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Originally Posted by igloo
Looking at ranch property about 8 miles northeast of Lusk. Would appreciate any current information on the area from anyone who may be familiar with any water problems, friendliness of the locals, wind problems, snow problems, etc. I know Wyoming is known for windy conditions in most of the state and the occasional times of being snowbound for a couple of days in some parts depending on snow storm severity. Thanks in advance for information.
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Lusk is very small, and if you're living 8 miles NE of town, you won't have many problems with the neighbors
Weather, is generally windy and poor. Theres something about the terrain and the prevailing winds that seems to channel a lot of snow there. As for the water. I know that the drinking water in town is pretty bad, but you'll have to test the water on your own property. While we're on the subject, you need to THOROUGHLY acquaint yourself with Wyoming's mineral and water laws, as there may be many things on "your" ranch that don't belong to you. Many newcomers find this out the hard way.
The town itself has few amenities-- a single small grocery, a hardware store, two gas stations, a convenience store, and a few restaurants and bars-- generally enough for immediate needs, but you'll be going to Douglas or Casper for much of your shopping and entertainment.
The major employers are the local government (Lusk is the county seat) and the Wyoming Womens' prison, which hires a goodly number of out-of-staters (but most of them quit almost immediately and move away). Often the men like Lusk, but their wives object to the lack of shopping.
The other newcomers are black bears, several of which have been sighted in town after being gone for many decades. Some of the locals speculate that the re-introduction of wolves into the western part of the state has caused competitive pressures that are forcing bears into new areas.
The townspeople are not unfriendly, but some of them are a bit clannish, so you will have to earn their trust and friendship. Joining a church or fraternal group usually helps.
There is some good news-- the town may be entering a boom cycle for oil, methane and uranium extraction, so there may be a lot of other new folks coming to town. I've heard the a local rancher who is descended from the original pioneers (and thus actually has mineral rights on his own property) is selling out for many millions of $$.
Best food in town (IMO) is the Outpost truck stop on the southern edge of town.
Good luck, and welcome to Wyoming.