoring, the addition of the InfiniFlameTM recognizes the pilot’s flame, turning off the IgKnightorTM to conserve energy. In the event the pilot goes out, the temperature monitoring system reinitializes the IgKnightorTM with its automatic relighting capability.

Infinity Power & Controls is your one-stop electrical and automation provider with over $500k in inventory and an experienced engineering, installation and manufacturing staff to meet your company’s control needs.

In 2007, Infinity designed and produced a VOC Flare Control System the InfiniFlareTM. This system enables the control and safeguard of vital production equipment.

InfiniFlareTM control proves the system is up and running 24/7 by logging information, storing and making that data retrievable for up to 125 days. This application has met stringent DEQ requirements. Environmental testing of our system has shown qualified results making the InfiniFlareTM a leader in volatile organic carbon emission reduction.

Also incorporated into the design is on-site emergency shut off and problem recognition, temperature logging of BTEX, Line Heaters and Dehydrators. Auto-ignition comes in the IgKnightorTM. Options include: automatic ignition, fuel availability and alarm telemetry.

The concept of this design as with most Infinity Power & Control products is adaptability and versatility for multiple applications.

Environmental

We Specialize in Idea Conception, System Engineering, M

Where Quality Automation Is Our Specialty!

In 2009 Infinity designed and produced a Line Heater Control System, the InfiniFlameTM. This system enables the control and safeguard of vital production equipment including: BETX, Line Heaters and Dehydrators. Also, incorporated onto the design is on-site emergency shut off and problem recognition. The InfiniFlameTM options include: automatic ignition with the IgKnightorTM and alarm telemetry.

As with most Infinity Power & Control products the concept of this design of the InfiniFlameTM and IgKnightorTM can be easily incorporated into your present control systems adding adaptability and versatility for multiple applications.

InfiniFlametm InfiniFlameTM is a patented and DEQ Approved Burner Monitoring and Control System.

It is designed to safeguard equipment from volatile high heat situations and the venting of volatile organic carbons into the atmosphere. Using patented technology, it reduces harmful emissions to meet demanding environmental regulations.

Our capabilities include but are not limited to: • A stand alone system with valve control, monitoring any burner unit, VOCs, BTEX, Dehydrators and Line Heaters • Built-in logging • Fail-safe shut downs for under and over temperature conditions, saving equipment and fuel gas while increasing efficiency.

• Optional Ignition System The InfiniFlameTM offers continuous monitoring of the pilot, with values logged every 15 minutes.

This information is stored in the memory of the controller.

The history of up to 12,000 logs can be accessed on a first-in first-out basis for up to 125 days.

Automatic re-light options are available.

ly Tested • DEQ Approved

anufacturing, Installation and Completion of Your Concept.

INTEGRITY, PRIDE and COMMITMENT

Your Imagination Is Your Only Control Limit!

Infinity prides themselves in using your company’s standards in the design and manufacturing of a solution for your company’s needs. Your imagination is your only control limit with Infinity Power & Controls!

A Solution Just for You! Infinity’s staff includes engineers familiar with applications in automation and control systems. Infinity specializes in designs that best meet the needs of their customer. No matter what our customer’s standards are, the staff has an engineer that fits the need.

1701 Decora Dr. • Rock Springs, WY 82901 • (307) 362-6661 • (307) 362-6663 Fax E-mail: bruce@infinitypwr.com • www.infinitypwr.com

Rock SpringsSweetwater County Airport Gateway to the World

(800) 221-1212 www.delta.com

Daily, non-stop flights: Denver, CO • Salt Lake City, UT Free parking Quick check-in Avis Rental Car (307) 362-5599

(800) 432-1359 www.frontierairlines.com

Great Lakes Airlines (800) 554-5111 www.greatlakesav.com

Enterprise Rental Car (307) 362-0416 Hertz Rental Car (307) 362-3262

Airport located east of Rock Springs off Interstate 80, Exit 111, Highway 370 (307) 352-6880 www.rockspringsairport.com

(800) 241-6522 www.united.com

2011 edition | volume 3 ÂŽ

Sweetwater County, Wyoming

co nte nt s F e atu r e s

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16 flaming gorge’s gorgeousness Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is the perfect getaway for vacationers.

20 go play!

Sweetwater County offers several parks and recreation facilities to keep residents active.

26 full of energy Power plants and coal mines provide power for millions of Western state residents.

28 yield of dreams Simplot Phosphates supplies farms throughout the country.

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®

Sweet water County, Wyoming Project Manager mitch Kline Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Jessica Walker Staff Writer Kevin Litwin Copy Editors Lisa Battles, Jill Wyatt Contributing writers Julianna Edmonds, Carson O’Shoney, Megan Pacella, Glennese Patterson Media Technology Director Christina Carden Senior Graphic Designers Laura Gallagher, Jessica Manner, Janine Maryland, Kris Sexton, Candice Sweet, Vikki Williams Media Technology Analysts Chandra Bradshaw, lance Conzett, Michele Niccore, Marcus Snyder Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier Web Content Managers John Hood, Kim Madlom Web Design Director Franco Scaramuzza Web Designer Leigh Guarin Web developer i Yamel Hall Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan I.T. Director Yancey Bond Regional Sales Manager Charles Sweeney Sales Support/Community, Business, Custom Rachael Goldsberry Senior Accountant Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator Diana Guzman Office Manager/Accounts Receivable Coordinator Shelly Miller Integrated Media Manager Clay Perry

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Sales Support Manager Cindy Hall color imaging technician Alison Hunter Chairman Greg Thurman President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales Todd Potter, Carla Thurman

d e pa r tm e nt s

Senior V.P./Operations Casey Hester Senior V.P./Client Development Jeff Heefner V.P./Content Development Teree Caruthers V.P./Custom Publishing Kim Newsom V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens V.P./Sales Charles Fitzgibbon, Herb Harper, Jarek Swekosky Controller Chris Dudley Content Director/Travel Publications Susan Chappell Content Director/Business Publications Bill McMeekin Marketing Creative Director Keith Harris Distribution Director Gary Smith Executive Secretary Kristy Duncan Human Resources Manager Peggy Blake Receptionist Linda Bishop

10 Almanac 14 Fun Things To Do 32 Biz Briefs 35 Chamber Report 37 Economic Profile 38 Photo Essay 44 Local Flavor 46 Arts & Culture 48 Sports & Recreation

Images Sweetwater County is published annually

by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses.

For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by e-mail at info@jnlcom.com.

For more information, contact: Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce 1897 Dewar Drive • Rock Springs, WY 82901 Phone: (307) 362-3771 • Fax: (307) 362-3838 www.rockspringswyoming.net Visit Images Sweetwater County online at imagessweetwatercounty.com ©Copyright 2010 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

Member

The Association of Magazine Media Member

Custom Content Council

50 Education 52 Health & Wellness 56 Image Gallery 61 Community Profile

on the cover Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area Photo by Antony Boshier

All or part of this magazine is printed on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

Please recycle this magazine

Member Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce

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What’s Online imagessweetwatercounty.com

Photos See more photos in our online photo gallery

2011 | IMAGESSwEETwATERCOUNTY.COM ®

SwEETwATER COUNTY, wYOMING

Get the inside scoop from our photographers’ blog ROAD TO SUCCESS Chamber helps tackle infrastructure projects

Facts & Stats Dig deeper with in-depth data on industries, schools and more

Yield of Dreams

FLAMING GORGE’S GORGEOUSNESS

Company supplies farms throughout the U.S.

What’s Online See the wild horses of Sweetwater County in action in a quick video.

SpONSORED bY ThE ROCk SpRINGS ChAMbER OF COMMERCE

Get a moving glimpse at favorite local places and attractions

Digital edition

Real estate

Easily share articles and photos on Facebook, Twitter or via e-mail

Video

Learn about the local housing market and get started finding your place

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Sweetwater County School District #2

Our public schools are the heart of our community, and we employ very talented and student-oriented teachers, administrators and staff.

