One difficult thing to understand in Wyoming culture is the differences in political views. While never talked about explicitly, I’ve pick up on passing comments about the political climate and hear more conservative perspectives. Employees at the ranch have talked about how much they value the environment, it’s their life. Currently, the conservative side is not aligned with conservation and preservation. As someone that votes with the environment as a top priority, I have trouble understanding a conservative perspective while also valuing the environment.

I hope to work toward resolution by continuing to get to know and understand perspectives of people on the ranch. Today’s political climate is very polarizing. I try not to let politics get in the way of meeting and learning about new people. Everyone has had great conversation with staff at the ranch and people working in the Yellowstone area who we’ve met. I hope that this experience makes me see politics through a less polarizing lens.