KEYNote
ABOUT
We are pleased to announce that the keynote speaker for the 2026 WORS is awe pioneer, National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, Executive Director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, and US Army Veteran Stacy Bare!
Get ready for Stacy’s keynote, “Transformative experiences outdoors are good for business." Stacy brings his decades of experience in programming and infrastructure in outdoor recreation to discuss why and how ensuring access to the outdoors for all means good business for communities, outdoor and outdoor adjacent brands and services.
BIO
Stacy Bare is a father, husband, outdoorsmen, veteran, writer, and speaker. He is currently the Executive Director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks in Grand Rapids, MI. He and his team are working to create community through nature by planting trees, building trails, and restoring habitat. The end goal is that everyone in Grand Rapids has maximum access to experiences of everyday awe. Before turning his work towards infrastructure, he spent years in outdoor programming and large landscape conservancy. His work with Dr. Dacher Keltner of the Greater Good Science Center has been foundational to the explosion of research and conversation about the health benefits of time outdoors. He has been called an ‘awe pioneer’, recognized as a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year and was at different times sponsored by The North Face, Pret Helmets, Trew Gear, and OARS for expeditionary film making that includes a first ski ascent and descent of Mt. Halgurd in Iraq, skiing in Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Japan, as well as climbing in Angola and rafting in rivers across the United States. He was commissioned as a US Army Officer out of the University of Mississippi in 2000 where he also received a BA in Philosophy. He has a Bronze Star for Merit from his time in Iraq, served in Bosnia, worked in land mine clearance in Angola and Abkhazia in the Republic of Georgia and received a Masters in City Planning from the University of Pennsylvania. He falls and laughs a lot outside and is surprisingly slow on a bike
Agenda
Thursday, April 30
8:00 AM – 8:45 AM Breakfast & Check-in
Platte Valley Community Center
9:00 AM Field Trips Depart
Check ‘Field Trips’ section for details!
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM [field trip option at PVCC] Building Place Based Learning Partnerships: Reengaging Students with the Outdoors (Nathan Tedjeske)
This session will be focused on how to build both partnerships and programming for
schools and students. Outline ways local businesses can provide unique opportunities
for local children, while giving their business exposure to the future workforce.
This workshop will incorporate a presentation, a large amount of Q&A and work time
as participants develop plans and proposals that could be used in their communities.
1:30 – 2:00 PM Field Trips Return
Platte Valley Community Center
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM Welcome Address (Dan McCoy, Director, Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute; Mark Tesoro, Manager, Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation; Chris Floyd, Deputy Director, Wyoming State Parks)
Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute, Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, Wyoming State Parks
2:30 PM – 2:45 PM Break
2:45 PM – 3:45 PM Transformative Experiences Outdoors are Good for Business (Stacy Bare, Executive Director, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks)
Awe pioneer, National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, Executive Director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, and US Army Veteran Stacy Bare brings his decades of experience in programming and infrastructure in outdoor recreation to discuss why and how ensuring access to the outdoors for all means good business for communities, outdoor and outdoor adjacent brands and services.
3:45 PM – 4:00 PM Break
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Wyoming’s Outdoor Recreation Collaboratives: Spotlight (Amy Crawford, Andrea Maichak, Zulima Lopez, Sandra Sanderson, Luke Thorkildsen, Rick Tryder, and Darran Wells)
The Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation convenes and facilitates 12 Outdoor Recreation Collaboratives. Engaging voices from businesses, non-profits, clubs, elected officials, students, conservation groups, land owners, agency advisors and community members, these Collaboratives are a public, community-driven conversation about how to improve the quality, quantity and sustainability of Wyoming’s exceptional outdoor recreation spaces. In this session, you will be hearing from 6 Collaborative members and advisors from around the state as they share how their experiences are impacting their communities and agencies.
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM Social Hour
Sponsored by WYORBA. Network, mingle, and enjoy appetizers and a cash bar!
Dinner on your own–enjoy Saratoga’s finest!
Friday, May 1
OPTIONAL: Sage-Grouse Viewing Tour with Cindy and Steve Loose
Interested in watching male sage-grouse perform their spring courtship strutting display on a lek? Join retired U.S. Forest Service wildlife biologist Steve Loose for this special early-morning experience.
Meet at the Platte Valley Community Center at 5:30 a.m. on Friday, May 1. A bus with seating for up to 40 people will depart from there for the 20-minute ride north of Saratoga to the lek viewing area and parking site. Please note that no restrooms are available.
Participants should dress very warmly, including a warm hat, coat, gloves, and other cold-weather layers. To provide the clearest viewing opportunity, the bus will be turned off at the lek and the windows will remain down. Everyone will stay on the bus at the viewing area to avoid disturbing the birds.