They are all committed to making our entire District the best that it can be, and look forward to working with both the parents and students who enter our doors.

The District comprises an area of 5,250 square miles and is located in Green River, which has a population of approximately 14,000. The District offers a comprehensive educational program for grades Kindergarten through 12th and is both North Central Association and Wyoming State Board of Education accredited.

The District operates Green River High School (grades 9-12), Expedition Academy Alternative High School (grades 10-12), Lincoln Middle School (grades 7-8) and Monroe Intermediate School (grades 5-6). The District also maintains four elementary schools within the city limits (Harrison, Jackson, Truman and Washington), and three rural schools (Granger, McKinnon

MISSION Our mission is to be an exemplary, student-focused community committed to challenging students to reach their full potential.

and Thoman Ranch). The total enrollment as of the end of the 2009-2010 school year was 2,547.

The Curriculum Department is currently working on Curriculum Mapping for the entire District, which will provide effective learning for both the students and the staff. The District is continually working towards the best education possible for their students to give them the step up needed in this rapidly changing world.

Green River’s population is approximately 14,000. Trona mining, natural gas production and the railroad are still the major employers in the area. The area is constantly changing with the introduction of new businesses and the community works hard at maintaining its timeless and peaceful setting.

We invite you to browse our website at www.sw2.k12.wy.us to view the various events, programs and activities that the District has to offer students.

For more information and answers to questions, please call the District’s Central Office at (307) 872-5500.

VISION Our vision for Sweetwater County School District #2 students, parents, staff and community members is to collaborate and provide a premier educational experience that creates a foundation for personal success in the 21st Century.

®

Digital Edition Paradise Paradise FlaMing FlaMing goRge goRge national national RecReation RecReation aRea aRea is is the the PeRFect PeRFect getaway getaway FoR FoR vacationeRs vacationeRs

Story Story

By Megan

By Megan Pacella Pacella

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nclosed nclosed by bright by bright red canyon red canyon wallswalls and and situated situated amidst amidst the rolling the rolling hillshills of Ashley of Ashley National National Forest Forest lies Flaming lies Flaming Gorge Gorge LakeLake – one – one of the of best the best trouttrout fishing fishing destinations destinations in the in the country. country.

The The 91-mile 91-mile lakelake is theis gem the gem of the of Flaming the Flaming Gorge Gorge National National Recreation Recreation Area,Area, which which draws draws in vacationers in vacationers whowho taketake advantage advantage of the of lake’s the lake’s trophy-sized trophy-sized trouttrout and and ample ample space space for boating, for boating, jet skiing, jet skiing, house house boating boating and and otherother water water sports. sports.

For people For people whowho wantwant to gettooff getthe off grid the grid

Flaming Flaming gorge gorge national national Recreation Recreation areaarea photo by antony boshier photo by antony boshier

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swee st wwat e e te wat r c o e r un ct oyu n t y

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HAVE A BLOG OR WEBSITE? Embed the digital magazine in your site to add compelling, local information.

DO MORE THAN JUST READ ABOUT IT Experience the community through video and find links to other sites for additional information.

imagessweetwatercounty.com

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Welcome to Sweetwater County An introduction to the area’s people, places and events

Imagine That A culture of sculpture and art exists at West of Center Studio and Local Color Gallery Gifts & Art, both in Rock Springs. West of Center celebrates the American West heritage with sculpture, paintings and décor items from 35 area artists and artisans. Local Color Gallery is located in the historic Slovenski Dom and is the largest artist-owned gallery in Wyoming. It features pottery, paintings, jewelry, antler art and photography.

Market Strategy It’s not open long, but it’s a success when it is. Rock Springs Farmers Market annually arrives in Sweetwater County on ten consecutive Thursdays each July through September. The sales take place in Depot Park from 4-7 p.m., with items available such as homemade crafts, fresh breads, fruits and vegetables, farm fresh eggs, meat and poultry.

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Almanac

Spin Cycle No Better Way to Fly Rock Springs-Sweetwater County Airport, just seven miles east of Rock Springs, offers an easy way to travel to and from the area. Great Lakes Airlines, SkyWest Airlines and United Airlines offer commercial flights in and out of the airport, and daily direct flights to Salt Lake City and Denver. Franklin Aviation provides aircraft rental, charter flight service and flight instruction.

Wyoming is rugged country, and there’s no better way to see it than from the seat of a bike. Within a short drive of Rock Springs lie hundreds of miles of trails and a variety of terrain that can accommodate cyclists of all abilities. Popular biking spots include the 20-mile Cherokee Trail/ Currant Creek Ranch Loop, Pilot Butte, Boar’s Tusk and White Mountain.

There is also a new Green River Bike Park that opened in 2010.

Fast Facts n Robert LeRoy Parker, a.k.a. Butch Cassidy, got his nickname while working at a butcher shop in Rock Springs. n Incorporated cities and towns in Sweetwater County are Bairoil, Granger, Green River, Rock Springs, Superior and Wamsutter. n Sweetwater County has more miles of still-visible pioneer historic trails than any other area in the United States.

Quite an Event Wyoming is a land of big spaces – and a big events center.

The Sweetwater Events Complex is located just five miles from downtown Rock Springs, and is an easy drive from Interstate 80.

The complex is equipped with a 20,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall, a 42,000-square-foot agricultural complex and parking for 700-plus vehicles. Events at the complex include horse shows, moto-cross, BMX racing and stock car racing. Wyoming’s Big Show is also staged at the complex in late July and early August each year.

n Fish weighing more than 50 pounds have been hauled out of Flaming Gorge Reservoir. n The county is home to two excellent public school districts – Sweetwater County School District #1 and Sweetwater County School District #2.

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Sweetwater ★ Professional

COUNTY ★ Dedicated ★ Innovative ★ Efficient

★ Resourceful

Our Vision Our community participating in accountable and transparent government

Our Mission To deliver accountable, professional and stable services to our community

Our Strategic Goals • • • •

Efficiently manage taxpayers’ money Effectively manage country resources Make our government transparent and accountable Continually improve our government processes, systems and policies • Support the continuous professional development of county employees

80 W. Flaming Gorge Way • Green River, WY 82935 (307) 872-3898 • (307) 872-3992 Fax • www.sweet.wy.us

Ideal for Kitty Litter The Green River basin in Sweetwater has the largest deposit of trona in the world. In fact, there is so much trona that the deposit won’t run out for the next 2,000 years.

Trona is used as a source of soda ash or sodium carbonate, and is an element in cleaning products such as baking soda, laundry detergent and kitty litter. Thanks to the mineral, more than 2,400 people are employed at five trona mines throughout the region.

Yes, ‘Til You Drop White Mountain Mall in Rock Springs is one of only three enclosed malls in all of Wyoming. It opened in 1978 and is conveniently located near Interstate 80, and features more than 30 stores. The mall opens every day at 10 a.m., except for noon on Sunday.

Anchor stores include Herberger’s, JCPenney and Flaming Gorge HarleyDavidson – the only mall-based motorcycle retailer in the entire United States. White Mountain Mall also has a 10-screen theater with stadium seating throughout.

Sweetwater County At A Glance Gr ee

nR

.

POPULATION (2007 ESTIMATE) Sweetwater County: 48,000 Rock Springs: 27,000, Green River: 14,500

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Fontenelle

LOCATION Sweetwater County is in southwest Wyoming, just north of the Wyoming, Utah and Colorado state lines.

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SW E E T WAT E R

North Rock Springs

Granger Little America

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Eden

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BEGINNINGS Sweetwater County was organized in 1867. Its county seat is Green River.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce 1897 Dewar Drive P.O. Box 398 Rock Springs, WY 82902-0398 Phone: (307) 362-3771 Fax: (307) 362-3838 www.rockspringschamber.com

Bairoil

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Creston Superior Point of Rocks Wamsutter 80

Rock Springs Green River

Table Rock Bitter Creek

789

430 530 414

Flaming Gorge Res.

