2nd National Extension Nat Res Conference-Abstract 38

Joseph G. Hiller and J. Daniel Rodgers, Department of Renewable Resources, University of Wyoming, Box 3354 University Station, Laramie, WY 82071-3354; 307.766.3709; jhiller@uwyo.edu

Commissioners in Wyoming preside over mostly rural and/or public lands-dominated counties. They frequently address natural resource issues, but their formal role in the development of policy is, in practice, poorly defined. Considerable localized public attention and pressure is drawn to such issues. As part-time elected officials, commissioners are regularly in need of both process skills and technically oriented information in support of their evolving roles.

An investigation of the environment in which commissioners operate was conducted. The resulting literature review and survey sought to develop knowledge and understanding about the resources used by commissioners for gaining information and advice, and how they relate with their publics--both citizens and other government agencies alike in specific contexts of natural resources and decision-making.

The relationship between Wyoming boards of county commissioners and other individuals, groups, and agencies with natural resources management and policy missions is troubled somewhat by public lands and public resources issues. Much of the decision-making on Wyoming?s public resources is made by state and federal agencies with little direct consideration of local government concerns. Commissioners are highly frustrated with federal agencies in particular. They desire to be more appropriately and consistently involved in issues dialogue, with high quality and frequent interaction with these policy influencers.

The major contribution of this research was a better understanding of who county commissioners use as information sources and who influences their public policy decisions about natural resources. Commissioner opinions of the value of selected organizations and institutions relative to specific needs in support of their natural resource issues role was also investigated. Overwhelmingly, commissioners chose to consult with county government officials--with more regularity, confidence and credibility than any other agency or institution. They used those consultations to form the basis of their decision-making 100% of the time. No other agencies or groups were utilized as heavily, as consistently, or for such a high percentage of decision-making dependence as county government officials.