Killebrews honored for conservation of ranch for wildlife benefit

Howard and Princess Killebrew and Killebrew Ranch were recognized for their ability to conserve important wildlife habitats while also operating their successful, multi-generational cattle ranch.

“Killebrew Ranch is a true multi-generation, family cattle ranch that produces Black Angus cattle in Fremont County,” said the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) during an award ceremony recognizing the 2017 Landowners of the Year.

Today, Howard and Princess’ son David manages the day-to-day, on-the-ground work at the ranch, while daughter Kimberly coordinates many of the critical behind-the-scenes duties.

“As a family ranch, David and Kimberly’s spouses and children contribute significantly to ranch operations,” WGFD said.

“The Killebrews own substantial landholdings on Table Mountain south of Lander,” WGFD continued. “This area provides important habitats for a host of wildlife, but most importantly, it provides crucial winter range for mule deer and nesting and brood-rearing habitat for sage grouse.”

Over the past three years, the Killebrew family worked with the WGFD to develop a conservation easement on Table Mountain to permanently protect their habitat. In addition to donating the easement, the Killebrews donated an access easement on Table Mountain.

“This easement will allow big game hunting access on the property and adjoining public lands – in perpetuity,” WGFD emphasized.

“The Killebrews, who are all avid sportspersons, truly care about the wildlife resource and understand the importance of land stewardship and wildlife habitat conservation,” WGFD commented. “It is with great admiration we presented the Killebrews with the 2017 Lander Region Landowner of the Year Award.”

This is the last of seven honorees recognized with the 2017 Wyoming Game and Fish Department Landowner of the Year Award. This year, Lonetree Ranch, Apache Foundation – Ucross Ranch, Upper Gros Ventre River Ranch, Mule Creek Ranch, Trout Creek Ranch and True Ranches – LAK Reservoir were also honored.

Saige Albert, managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup, compiled this article from the award program. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.