McKinnon

What’s Online Take a virtual tour of Sweetwater County, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imagessweetwatercounty.com.

Sweetwater County

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Fun Things To Do in Sweetwater County Discover all that Sweetwater County has to offer, from scenic natural getaways to one-of-a-kind entertainment. Have your own memorable experience with these exciting attractions.

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Get a breath of fresh air along one of Sweetwater County’s historic trails.

Throw on your cowboy boots and head to the Red Desert Roundup Rodeo, held every July.

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Take an art class sponsored by the Community Fine Arts Center.

Explore the impressive exhibits of the WWCC Natural History Museum.

Dig for fossils at Lake Gosiute.

Relax while you tube down the Green River.

Go on an off-road adventure on Killpecker Sand Dunes.

Catch a glimpse of wild horses and other wildlife

on the Pilot Butte Wild Horse Loop Scenic Tour.

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Fish along the banks of the Flaming Gorge Recreation Area.

See what’s racing at the Sweetwater Events Complex.

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s R oom re n c e p e f n o C ng u S e r v i e o pl e P 0 8 1 to

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we love having you here.®

Green River Complimentary, Full Hot Breakfast Complimentary Evening Dinner Reception Mon.-Thur. 5-7 p.m.

Pool & Hot Tub • Fitness Center Complimentary High-Speed Internet Access Business Center • Meeting Rooms The Bar at Wild Horse Canyon on Premises

(307) 875-5300 1055 Wild Horse Canyon Rd. • Green River www.hamptoninn.com

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Join us … The Bar at

Monday-Friday 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

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Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area photo by Antony Boshier

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Paradise Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is the perfect getaway for vacationers

Story By Megan Pacella

E

nclosed by bright red canyon walls and situated amidst the rolling hills of Ashley National Forest lies Flaming Gorge Lake – one of the best trout fishing destinations in the country. The 91-mile lake is the gem of the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, which draws in vacationers who take advantage of the lake’s trophy-sized trout and ample space for boating, jet skiing, house boating and other water sports. For people who want to get off the grid

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for a few days, Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is the perfect retreat.

“The area is great for recreation – it has fishing, water sports, horseback riding and all sorts of activities to keep visitors engaged,” says Dave Hanks, director of the Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce.

Wildlife Viewing at Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is also perfect for visitors who just want to sit and take in a gorgeous view. With 357 miles of shoreline, the Flaming Gorge Lake stretches from the high desert to the alpine forest, offering breathtaking waterfront views, as well as a large variety of wildlife.

“The lower part of the gorge is a 1,500-foot canyon with sheer cliff walls, which are great for wildlife viewing,” Hanks says. “You can spot bighorn sheep and birds of prey on the rocks, and then in the forest you’ll see elk, wild horses, deer and all sorts of large and small animals.”

Unlike other recreation areas, the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is void of commercial development, giving the scenery an ageless feel that defies typical scenery in modern-day America. The area boasts three lodges that offer cabin rentals and hotel facilities, but most visitors prefer to pitch a tent or park a motor home in one of the many available campgrounds.

“This is a tremendous recreation resource, and there are spectacular scenic drives,” Hanks adds. “But the thing is, it’s a very under-utilized resource. Most of the time, you will see

photos by Antony Boshier

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very few people in the area. There are no huge population centers around here. If you really want to get away and see pristine wildlife, and just relax in gorgeous surroundings for a few days, this is the place.”

Clockwise from top left: A chipmunk at the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area; A hiker jumping rock formations; Fishing the Green River on the Utah/Wyoming border; View of the Green River in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area.

Staff Photo

Go Fishing at Flaming Gorge Reservoir While some visitors might be satisfied sitting back and taking in the views, Flaming Gorge also attracts fishermen from all over the country. Famous for its lake trout, the Flaming Gorge Reservoir is home to a number of trout that weigh in at more than 30 pounds. The Flaming Gorge Reservoir offers three full-service marinas to keep fishermen occupied, and thanks to its untouched landscape, most of the shoreline remains unspoiled.

“The fishing here is absolutely phenomenal,” Hanks says.

“We’ve got lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, all sorts of fish. The part of the reservoir where the Green River flows out is one of the top three trout streams in the country. It has between 7,000 and 10,000 fish per mile in the river there.

It is absolutely a fisherman’s paradise.”

For more information about the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, visit www.tourwyoming.com.

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Go

Play!

Sweetwater County offers several parks and recreation facilities to keep residents active

Story By Megan Pacella

White Mountain Golf Course If you’re looking to spend a nice morning on the green, White Mountain Golf Course has 27 holes, a full length driving area, chipping greens and putting greens to keep you and your family occupied. Recently, White Mountain executed a major expansion project, adding nine holes to the original 18, including five holes on the water.

“Our course is in great shape,” says Chris Harwood, golf pro at White Mountain Golf Course. “We get tons of customers here because our course is in great shape and we don’t charge an arm and a leg for people to use it.”

A family at a kids’ soccer match. Far right: Mom teaches her son to hit a ball at White Mountain Golf Course.

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Since the day the course opened 32 years ago, Harwood has served as its golf pro. He says even with the economic downturn hitting consumers’ pocketbooks, the course still sees heavy traffic.

“We actually added the nine holes to take the overflow from our original 18 holes,” he says. “That’s how busy we are. And now that we have nine

new holes, we’re never closed.”

For more information on White Mountain Golf Course, visit www.rswy.net.

Pioneer Trails Picnic Grounds If you like to be outdoors, but golfing isn’t your thing, pay a visit to Pioneer Trails, a 52-acre park situated just north

Staff Photos

L

ooking for a fun weekend activity? There is no shortage of great parks and recreation facilities in Sweetwater County. And the best part is, whether you want to hit the putting greens, take your dog for a stroll or set up a fun family picnic, anything you want is within a short drive of your own home.

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Jeff Adkins

What’s Online Find out more about recreation opportunities in Sweetwater County at imagessweetwater county.com.

of Green River, Wyoming. The park boasts three group picnic shelters, 20 picnic tables, nature trails, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and more. In other words, this park has more than enough to give your family a fun-filled day outside – including horseback riding trails.

Just east of Rock Springs, the Aero-modelers Park also offers picnic facilities, but the main attraction is a model airplane runway.

Sweetwater County Shooting Sports Complex For residents and visitors who love to keep their shooting skills sharp, the shooting range offers the perfect amenities. At the Sweetwater

County Shooting Sports Complex, visitors can test their aim by using the 500- and 700-yard shooting lanes. The complex offers seven benches and target stands, but visitors are required to bring ear and eye protection, as well as their own paper targets to shoot.

For more information about recreation opportunities in Sweetwater County, visit the Sweetwater County Recreation Board website at www.countyparks.net. The Recreation Board manages 12 parks located throughout Sweetwater County. All parks are open yearround, from daylight to dusk, and can also be reserved for special events; however, overnight camping is not permitted.

Above (clockwise from top left): 8-year-old Brianna Mahoney celebrates a score while playing disc golf at Arthur Park; A small dog enjoys the dog park in Rock Springs; Officers train at the Sweetwater County Shooting Complex. Right: Green River

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photos by Antony Boshier

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Dive Right In! New aquatic center draws thousands of visitors In August, the aquatic addition to the Rock Springs Family Recreation Center opened, drawing in so many visitors that Parks and Rec employees had to turn people away.

“For the first two weeks the center was open, it was absolutely crazy,” says Mike Evans, Recreation Center superintendent. “We can only fit 150 people in the facility, and a lot more than that were showing up!”

