SHERIDAN - The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has signed a three-year access agreement with the new owners of Healy Reservoir. M&M Ranch has agreed to provide continued public access to this important local fishery near Buffalo at no charge.

"Continued access to Healy Reservoir is great news for local anglers" says Paul Mavrakis, Game and Fish regional fisheries supervisor. "Representatives from the M&M Ranch were fantastic to work with in getting the access agreement completed."

The Game and Fish plans to spend approximately $12,000 on improvements to the area including signage, post and cable barriers at the parking areas, fence repairs and eliminating unneeded roads. Vehicle access will only be allowed on the west side of the reservoir in three parking areas.

To address safety concerns, access will not be allowed on the east side of the reservoir off the highway or near the pump house. A primitive boat ramp will also be constructed at one of the parking areas.

Motorized travel will be limited to roads marked with white arrows. Camping, fireworks and shooting firearms are not permitted. If approved by the Game and Fish Commission at their July meeting, in 2008 boats will be allowed and anglers will have the statewide creel limits.

"The off-road travel that has been a problem in the recent past will no longer be tolerated," Mavrakis said. "If individuals are caught off marked roads and abusing their privileges on these private lands, they could be cited. If off-road travel continues to be a problem, the public may lose access to the reservoir so please obey the posted rules."
(contact: Warren Mischke or Paul Mavrakis (307) 672-7418, photo available on request)