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PRBRC Celebrates 50 Years
Powder River Basin Resource Council (PRBRC) celebrated 50 Years of Protecting Wyoming’s Quality of Life, at their annual meeting on Saturday night, Nov. 5, at the Ramada Plaza. Over 80 people attended. The PRBRC currently has around 2,000 members, most in Wyoming from some from other states as well.
There was a supper, a slide show about their 50 years of working for Wyoming, and a panel discussion with some of the founding members. Preceding the supper, entertainment included music by the Fireants a local music group, and an auction featuring homemade, “Pies by Guys”, a popular fundraiser. One pie sold for $500, and many selling for $200 and up. Also auctioned where two original paintings and a fly-fishing rod.
There were several displays reflecting the organization’s 50-Year history and accomplishments, as well as look ahead to the future.
Since 1973, the Powder River Basin Resource Council has contributed to responsible development of Wyoming’s mineral resources, protected Wyoming’s agricultural heritage, and engaged in Wyoming’s democracy.
Joyce Evans, outgoing chairman, talked about the organization.
To celebrate this milestone event, the evening’s keynote panel discussion featured long-time members Bernie Barlow, Ronn Smith, Reed Zars, and Nancy Sorenson. Jill Morrison and Roger Sanders served as moderators for the panel.
Robin Englehart-Bagley, executive director, said Saturday’s meeting was celebratory, not only was it the 50th Anniversary meeting, but also the first in person meeting since 2019 due to Covid.
She also mentioned that several members who had been in the group since the beginning in 1973, were attending, as well as new members. She said it was wonderful for them to be able to meet and gain perspective from each other.
She also talked about the PRBRC’s commitment to renewal energy in Wyoming.
Some of the highlights from the groups 2022 annual report included: Record Reclamation at Powder River Basin Coal mines; PRBRC worked closely with Western Organization of Resource Councils to bring a lawsuit to end the National Coal Council advisory committee and pushed for closure of outdated and expensive coal plants. The PRBRC also supports renewal energy in the Sheridan area and throughout Wyoming.