The $8.3 million facility boasts plenty of amenities to attract record numbers of visitors to the Rock Springs area. In addition to two water slides and a splash pad area, the aquatic center also offers a lazy river, a climbing wall and spray areas in which smaller children can play. Along with that, two party rooms are available for rent, and family changing locker rooms make family outings easier.

“In the first two weeks we were open, the aquatic center generated roughly $13,000,” Evans says.

“It also added about 2,000 to 2,500 people to the Recreation Center’s typical numbers.”

Evans adds that the aquatic addition was originally the first part of a larger project, but economic issues might put a halt to expansion plans. Depending on economic conditions, an outdoor swimming pool might be on the way.

For more information about the aquatic addition, visit www.rswy.net.

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Staff Photo Antony Boshier

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Full of

Energy Power plants and coal mines provide power for millions of Western state residents

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Story By Megan Pacella | Photography By Antony Boshier

hen it’s running at full capacity with other electricity-generating resources, the Jim Bridger Power Plant and Coal Mine can provide power to more than 1 million customers – but that’s not enough. With expansion plans under way, Bridger plans to expand into nearby coal fields for surface mine development. The power plant and mine are both jointly owned by PacifiCorp (which serves Wyoming customers as Rocky Mountain Power) and Idaho Power Corp.

Open since the 1970s, the Jim Bridger Power Plant employs about 390 people, while the Coal Mine employs more than 440. The Bridger Coal Company has adopted new underground operations and a surface mine to better serve residents in the Rock Springs area.

Bridger Coal Company began full-scale underground mining operations at the Jim Bridger Mine in March 2007, using state-of-the-art longwall mining technology that will help extend the life of the mine by approximately 20 years.

Longwall mining uses self-advancing hydraulic roof supports, an automated coal shearing machine and an armored conveyor system. The shearing machine works under the movable roof supports, cutting the coal, which then drops onto the conveyor, which transports it from the mine.

“The transition to a multifaceted operation – including underground, surface and highwall mining techniques – will ensure a stable, economic fuel source for the adjacent Jim Bridger Power Plant for many years to come,” said Pat Akers, Bridger Coal Company’s general manager.

Jim Bridger Power Plant and Coal Mine Gets Greener Both the mine and the power plant are facilities owned by Rocky Mountain Power, a division of PacifiCorp. And while many companies catch flack for their large carbon footprint, PacifiCorp is at the midpoint in its 10-year comprehensive air

initiative to reduce emissions at coal-fueled power plants.

By the end of 2014, the company anticipates that it will have retrofitted 16 units with emission controls that include new low-nitrogen oxide burners, new or retrofitted sulfur dioxide scrubbers and/or replacement of electrostatic precipitators with fabric filter bag houses to capture particulate matter.

What exactly does that mean? Basically, when completed, the emission reduction plan is expected to reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by approximately 60 percent and nitrogen oxides by approximately 40 percent from pre-2005 levels.

The projects will ensure compliance with the first phase of the 1999 Clean Air Act regional haze rules, which were developed to achieve “natural visibility” in national parks and wilderness areas by 2064. The retrofits also support Rocky Mountain Power and PacifiCorp’s own environmental commitment to develop sustainable operations and implement environmental projects designed to leave a clean, healthy environment for future generations.

According to Bob Arambel, PacifiCorp’s managing director at the Jim Bridger power plant, new low-NOX burners have been installed on all four units, and scrubber upgrades have been completed on three of the units. The final scrubber upgrade is scheduled for 2011.

Black Butte Coal Company Located nearby, the Black Butte Coal Company operates one of the largest surface mines in the nation, covering 70 square miles and producing more than three million tons of coal each year in Point of Rocks. The mine has sold more than 110 million tons of coal to the north central Rocky Mountain market. Facilities consist of a coal plant, laboratory, water treatment plant, warehouse, shop, changehouse and office. The company has a reclamation effort, which strives to preserve and protect the natural ecological balance of the environment.

Two workers inspect conveyor belts feeding the furnaces at the Jim Bridger Power Plant.

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Keeping

America Fed

Simplot Phosphates provides liquid and dry fertilizers to farms all over the country

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Story By Megan Pacella

R

ock Springs isn’t a booming metropolis centered around international business, but the benefits of the area’s natural resources are felt as far away as the Mississippi River. Thanks to companies like Simplot Phosphates, which operates a slurry pipeline and a fertilizer manufacturing plant, farmers across the Midwest have the supplies they need to keep America’s crops healthy.

But producing the fertilizer from raw material to final product is a lot more complicated than it sounds.

“Simplot Phosphates is essentially two operations,” explains Plant Manager Eric Schillie. “We mine phosphate ore in Vernal, Utah. We run that slurry to our Rock Springs fertilizer plant by using a 96-mile pipeline that connects the two facilities. That’s where our final product is formed and shipped all over the country.”

Once the ore slurry reaches the Rock Springs plant, things take a turn for the complicated. At the manufacturing plant, the ore slurry is mixed with sulfuric acid, causing a reaction that releases a weak phosphoric acid. To strengthen their product, Simplot Phosphates uses four evaporators to boil the phosphoric acid, which strengthens it considerably.

“Once this process is finished, the phosphoric acid is what we call ‘super phosphoric acid,’” explains Schillie.

“It’s shipped by rail cars all over the Midwest, where it’s made into a liquid application fertilizer.”

Utilizing Sweetwater County’s Natural Resources Founded in 1986, the company employs more than 200 people in the Rock Springs area, and its products are shipped to almost every state west of the Mississippi. Schillie believes that a large part of the company’s success can be contributed to the culture and natural resources of the Rock Springs area.

“We have access to the Wyoming gas fields, which

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Mike McGovern Mountain West Storage (307) 382-STOR (7867) 87 Gookin-White Mountain Rd. Rock Springs, WY 82901 www.mountainweststorage.com

• New State-of-the-Art Buildings • Conveniently Located Near I-80 and Foothill Blvd. behind Home Depot • Electronically Controlled 24-Hour Access Gate • Complete Fenced and Paved Facility • Online Billing and Payment Options • 186 Indoor Units, 5’x10’ to 12’x30’ • 46 Outdoor R.V. Storage Spaces • Locally Owned and Operated

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Photos Courtesy of Greg Sims

produces the molten sulfur we need and produces all of our sulfuric acid on site,” he says. “That’s huge in this business.

Plus, we’re right beside the railroad line and Interstate 80, which makes our shipping easier.”

Schillie adds that the mentality of Rock Springs residents has also contributed to Simplot Phosphate’s success.

“Rock Springs is an old mining town, and there is still a lot of mining here. As a result, the people here were brought up to be hard workers. The businesses around here are tough: People work in the oil and gas fields, or in the trona and coal

mines. It’s a rough lifestyle, but our people are industrial, strong workers.”

For nearly 25 years, Simplot Phosphates has been running a successful operation, and Schillie doesn’t expect business to slow down any time soon.

“We’re going to be here for a long time,” he says. “The world population is growing, and people want to eat. Farmers need to maximize their crop output to feed the world, and they need our products to do that. As long as people need to eat, we’ll be right here in Wyoming making sure they’re fed.”

Above: Simplot Phosphates uses phosphate ore, sulfuric acid and ammonia to produce high-quality phosphate fertilizer. Below (left): Dave Martin, operator Below (right): Terry Andrews, operator (foreground); Troy Shuttlesworth, operator (background, seated); Brian Browen, supervisor (background, standing)

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Biz Briefs Businesses – both large and small – that help define sweetwater county’s economic climate

Scorecard Business At A Glance

$5,783,756 Retail sales ($1,000)

$11,586 Retail sales per capita

$984,684 Accommodation and food services sales ($1,000)

53,103 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

WYOMING LAND TITLE CO. Biz: Real estate records Buzz: The company is the state of Wyoming’s division of First American Title Insurance Company, which over the years has combined nearly 20 real estate firms whose roots go back to statehood. The company’s main purpose is to provide complete title and closing services for landowners, and also handles escrow accounts.