Binoculars are helpful for a closer look but are not required. Photography is welcome!
8:00 AM – 8:30 AM Breakfast & Check-in
Platte Valley Community Center
8:30 AM – 8:45 AM Welcome Remarks
8:45 AM – 10:00 AM Where Trails Meet Travelers: The Crossroads of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism (Domenic Bravo, Executive Director, Wyoming Office of Tourism; Kalene Griffith, President and CEO, Visit Bentonville)
Outdoor recreation is reshaping destinations across the country, transforming communities, fueling local economies, and inspiring a new generation of travelers seeking authentic experiences. In this engaging fireside chat, Domenic Bravo, Executive Director of the Wyoming Office of Tourism, sits down with Kalene Griffith, CEO of Visit Bentonville, to explore how outdoor recreation and tourism intersect to create thriving destinations. From Bentonville’s rise as a global mountain biking hub to Wyoming’s legendary wide‑open landscapes, the conversation will explore how communities can invest in outdoor assets, build meaningful visitor experiences, and ensure tourism enhances quality of life for residents. Attendees will hear insights on partnerships, destination branding, infrastructure investment, and the evolving role of tourism leaders in stewarding both places and experiences. Through stories, lessons learned, and a look toward the future, this discussion will highlight how destinations of all sizes can harness the power of outdoor recreation to drive sustainable tourism growth and community pride.
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM Break
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM Concurrent Sessions I
The Secret on How to Get Things Done (Dan McCoy, Sarah Brown Mathews, Austin Burgess and Brendan Kelley)
This panel explores how to move projects from idea to implementation, focusing on real-world trail and recreation efforts in Wyoming and the surrounding region. Panelists will share firsthand insights on building partnerships, navigating public land processes, and overcoming common obstacles. Through case studies and discussion, attendees will learn what separates successful projects from those that stall. The session will conclude with practical advice and key lessons for turning concepts into completed projects.
Bridging the Gap and Building Collaborations (Jennifer Ricupero and Linda Merigliano)
Friends of the Bridger-Teton is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing capacity for resource stewardship, connecting people to the National Forest, and supporting projects that help care for the land and serve people. The work is based on three pillars – Learn, Collaborate, and Act. We will share what led to the organization’s successful launch and how the Friends has evolved to connect with community leaders in order to meet new challenges and expand to a multi-landscape focus. Participants will leave with at least one actionable idea for a potential new partner or to expand the work of an existing partner.
Planning the Future we Want: State Funding for Responsible Recreation (Brynn Hirschman and Meghan Riley)
Wyoming's new Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Fund (ORTTF) is up and running, reviewing its first batch of applications for outdoor recreation project funding. Working to respond to the growing demand for outdoor recreation opportunities in concert with the needs of Wyoming communities, join us to learn about ORTTF, what projects are eligible for grant funding, and how to optimize your chances of success during the application process.
Using the Outdoor Recreation Adoption Model to Modernize Legacy Programs (Ashley Leonard and William Poole)
The field of recruitment, retention and reactivation of hunters and anglers is based on the Outdoor Recreation Adoption Model (ORAM). This model was developed for hunting and fishing, but is applicable to any outdoor recreation. In this presentation, we will discuss what the ORAM model is, how we use it as a tool to understand where we are and where we are going, and, finally, how we have used it to modernize legacy programs at Whiskey Mountain Conservation Camp to fit within a more robust framework. Furthermore, we will discuss how these actions align with our goal of building new partnerships with a variety of organizations and bringing new generations into the fold of historic programs and activities. Finally, we will tie it all together by explaining how we evaluate program goals against the ORAM model and other departmental objectives.
11:15 AM – 11:45 AM Morning Break
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Buffet Lunch
Enjoy a buffet lunch provided by Bella’s Bistro. Raffle winners will be announced at 12:30 pm!
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Vendor Expo & Networking Hour
Stretch your legs and engage with our amazing vendors! Coffee and sweet treats available.
2:15 PM – 3:15 PM Concurrent Sessions II
Building Community Stewardship to Support Outdoor Recreation on Public Lands (will start at 1:45 PM - Richard Vercoe, Austin Burgess, Devin Erickson, Nicole Foss, Jamie Hansen and Sevi Shperun)
As demand for outdoor recreation on Wyoming's public lands grows, land managers face financial and staffing constraints. This panel and workshop brings together members of the US Forest Service, Wyoming Office of Recreation, Central Wyoming Trail Alliance, Common Outdoor Ground (COG) and Wyo Trail FAIRIES to explore how community-based stewardship programs can bridge the gap. Through panel discussion and interactive breakout stations, participants will identify land manager needs, discover funding and partnership opportunities, and learn how to build effective local stewardship programs that sustain our public lands for generations to come.
