Norm Pape will tell you that family is the most important factor in the success of Pape Ranches. The operation is run entirely by Norm and Barbara Pape and their sons, David and Fred, and their families.

The Pape Family has a long tradition of utilizing conservation practices to keep the operation economically and environmentally sustainable. They place high emphasis on grazing management and manipulate sagebrush on their land to increase forage production for cattle and wildlife. The family also uses fencing to maintain naturally occurring windbreaks and to allow for the passage of wildlife. They partner with Wyoming's Game & Fish Department and Transportation Department to install wildlife-friendly fencing along Highway 191.

The Papes are leaders in their community. Norm has been a member of the Green River Valley Cattlemen’s Association for decades. The family supports 4-H, and Norm and Barbara have opened their home to youth to educate them about the importance of wildlife and natural resources.

“The Pape Family is known for their integrity, hard work, and willingness to give to the community,” wrote Darrell Walker, Sublette County Conservation District Chairman, in his letter of recommendation. “They are one of many Wyoming ranch families that are good stewards of the land, their community, their state, and nation.”

Although the Papes are proud of their accomplishments, they have a deep appreciation for those before them who laid the foundation for what the ranch is today.

“We’re only here for a short time,” Fred Pape said. “We’re just stewards on this land, just like my great-grandfather, my grandfather, and my dad, and they’ve all made positive moves to make this land better.”