Branches are in 19 of Wyoming’s 23 counties. local.firstam.com/title-wy/sweetwater 32

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MESSCO Biz: Equipment manufacturer Buzz: Messco fabricates and manufactures equipment for the oil and gas industries. Founded more than 10 years ago, the company is known for its expertise in designing and making equipment for the dehydration of natural gas. One of their recent advancements is patenting an emissions control device that exceeds regulatory air quality standards. www.messco.com JFC ENGINEERS/ SURVEYORS Biz: Engineering and surveying Buzz: JFC has a wide variety of clients who utilize the engineering company for all aspects of project development and construction. The company is involved in projects such as civil and structural design, construction of public recreation facilities, road design and subdivision construction. www.jfc-wyo.com FMC TECHNOLOGIES Biz: Oil and gas services Buzz: FMC Technologies has been in Rock Springs for more than 20 years and is involved with wholesale chemicals/products, oil/gas field services, oil and gas extraction, and other oilfield pumping services.

The company utilizes much heavy machinery that is affiliated with the energy industry. FMC has a Rock Springs workforce of 40 employees and annual revenues exceeding $5 million. www.fmctechnologies.com SWEETWATER TELEVISION CORP. Biz: Cable company, provider Buzz: This Rock Springs private company is located on Broadway Street and is in the business of providing basic cable and other pay-television services.

Its customer base stretches throughout Sweetwater County as well as a few surrounding extended communities.

The company’s services include 24-hour cable support for both commercial and residential clients. www2.sweetwaterhsa.com

Indoor RV Units w/14’ Doors Climate-Controlled Units Standard Storage Units

1701 Swanson Dr. Rock Springs, WY 82902 (307) 382-2161

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Making Your Dream A Home

We are Wyoming’s oldest manufactured home dealer, having serviced the state for more than 35 years.

Our business is family owned and operated. We carry manufactured and modular homes as well as recreational vehicles. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will help you through every step of the home purchasing process from home design to lot preparation to bank loans.

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Come check out our RV products too!

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The Road to Success Chamber helps the city of rock springs make infrastructure projects happen

D

ave Hanks is confident that Rock Springs and Sweetwater County are in good position for growth over the next 10-15 years.

The CEO of Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce says several groups – including the chamber – have worked hard over the past couple of years to address infrastructure issues within the city.

“We’ve been installing water lines, sewers and streets in a lot of areas that have needed them, so now they’re ready for future development projects,” Hanks says. “This community is in excellent position for future growth.”

center nowadays, welcoming 30,000 people into its building each year. Their office is at the busy crossroads of Dewar Drive and Gateway Boulevard at exit 102.

Public Land for Business Hanks wants to mention one more current aspect about the Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce.

“About 75 percent of the public land in Sweetwater County is controlled by the federal government, so we’ve formed a committee that deals specifically with public land issues,” he says. “We are advocates for how that available land will eventually help industry and the business environment in our community.”

– Kevin Litwin

Quality of Life Hanks adds that the chamber has also been involved lately with several quality-of-life issues.

“Projects we’ve helped promote include an expansion of the pool facility at Rock Springs Family Recreation Center, upgrades to the city’s indoor Olympic-sized Ice Arena, plus upgrades to the 27-hole White Mountain Golf Course and Rock Springs Dog Park,” he says. “In addition, there has been a recent $53 million expansion to Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County. A good quality of life attracts businesses, and we saw more than 60 new members join the chamber in 2010.”

Increasing Tourism The chamber is also working on growing its tourism sector by striving to get Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area designated as a National Scenic Byway.

“We are heading that project, with both Wyoming and Utah involved in the designation effort,” Hanks says.

“Meanwhile, the chamber and city of Rock Springs are busy with a $200,000 project to install a Wayfinding Signage System throughout Rock Springs. If you’re not familiar with the city, then it’s very hard to find your way around.

The signage system would direct visitors to attractions within Rock Springs.”

The chamber is also acting as a visitors

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North Side Branch 601 N. Front St. Rock Springs, WY (307) 362-5601 (800) 632-5601 www.1stbank-online.com

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economic profile Business climate Mining, particularly of trona, is the major industry in Sweetwater County, and the railroad is still a major presence in the area. With the interstate, railroad, fiber optics and other important infrastructures, Rock Springs and Green River make ideal business locations.

Economic Resources Green River Chamber of Commerce 1155 W. Flaming Gorge Way Green River, WY 82935 (307) 875-5711 www.grchamber.com

taxes

1% County Sales Tax

4% State Sales Tax

5% Total Sales Tax

Transportation

Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce 1897 Dewar Drive, P.O. Box 398 Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 362-3771 www.rockspringschamber.com Sweetwater County Travel & Tourism 404 N St., Suite 304 Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 382-2538 www.tourwyoming.com

Sweetwater Economic Development Association 1575 Dewar Dr., Suite 220 Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 352-6874 www.sweda.net Wyoming Business Council 1400 Dewar Dr., Suite 208A Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 389-0867 pat.robbins@wybusiness.org

Government Offices City of Rock Springs 212 D St. Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 352-1500 www.rswy.net

Rock Springs-Sweetwater County Airport P.O. Box 1987 Rock Springs, WY 82902 (307) 352-6880 www.rockspringsairport.com STAR Transit 1471 Dewar Drive Suite 123 Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 382-7827 www.ridestartransit.com

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We apply innovation and technology to help farmers around the world provide more while conserving more. www.monsanto.com

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Wide

Open

Spaces

wild horses roam parts of rock springs and green river to the top of white mountain

T

he self-guided Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop Tour consists of gravel roads for approximately 24 scenic miles and begins in either Green River or Rock Springs. There are around 800-1,000 wild horses that populate the area and are typically best to spot in the early morning and late afternoon hours. Other wildlife among the Wyoming, Wind River and Uinta mountain ranges are antelope, desert elk, deer, rabbits, coyotes, hawks, eagles and sage grouse. The loop offers several scenic overlooks of the area’s well-known features, such as Pilot Butte, Boar’s Tusk, Killpecker Sand Dunes, Steamboat Mountain, North and South Table mountains, Leucite Hills and much more.

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Photo Essay

What’s Online  Visit imagessweetwatercounty.com to see more award-winning photography highlighting the places and people in Sweetwater County.

Staff Photo

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Jeff Adkins

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Staff Photos

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photo by Jeff Adkins

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Local Flavor

From Downhome to Upscale Sweetwater County Offers a Diverse Sampling of Restaurants Sweetwater County locals are sure to find something pleasing to their palates among the area’s diverse sampling of restaurants, whether they are craving a taste of Americana or foreign flavors.

International Fare International restaurants are abundant in Sweetwater County.

The 9 Iron Grill, a former steakhouse-turned-Italian grill, is a local favorite for its mastery of authentic Italian food. Diners can continue to traverse the continents with cuisine from Chopstix, a top spot for sushi. Don Pedro Mexican Family Restaurant, Los Cabos Mexican Grill and Cantina, and Super Tortas Mina Taqueria combine traditional Mexican flavors with a family environment to provide the optimal dining experience. And Wonderful House offers Chinese cuisine with friendly service at affordable prices.

Steakhouses Hungry carnivores can traipse over to Coyote Creek Steakhouse and Saloon to sink their teeth into a variety of delicious steaks.

Bitter Creek Brewing Company treats customers’ taste buds with its diverse offerings of locally crafted beer and food.

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Burgers, Tradition and More Longtime establishments such as Grub’s Drive In and Remedies Grill and Fountain continue to satisfy customers by serving up platters of tradition. Grub’s has been in business since 1946 and is best known for its Shamrock burger. Made with two homemade patties topped with Velveeta cheese, it is cooked to order on a flattop grill and served up with mustard, pickle and onions.

Most regulars order it with a side of fries smothered in gravy.

