Wyoming Threatens to Sell Grand Teton National Park Land: Is That Wrong?
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July 5, 2010— -- The State of Wyoming is threatening to sell part of a national treasure: the Grand Teton National Park.
The state's governor, Dave Freudenthal (D), is threatening to put two square miles of land up for sale -- land with views of the breathtaking Teton range and an asking price of $125 million -- unless the Interior Department will trade for land, minerals or mineral royalties.
The Wyoming state constitution requires the governor and other state officials to manage state lands for maximum profit, and right now, the Teton tract generates just $3,000 a year from cattle grazing.
The Interior Department says it's working with the state to resolve the issue, but Wyoming claims it has been trying to make a trade for a decade. Now, state officials say, their patience has run out.
Private groups have raised opposition, as have representatives of Grand Teton National Park itself.
"These are wildlife-rich habitats, completely surrounded by pristine park land," park spokeswoman Jacke Skaggs told the AP. "For obvious reasons, Grand Teton National Park would be very, very concerned and disappointed if these lands were sold for development."
So, our question to you today: Is it wrong for Wyoming to sell a part of Grand Teton National Park?
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
