South Pass City State Historic Site was incorporated as a state historic site in 1967 by the Wyoming 75^th Anniversary Commission. Over the past 39 years, the site has made tremendous progress in restoration, public programs and promotion. In 2003, the State of Wyoming purchased the Carissa Mine. The purchase ushered in a new phase of development at SPC. With the mine, came 9 historic structures, 11 significant mine features and 201 acres. This acreage added to the existing site makes South Pass City one of the largest historic site in the state. South Pass City now has the potential for historic interpretation, nature trails and recreational opportunities for the people of the state and nation. Aside from expanding the scale of the site, the Carissa allows site staff to interpret the “whole picture” of life – both economic and social - in a mining town of the early 20^th century.

Our most important partner to date in the Carissa project has been the Abandoned Mine Lands Division of the Department of Environmental Quality. AML has worked with site staff to plan and implement a hazard mitigation strategy for the Carissa property. This multiphase project will be completed in the fall of 2008. Meanwhile, AML provided funding for the development of a strategic plan so that SPC can guarantee the mine will remain safe and provide educational opportunities for years to come. East Bank Communications, of Portland Oregon, was contracted to help draft this ten-year plan, which details the growth and development of the site.

The attached PDF includes the Strategic Plan Framework, which will guide site policy development over the next two years, and a copy of the Interpretive and Exhibition Plans. These documents will guide how site staff will interpret the resources of South Pass City State Historic Site to the public.