Remedies has been in the back of Bi-Rite Drug since the mid-1950s, and is in its second generation of family ownership. Brothers John and Mark Piaia say they have their own special burger offering, which diners usually order with their beer-battered fries and homemade fry sauce. Other local favorites for a burger and fries include Penny’s Diner, Arctic Circle and Broadway Burger Station.

Farmers Markets Locals looking to stock their refrigerators with the freshest produce know to go to the Rock Springs Farmer’s Market and the Green River Farmer’s Market. Both feature a variety of vendors who help bring the taste of the garden to the table with an assortment of homegrown goods for purchase.

– Julianna Edmonds

Want More Places To Eat? 9 Iron Grill, 9irongrill.com Coyote Creek Steakhouse and Saloon www.coyotecreekrs.com Bitter Creek Brewing Company www.bittercreekbrewing.com Rock Springs & Green River Farmers Markets www.wyomingfarmersmarkets.org

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Arts & Culture

Fine Arts, Festivals and Fun County’s Culture Scene Includes Museums and Celebrations Sweetwater County is a hub of cultural activity, proudly home to museums, an arts center and an impressive library system, while hosting a number of festivals.

Museums Sweetwater County Historical Museum preserves the history of Sweetwater County as an educational center for children and adults, and includes permanent and temporary exhibits as well as a historical photography collection and research materials. The Rock Springs Historical Museum houses exhibits about the history of Rock Springs with an emphasis on coal mining and multinational heritage.

And the Rock Springs Community Fine Arts Center houses permanent and changing displays of art while also hosting a number of performance arts programs year- round.

Libraries Sweetwater County libraries are a learner’s paradise. The library system offers nine branches all over the county. The system is a supporter of the Fine Arts Center and provides resources for anyone interested in Wyoming culture; there’s even a Spanish collection at the White Mountain branch. Many libraries also serve as venues for concerts and poetry slams.

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Festivals Wyoming’s Big Show, the Sweetwater County Fair, offers a carnival, contests, concerts, shows and plenty of kids’ activities. The River Festival in Green River has everything from a Cajun shrimp boil and live music to horse runs, photography contests and free games for kids.

To kick back and relax, there’s the Blues n’ Brews Festival in downtown Rock Springs. Live bands and brewers provide entertainment for attendees while all profits and donations go to the Urban Renewal Agency’s Main Street Program. If it’s rodeo action you want, the Red Desert Roundup Rodeo includes a 5K run, parade, golf tournament and, of course, rodeo events. And Flaming Gorge Days is known as “Southwest Wyoming’s Weekend of Fun,” and is held every summer in June, while attracting visitors with its golf tournament, concerts, recreation activities and more.

– Raven Petty

Join In the Fun wyoming’s big show – sweetwater county fair July 28-August 7, 2011 www.sweetwaterevents.com

FMC values the safety and health of its employees.

Safety is everyone’s responsibility. At FMC, no job we do is worth risking the safety of one of our employees.

Safety is a shared responsibility at FMC.

Safety

Customer Service

River Festival www.grchamber.org

Productivity

Environmental Awareness

Blues n’ Brews Festival August 13, 2011 www.sweetwaterbluesnbrews.com

Personal Development

Red Desert Roundup Rodeo www.rdrrodeo.com

Our mining and processing facilities are prime examples of our use of innovative technologies to maintain quality and efficiency.

Flaming Gorge Days www.flaminggorgedays.com Check out a full listing of events at www.tourwyoming.com

Our Green River, Wyoming plant is the world’s largest trona mine and producer of natural soda ash.

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P.O. Box 872 Green River, WY 82935 307.875.2580 www.fmc.jobs

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Sports & Recreation

Sweetwater County: Fun for Outdoorsmen of All Kinds Wyoming is known throughout the country as a great place for many different outdoor recreational activities. Sweetwater County, located in the southwestern section of the state, is a prime example of the variety of things to do in Wyoming, and is a tourist destination for adventurers looking for anything from jet skiing to archery.

Ashley National Forest and Flaming Gorge

1.3 million acres comprise the Ashley National Forest

Sweetwater County’s main attraction is the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area.

The Flaming Gorge welcomes 2.5 million visitors per year, and boasts a variety of water based activities. The rest of the National Recreation and Forest Areas are a popular destination as well, with more than 1,000 miles of hiking and biking trails, covering areas of heavy forestation, high desert and rugged mountains.

375 miles of shoreline at the Flaming Gorge Reservoir

2 golf courses: White Mountain & Rolling Green Country Club

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Local Parks The parks department in Sweetwater County oversees 12 county parks, with each having their own unique features.

Sweetwater Aero-Modelers Park is home to a model airplane runway.

Arrowhead Springs Park has a youth fishing pond. Other fun parks in the area are Bicentennial Park, Big Sandy Park, Crossroads Park, Mesa Park, Sweetwater County Archery Range, the Trap Club featuring trap shooting and the Splash Park, which is a free, public family water park located adjacent to the National Historic Site, Expedition Island.

Sports and Recreation Centers The Rock Springs Civic Center provides a 56-foot-long climbing wall with routes that change daily.

The Green River Recreation Center features an Olympic-sized, L-shaped swimming pool while the Rock Springs Family Recreation Center has everything from racquetball courts to an ice arena, along with a running track and weight rooms with exercise equipment. The Sweetwater Events Complex & Speedway features competition for motocross, stock cars and more throughout the year.

Other Natural Recreation Sites Most of Sweetwater County is public land with unlimited access.

Tours of the open areas across White Mountain are available to the public, highlighting the natural beauty of the area and the various forms of wildlife that roam free.

Visitors looking for more of a hands-on adventure can visit the Killpecker Sand Dunes, the second largest active sand dune field in the world.

– Carson O’Shoney

ComTech

Communication Technologies • Authorized Two-Way Radio Dealer • Sales, Service and Design of Two-Way Radio Systems • 24-Hour Service Response for or with Maintenance Contracts • Service Agreements • Four Locations: Rock Springs – (307) 382-5663 Mills – (307) 232-8870 Lander – (307) 332-6425 Jackson – (307) 733-3269

Authorized Two-Way Radio Dealer

1900 Elk Street Rock Springs, WY (307) 382-5663

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Education

Standing the Test sweetwater County Offers Strong Education Options

Staff Photo

Western Wyoming Community College

The educational system in Sweetwater County deserves a gold star, with several top school options to choose from. Here are some of them:

Western Wyoming Community College

University of Wyoming-Laramie

Sweetwater County School District No. 1

WWCC was established in 1959, with 40 students then compared to 5,000 today, including 1,000 full-timers.

The campus is in Rock Springs, with an extended campus center located in Green River. WWCC offers certificates and two-year degrees in several programs that prepare students for business and industry.

The state university in Laramie is a three-hour drive from Rock Springs. However, UW also offers some four-year degree programs that students can take at Western Wyoming Community College, thereby giving Sweetwater County residents access to the university’s 89 bachelor’s, 77 master’s and 29 doctoral degrees.

UW consists of seven colleges.

District No. 1 is headquartered in Rock Springs and oversees all public schools within the City of Rock Springs, Farson/Eden Valley, and Wamsutter. Enrollment is 4,700 students and there are seven elementary, four middle schools and three high schools.

Parents are welcome to sign up for their children’s daily or weekly progress reports.

For More Information

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Western wyoming cc www.wwcc.wy.edu

school district no. 1 www.sweetwater1.org

holy spirit catholic school www.rshscs.com

University of Wyoming-Laramie www.uwyo.edu

school district no. 2 www.sw2.k12.wy.us

green river bible baptist (307) 875-4405

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Sweetwater County School District No. 2 Sweetwater County School District No. 2 is in the City of Green River, and includes all public schools in the outlying communities of Granger and McKinnon. The district has 2,700 students and 11 schools, with eight of the schools situated within the Green River city limits.

