They are nonprofit organizations commonly formed to support historic, recreational, and conservation sites.  

With the current Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lease set to expire in 2029, this is a prudent time to engage in forward-looking discussions about the Cove’s future and the management parameters of the exchange parcels. The nonprofit was formed to encourage thoughtful, cooperative dialogue and to help facilitate a solution that serves Wyoming stakeholders and visitors alike.  

No. The nonprofit is independent and includes Wyoming residents from diverse backgrounds, both members of the Church and those who are not. Friends members do not represent the Church. The nonprofit has sought the Church’s support for a land exchange that would make the Church the permanent steward of Martin’s Cove and ensure continuity of management at the site. The nonprofit is familiar with the professional management of the Church’s Historic Sites Division and believes it is best positioned to continue the current visitor experience.  

While the existing lease has worked well, permanent ownership would provide long-term certainty and stability for operations, maintenance, and site planning. The nonprofit believes permanent management by the Church, which owns the private property to access the Cove, would formalize the successful practices already in place and ensure continued investment in preservation and the visitor experience.  

Yes. Public visitorship to Martin’s Cove began in 1996 with the Church’s acquisition of a portion of the Sun Ranch and has remained open to visitors throughout the Church’s management of the site since 2004. The proposed exchange will not change that. The Church would assume the costs of operating and maintaining the site while continuing to preserve its historical, cultural, and natural character. Wyoming Friends for Martin’s Cove supports the continuity of the visitors’ experiences at the site as a core principle of any long-term stewardship solution.

Independent resource surveys indicate the two parcels proposed for public acquisition contain significant ecological, recreational, and cultural resources. Together, they include nearly two miles of Sweetwater River frontage, approximately 145 total acres of wetlands, important wildlife habitat and migration corridors, and documented historic trail resources associated with westward expansion. The survey concluded the exchange would produce a net gain for the public in wildlife habitat, water resources, recreation, landscape connectivity, and protection of documented cultural resources.