WLM | my Wyoming craving
and navigate other natural challenges during their months long journeys.
Yellowstone Migrations also describes the man-made obstacles—such as major
highways, barbed wire fences, rural and urban developments, and, now, a
changing climate—which are putting strain on the animals as they migrate.
“What I hope to do is to encourage people to see the landscape from the
animals’ point of view,” says Joe Riis. “Animals don’t see boundaries or
borders. Their quest for food and shelter is instinctual, and I hope my
images help people to understand and experience that in a visceral way.”
An improved scientific understanding of migration in the region, through
collaring and other research techniques, has helped to inform better
management and conservation efforts in the region.
Each time wildlife biologists identify a pinch point (a place where the
landscapes constrain movement) they have a new opportunity to take a step
to enable migration to continue there. One simple-to-implement measure—
fencing with a barbless bottom strand more than 16 inches off the ground—
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Wyoming Lifestyle Magazine | Summer 2018
About Braided River
Yellowstone Migrations was published
under the Braided River imprint from
Mountaineers Books focused on
highlighting the wildest places in western
North America. Braided River brings
exceptional nature photography together
with thought-provoking essays to create
books, immersive events and museum
exhibits, and partners with conservation
organizations to preserve wilderness. www.
braidedriver.org