Private Schools The two private schools in Sweetwater County are Holy Spirit Catholic and Green River Bible Baptist. Holy Spirit Catholic School in Rock Springs offers a pre-K through grade 6 curriculum, while Green River Bible Baptist School is a K-12 school that has only 25 students and six teachers. – Kevin Litwin

visit our

advertisers 1st Bank Northside Branch www.1stbank-online.com Anytime Fitness www.club.anytimefitness.com/clubs/rockspringswy/ BP America www.bp.com Communication Technologies Inc. www.comtechradio.com FMC www.fmc.com FMC Technologies www.fmctechnologies.com Hampton Inn www.greenriversuites.hamptoninn.com Infinity Power & Controls www.infinitypwr.com Integrated Power Services www.integratedps.com JFC Engineers Surveyors www.jfc-wyo.com Memorial Hospital www.sweetwatermedicalcenter.com Messco – A Moneyhun Company www.messco.com

Monsanto www.monsanto.com Mountain West Storage www.mountainweststorage.com QEP Resources Inc. www.qepres.com Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce www.rockspringschamber.com Rock Springs-Sweetwater County Airport www.rockspringsairport.com Rocky Mountain Power www.rockymountainpower.net Sage View Care Center www.kindredhealthcare.com Shell Oil Company www.shell.com/us Solvay Chemicals www.solvaychemicals.us Southwest Real Estate LLC www.southwestwyoming.com Sweetwater and Green River Television www.sweetwaterhsa.com Sweetwater County www.sweet.wy.us

Sweetwater County School District #2 www.sw2.k12.wy.us Sweetwater Events Complex www.sweetwaterevents.com Taco Time www.tacotime.com Trona Valley Community Federal Credit Union www.tronavalley.coop.com Vaughns Plumbing & Heating www.vaughnsplumbingandheating.com Vista Alta Storage Volcic Homes www.volcichomeandrv.com Waddell & Reed www.waddell.com Western Wyoming Community College www.wwcc.wy.edu Wyoming Land Title Company www.firstam.com/title-wy/sweetwater

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Health & Wellness

Hospitals, Care Centers Serve Sweetwater County With a variety of health care options in the community, Sweetwater County residents can enjoy convenient access to hospitals and care centers.

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Castle Rock Hospital District

Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County

This hospital district includes the Castle Rock Medical Center, Castle Rock Ambulance Service and The Villa, a personal care center for the elderly. The Castle Rock Medical Center supplies community members with a family practice clinic, wellness and rehabilitation services, and radiology. Patients have access to four physicians and four physician’s assistants, with additional staff members available as well. The Castle Rock Ambulance Service provides emergency services seven days a week, 24 hours a day and is comprised of state certified Emergency Medical Technicians.

First aid and CPR classes are offered to the public.

Making patients the priority for more than a century, Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County offers a myriad of services such as cardio rehabilitation, dialysis, emergency care and physical therapy. Serving a 100-mile radius, the not-for-profit hospital provides 99 beds and supplies emergency services for more than 24,000 individuals. The building recently received renovations and additions, with 64,000 square feet of the hospital updated and 54,000 square feet added to the existing structure. Patients can now enjoy an expanded obstetrics unit, complete with additional private rooms, as well as whirlpool tubs in labor delivery rooms and family nurseries.

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The Villa Assisting the elderly in safe, comfortable independent living, The Villa gives residents an alternative to typical apartment life. Located across from the Castle Rock Medical Center, The Villa employs a professional nursing staff available 24 hours a day to provide residents with convenient care. Residents can choose from furnished or unfurnished apartments and can enjoy sun rooms, activity areas, a dining room and a community living room. Three meals are provided each day, with laundry and maintenance services available, as well as in-house mail delivery. The Villa also offers barber and beauty services, daily and weekly newspaper deliveries and weekly church services.

Sage View Care Center Part of Kindred Healthcare, Sage View Care Center provides quality care to residents and patients alike by offering shortterm services as well as long-term care, based on individual needs.

This care center accommodates 86 residents, and also offers a locked Special Care Unit with 12 beds that serves individuals with dementia.

Nutritional counseling, outpatient services, wound care and a variety of medical and specialty services are offered as well.

In addition, residents may participate in an assortment of activities, such as outdoor recreation and small clubs.

– Jessica Walker

For more insight on Sweetwater County’s health and wellness offerings, head to the health care section at imagessweetwatercounty.com.

Antony Boshier

What’s Online

The newly renovated lobby of Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County

24-hour access, Seven days a week, 365 days a year Free weights | Cardio theater | Private showers 24-hour tanning available | Air conditioned Personal training | Towel service | Magazines 2441 Foothill Blvd.

ROCK SPRINGS (307) 389-1960 (307) 382-4441

410 Uinta Dr. GREEN RIVER (307) 875-6777

http://club.anytimefitness.com/clubs/rockspringswy

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1200 College Dr. • Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 362-3711 • (307) 875-7730

SPECIALTIES

• • • • • • • • •

Allergy Cardiology Ear, Nose & Throat Emergency Medicine Family Practice General Surgery Internal Medicine Nephrology Obstetrics & Gynecology

Brianne Crofts, MD General Surgery (307) 352-8192

• • • • • • •

Orthopedics Pediatrics Plastic Surgery Podiatry Psychiatry Radiology Urology

Terry Donaldson, MD Internal Medicine (307) 352-8125

DEPARTMENTS

• •

• • • • • •

Audiology Bio-Medical Engineering Cardiac Rehabilitation Cardio/Respiratory Dialysis Intensive Care Laboratory Labor & Delivery

Sigsbee W. Duck, MD Otolaryngology/Allergy (307) 352-8192

•

Ryan Fontanilla, MD Psychiatry (307) 352-8193

Medical Imaging – CAT Scan – Mammography – MRI – Nuclear – Ultrasound • Nutrition Services • Pharmacy • Physical Therapy • Sleep Disorder Lab • ICU

Chad Franks, MD General Surgery (307) 352-8192

1204 Hilltop Dr. Suites 107-109 Rock Springs, WY 82901 Augusto Jamias, MD General Surgery (307) 352-8192

Michael McInnis, MD Family Practice (307) 352-8193

Kerry McKenzie, PA-C Family Practice (307) 352-8193

Chris Moser, MD Family Practice (307) 352-8193

All of our physicians are Board Certified or Board Eligible.

www.sweetwatermedicalcenter.com

Health & Wellness

In Good Health Sweetwater County offers three animal hospitals Few things are as nerve wracking as trying to find a reliable place to treat a sick pet. Luckily, Sweetwater County has top-notch animal hospitals that offer everything from veterinary services and emergency surgeries to boarding and grooming facilities.

The Mountainaire Animal Clinic in Rock Springs has been in operation since veterinarian Paul Zancanella graduated and started his business in 1976. Ever since, the Mountainaire Animal Clinic has been a trustworthy place for Rock Springs residents and visitors to take their ailing dogs, cats and large animals.

At the Desert View Animal Hospital, another reliable animal care facility, Office Manager Kathy Shaw says pets are treated with the utmost sensitivity and care.

“Our professional and caring staff treats each animal as an individual – we do everything we can for their well-being,” she says.

“We cry when someone passes away, so we do everything we can to avoid that.”

Shaw adds that while Desert View keeps regular office hours (8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. until noon on Saturday), the animal hospital opens after hours for any emergency needs.

For more information about Mountainaire Animal Clinic, visit www.mountainaire animalclinic.com. Contact Kathy Shaw at (307) 362-3184 for information about the Desert View Animal Hospital.

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Image Gallery

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Rock formations between Rock Springs and Green River.

Photo by Antony Boshier

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A wild horse roams the countryside in Sweetwater County.

Photo by Jeff Adkins

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A hiker at White Mountain north of Rock Springs.

Photo by Antony Boshier

What’s Online  Visit imagessweetwatercounty.com to see more award-winning photography highlighting the places and people in Sweetwater County.