Cultivating Political Allies (Sandy Newsome and Jerimiah Rieman)
Strong relationships with elected officials don’t happen by accident, they’re built over time through trust, preparation, and a willingness to work together. In this session, former state legislator and business leader Sandy Newsome joins Jerimiah Rieman to share real-world insights on how communities can more effectively engage local, state, and federal decision-makers to advance outdoor recreation. Drawing on experience in local and state government, tourism leadership, and public service, Sandy and Jerimiah will offer practical advice on getting to know your elected leaders, communicating your priorities, and building partnerships that lead to results. They will also share examples from their own work advancing policy, particularly through the Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Fund, to highlight what effective collaboration looks like in practice. This session will emphasize preparation, flexibility, and partnership, giving attendees tools they can immediately apply to move outdoor recreation initiatives forward in their communities.
The Tech Frontier of Access: Beyond Infinite Outdoors (Sam Seeton and Liz Lightner)
Sam Seeton, CEO of Infinite Outdoors, will speak on how his Casper-based company has teamed up with landowners to allow managed, fee-based or free access to (or through) private property through an online and app-based booking platform. Free access is provided through their Access Granted Initiative. The primary focus has been to allow access for hunting and fishing. With the recent addition of the Golden Rule Ranch property, rock climbers will now have FREE access to (never before) sport climbing in the Wind River Canyon! Landowner, Liz Lightner, will speak about why she opted to partner with Infinite Outdoors to share her husband's vision.
Gravel Road Adventure Field Guides: Opportunities for Wyoming (Stephen Benerski)
Gravel adventures open up options for out-of-the-box outdoor recreation development. John Stephen Benerski from Gravel Adventure Field Guides for a look into the economic development opportunities associated with the growth of gravel pathway tourism. This session will explore development opportunities for Wyoming, including the Great American Rail Trail in Lovell and Greybull.
3:15 PM – 3:45 PM Afternoon Break
3:45 PM – 4:45 PM Concurrent Sessions III
Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Business Session
- Founded Outdoors - Wyoming Outdoor Business Needs Assessment and Recommendations (Ruth Mayapa, Tom Salerno and Carter Watsabaugh)
This session presents findings from a statewide survey and stakeholder interviews with outdoor recreation businesses across Wyoming. The research highlights key challenges, opportunities, and resource needs identified by business owners. It also offers practical recommendations to support business growth, strengthen industry connections, and inform future mentorship and development programs. Attendees will gain insights into how Wyoming’s outdoor economy can be better supported through collaboration, targeted resources, and strategic planning.
- Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Business Alliance (WYORBA) Information Session (Cheyenne Sterck)
Join WYORBA’s new Executive Director for a brief overview of the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Business Alliance, followed by small-group discussions focused on real-world business needs and opportunities. After a 10–15 minute presentation covering WYORBA’s mission, current initiatives, and ways to get involved, participants will break into conversation tables to share insights, challenges, and ideas related to Wyoming’s outdoor recreation economy. This interactive session is designed to foster connection, gather input, and ensure WYORBA’s work reflects the needs of businesses and communities across the state.
White Meeting Room: Search and Rescue In Wyoming (Sheriff Alex Bakkan, Mike Cavalier and Brynn Hirshman)
This session will provide an overview of Search and Rescue Programs across Wyoming. Panelists will discuss the challenges and opportunities of county-led SAR programs, give insight into critical case studies and mission evolution, and provide takeaways for session attendees to support their local SAR program.
University of Wyoming Student Presentation: Fly Fishing Guide School Development and Best Practices (Katy Fleming, Cole Guerra and Konnor Gregory)
Konner Gregory, Cole Guerra, and Katy Fleming, seniors in the Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Management program at the University of Wyoming have conducted research to identify standards and best practices for fly fishing guide school development in the state of Wyoming. As the guided fishing industry continues to grow across the state, the need for an established foundational framework for guide training has become increasingly important. This Capstone project addresses that need by identifying baseline standards designed to promote industry longevity, further conservation efforts, and elevate the quality of guided fishing endeavors in the state of Wyoming. These best practices and standards can be utilized as a resource for guide schools, outfitters, and industry professionals focused on advancing the profession and ensuring its future success.
