$5.1 million refuge watering system helps delay elk, bison supplemental feeding

Forage produced from a new sprinkler system is likely spreading out elk and delaying the start of supplemental feeding on the National Elk Refuge, officials say. Last summer was the first year staff used the $5.1 million system, which, when fully operational, will increase irrigation from 900 to 4,300 acres. During field sampling Thursday, National Elk Refuge and Wyoming Game and Fish Department biologists found forage that’s still available for elk to eat, despite recent heavy snowfall...more

A sprinkler system for elk?  And they can't balance the budget.