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Vaughn’s Plumbing and Heating was founded in 1963 on the basis of providing the highest quality work to residents in Sweetwater County. We have grown from a one-man shop to the leading mechanical contracting and service company in Southwest Wyoming. As a family-owned company, we believe in dependable service and doing the job right the first time – that’s our tradition.

415 N. CeNter St. • roCk SPriNgS, WY • (307) 362-7550 WWW.VAugHNSPlumbiNgANdHeAtiNg.Com

community profile Snapshot Rock Springs is the largest city in Sweetwater County, and the second-largest, Green River, is the county seat. Sweetwater County is home to 10,500 square miles of high desert adventure and offers excellent recreation opportunities, affordable housing and a variety of cultural activities.

cost of living

transportation

$216,000

13.64 minutes

Average Home Price

$58,083 Median Household Income

household info

48,000 Total Population

Climate overview

-30 F January Low Temperature

32 F January High Temperature

50 F July Low Temperature

3

Median Travel Time to Work

6% Use Public Transportation to Work

88% Drive/Carpool to Work

3% Walk/Bike/Other to Work

Average Household Size

10,324

numbers to know

Family Households

4,558 Non-Family Households

5,468 Households With Children

84 F

9,414

July High Temperature

Households Without Children

Sweetwater County Clerk’s Office 80 West Flaming Gorge Way Green River, WY 82935 (307) 872-6400 Sweetwater County Treasurer 80 W. Flaming Gorge Way Ste. 139 Green River, WY 82935 (307) 872-6380

This section is sponsored by

Civil Engineering • Geotechnical & Materials Testing Land Surveying & Mapping GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

“Committed to Your Success”

1515 Ninth St. • Rock Springs, WY • (307) 362-7519

Visit our new website at www.jfc-wyo.com.

JFC is proud to support the growth of Sweetwater County through our professional services.

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Look ma!

No liens!

Wyoming Land Title Company for your title insurance and real estate closing

582 654 2156 7 25 37 564 98 7125 19 5000 96 525 3 775 851 9500 45 2750 10500 1 65 2000 92 imagessweetwatercounty.com 120 8525 8 465 78 sweetwater speedway sits

6,250

Wyoming Land Title Company First American Title Insurance Company

feet above sea level

Learn fun and interesting facts about Sweetwater County in the By the Numbers video at

95 E. Flaming Gorge Way Green River, WY 82935 (307) 875-6700 (307) 362-6770

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medical facilities Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County 1200 College Dr. Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 362-3711, (307) 875-7730 www.sweetwater medicalcenter.com Castle Rock Medical Center 1400 Uinta Dr. Green River, WY 82935 (307) 872-4590 www.crhd.org

arts and culture Community Fine Arts Center 400 C St. Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 362-6212 www.cfac4art.com Rock Springs Historical Museum 201 B St. Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 362-3138 www.rswy.net

Sweetwater County Historical Museum 3 E. Flaming Gorge Way Green River, WY 82935 (307) 872-6435 www.sweetwatermuseum.org

Rock Springs Civic Center 410 N St. Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 352-1420 Rock Springs Family Recreation Center 3900 Sweetwater Drive Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 352-1440 www.rswy.net

WWCC Natural History Museum 2500 College Dr. Rock Springs, WY 82902 (307) 382-1600

Sweetwater County Events Complex 3320 Yellowstone Rd. Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 352-6789, Ext. 200 www.sweetwaterevents.com

Recreation Activities Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area Ashley National Forest 1450 Uinta Dr. Green River, WY 82935 (307) 875-2871 www.fs.fed.us

Sweetwater County Historical Trails www.tourwyoming.com

Green River Recreation Center 1775 Hitching Post Dr. Green River, WY 82935 (307) 872-0511 www.cityofgreenriver.org

Sweetwater County Parks Recreation Board 731 C St., Ste. 110 Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 922-5450 www.countyparks.net

Sweetwater Television Company is a locally owned and operated company that has provided economical and reliable cable television services to Sweetwater County residents since 1956.

Dedicated to providing a quality product and excellent service, the company employs the latest technology to provide customers with digital television, high-definition television, broadband Internet and voip phone service. Sweetwater Television also maintains an office in Green River under Green River Television.

100%al!

T Digi

602 Broadway Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 362-3773 www.sweetwaterhsa.com

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Ad Index

35 1st Bank Northside Branch

53 Anytime Fitness

C4 BP America

49 Communication Technologies Inc.

47 FMC

36 FMC Technologies

45 Rocky Mountain Power

15 Hampton Inn

53 Sage View Care Center

37 Monsanto

30 Mountain West Storage

6 QEP Resources Inc. C3 Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce 1 Rock Springs-Sweetwater County Airport

C2 Infinity Power & Controls

30 Shell Oil Company

33 Integrated Power Services

34 Solvay Chemicals

61 JFC Engineers Surveyors

62 Southwest Real Estate LLC

54 Memorial Hospital

63 Sweetwater and Green River Television

2 Messco – A Moneyhun Company

12 Sweetwater County

8 Sweetwater County School District #2

4 Sweetwater Events Complex

7 Taco Time

6 Trona Valley Community Federal Credit Union

60 Vaughns Plumbing & Heating

33 Vista Alta Storage

34 Volcic Homes

30 Waddell & Reed

9 Western Wyoming Community College 62 Wyoming Land Title Company

Growing Sweetwater County ‌

Together

Building the Future

• A true historic city with 56 nationalities, offering cultural diversity • The most populated and fastest growing city in Southwest Wyoming • Located on a major transportation corridor including Interstate 80, major flyways and Union Pacific Railroad • Offers an incredible number of amenities and services all contributing to an exceptional quality of life • Access point to unique off-road and water recreation resources 212 D St. • Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 352-1500 • www.rswy.net

No matter where residents hail from, Rock Springs quickly becomes home; comfortable but challenging, quiet but stimulating. We love it here and think you would too. Come see us.

• Abundant natural resources are the backbone for a strong economy • A leader in the nation’s energy production • Two-wheel capital of Wyoming • Hub of motor sports recreation • The premium health care provider in Sweetwater County

• Beautiful parks, pathways and Greenbelt trails • Public art sculptures grace the community 50 E. 2nd N. • Green River, WY 82935 (307) 875-0500 • www.cityofgreenriver.org

Green River is an oasis in the high desert country offering great quality of life blended with friendly Western attitude … everyone welcome and treated as a neighbor and friend. Unique shopping surrounded by history and stunning vistas … wildlife minutes away.

• Offering numerous services, amenities and outstanding quality of life • Origin of the Powell Expedition • West entrance of the Pilot Butte Wild Horse Loop Tour and portal to the Flaming Gorge Recreation Area Green River … Fish It … Float It … Live It!

• Create a strong local economy • Promote the community 1897 Dewar Dr. • Rock Springs, WY 82901 (307) 362-3771 • (800) GO-DUNES www.rockspringschamber.com

The Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to enhancing Sweetwater County’s quality of life and economic vitality through a cooperative Sweetwater County.

• Provide networking opportunities and business contacts • Represent business to government • Engage in political action Bringing businesses and communities together

Sweetwater County is Open and Ready for Your Business!

SWEDA offers grant application assistance, educational and networking opportunities for businesses in Sweetwater County. We believe in the value of sustainable growth, which applies to both new and existing businesses. SWEDA strives to be the one-stop shop for both potential and existing businesses by offering professional development services, including: • Advocacy • Training • Reference & Referral Service • Land & Building Site Selection • Workforce Development • Grant Application & Administration • Small-Business Assistance • Long-Term Business Planning • Provide Monthly Economic Trends/Indicators • Community Tours • Planning & Zoning Assistance • Business Conflict Resolution

Call SWEDA today at 307.352.6874 1575 Dewar Dr., Ste. 200 • Rock Springs, WY 82901

www.sweda.net