The National Park Service, together with its official nonprofit and philanthropic partner, Yellowstone Forever, and Blackstone Infrastructure portfolio company Tallgrass, has announced the establishment of a $105 million Conservation and Stewardship Fund, creating a permanent source of support for the long-term stewardship of the world’s first national park.

The fund will direct resources toward three priorities essential to Yellowstone’s long-term stewardship: advancing conservation and research to extend the reach and impact of the park’s scientific work; enhancing access and visitor experience through investments in infrastructure; and expanding opportunities for Wyoming students and community members to experience Yellowstone.

This effort will include the establishment of the Tallgrass WYld Yellowstone Initiative, named for the long-time Wyoming energy infrastructure operator with more than a decade of operations in the Cowboy State.

“More than 120 years ago, President Theodore Roosevelt laid the cornerstone of Yellowstone’s iconic gateway, enshrining the promise that our National Parks exist for the benefit and enjoyment of the American people,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. “This historic $105 million investment honors that legacy, bringing together the best of American enterprise and conservation to expand access to Yellowstone and inspire the next generation to experience America’s great outdoors. We’re grateful to Blackstone, Tallgrass and Yellowstone Forever for their partnership and extraordinary commitment.”

Yellowstone is one of America’s great natural treasures, and the organizations feel a profound sense of responsibility to protect it for future generations, said Sean Klimczak, Blackstone’s global head of infrastructure.

“This historic gift reflects our belief that infrastructure investment can and should be a force for good, helping us invest in Yellowstone’s future and the growth of the communities that surround it,” he said.

Lisa Diekmann, President & CEO of Yellowstone Forever called the gift “a transformational investment in Yellowstone National Park.”

“It gives us the ability to meet urgent needs today while building enduring support for the research, education, stewardship and visitor infrastructure that will protect this park for generations to come,” Diekmann said.

And, Crystal Heter, president and chief executive officer of Tallgrass, said Yellowstone captures something timeless about the spirit of this state. 

“We’re proud to do our part to preserve what makes Yellowstone so extraordinary and to strengthen its connection with the next generation,” she said.

The National Park Service will retain full authority over park management decisions, and projects supported through the fund will be consistent with applicable laws, policies and park priorities.