Tie Hack Trail Rehabilitation Project (Michael Kusiek)
For fourteen years, flooding and a lack of funding left the Tie Hack Trail near Saratoga nearly impassable, frustrating hikers, mountain bikers, hunters, and the broader community that had long cherished this corridor. This presentation walks through how Wyoming Pathways planned, funded, and executed the restoration of this beloved trail from the ground up. Michael Kusiek will cover the full arc of the project, from initial planning and contractor selection through the realities of construction, including bridge installation, debris removal, major trail rerouting, and the challenges of working in a dynamic high-country environment. He will discuss what went as planned, what didn't, and what Wyoming Pathways learned along the way about managing complex trail infrastructure work at scale. The result is a restored trail that has become a regional draw and a daily source of community pride, and an organization with significantly expanded technical capacity for future projects across Wyoming.
4:45 PM Closing Remarks
Dinner on your own - enjoy Saratoga’s finest!
(Agenda last updated April 20, 2026)
REGISTRATION
Secure your spot at the 2026 Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Summit now! Registration closes on April 24, 2026. Registration fees include breakfast and lunch on Thursday and Friday, access to all sessions both days, and optional field trips on Thursday morning.
Lodging
Room blocks have been released to the general public, but you can still find a spot to stay at one of the options below. Mention that you are with the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Summit!
Copperline Lodge: 307-321-5544
Hacienda Motel: 307-326-5751
Riviera Motor Lodge: 307-326-5651
Sage Motel: 307-326-8339
Saratoga Hot Springs Resort: 307-326-5261
Snowy Mountain Inn: 307-326-5974
Field trips
Please consider joining us for one of our amazing field trip options! If you want to attend a field trip, fill out this form by Friday, April 24.
Historic Downtown Walking Tour + Saratoga Museum Exploration
- Join a local expert on a walking tour of historic Saratoga! Starting at 9 am, this tour will start with a stroll through the downtown streets and will end up at the Saratoga Museum, where you will receive a tour of a historic cabin and railroad car! You can also purchase souvenirs and enjoy your bagged lunch in the gazebo. Comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, and weather-appropriate layers are recommended.
Grand Encampment Museum Tour
- Carpool on a scenic 25-minute drive to Encampment, Wyoming, and take a guided tour of the Grand Encampment Museum with Director Tim Nicklas. The Grand Encampment Museum is home to over a dozen historical buildings filled with artifacts that represent the valley’s timber, mining, and agricultural history. The tour should take between 2-2.5 hours, so you will have time to explore on your own (weather permitting!).
Tie Hack Trail Guided Hike
- Join Wyoming Pathways Executive Director Michael Kusiek for a guided field trip along the Tie Hack Trail, one of the region's most historically rich and scenic natural corridors. We will depart Saratoga at 8:30 am and travel approximately 40 minutes to the Northern Trailhead, where our five-mile out-and-back walk begins. The trail follows a gently graded path through stunning high-country terrain, making it accessible to most participants who are comfortable walking at a relaxed pace. Along the route, Michael will lead discussions covering the deep history of the trail and surrounding landscape, how modern trails are planned, designed, and constructed, and the specific construction elements that define the Tie Hack Trail, including bridge installation, debris removal, and thoughtful trail rerouting to protect both users and the environment. Participants can expect frequent stops along the way for photos, group discussion, and simply taking in the beauty of the area. Plan for a pace of approximately 2.5 miles per hour, with ample time built in to explore and connect with the landscape. Participants should bring sturdy walking shoes, water, layers for changing mountain weather, and a sense of curiosity.
Saratoga National Fish Hatchery Tour
- Join Matt Wipf at the Saratoga National Fish Hatchery! The tour will start at 10 am and will last around an hour; you can explore on your own afterwards! You are encouraged to wear tennis/hiking shoes, as the floor may be wet and the terrain changes. Bring water and sunscreen, especially if it is sunny. This tour is handicap accessible.
Grounded Workshop: Building Place Based Learning Partnerships and Re-engaging Students with the Outdoors
- Arriving later to Saratoga? Consider joining Nathan Tedjeske (Wyoming Department of Education) for a workshop session focused on efforts to get public school students in the outdoors! Starting at 10 am, this session will be focused on how to build both partnerships and programming for schools and students. Outline ways local businesses can provide unique opportunities for local children, while giving their business exposure to the future workforce. This workshop will incorporate a presentation, a large amount of Q&A and work time as participants develop plans and proposals that could be used in their communities. This session will be held at the Platte Valley Community Center.
Reach out to Taylor Kruger (tkruger@uwyo.edu) with any questions.
Support the Event
Thank you so much to the following organizations for their generous sponsorship of the 2026 Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Summit: Discover Carbon County, Wagner's, Visit Casper, Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, Casper College Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Management, NOLS Rocky Mountain, Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources, Power Company of Wyoming, Wyoming Conservation Corps, and Pointe Strategies.
Interested in receiving updates and more information on the 2026 summit as it becomes available?
