By Dana Davis Reporter, Carbon County Comet
Wyoming’s wildlife is more than a scenic backdrop, it’s a driving force behind the state’s thriving tourism industry. Recognizing the need to give back to the natural resources that sustain the economy, the Riviera Motor Lodge in Saratoga has partnered with WYldlife for Tomorrow to launch a first-of-its-kind initiative in Wyoming.
The lodge’s newest attraction, The WYld Room, is a unique concept designed to celebrate the state’s wildlife and landscapes while directly supporting conservation efforts. A portion of every reservation in The WYld Room will be donated to WYldlife for Tomorrow, a signature program of The WYldlife Fund.
Kim Hytrek, general manager of the Riviera Motor Lodge, first encountered WYldlife for Tomorrow at the Wyoming Governor’s Hospitality and Tourism Conference two years ago. The program’s mission to connect tourism-based businesses with conservation projects resonated deeply.
“I met the leaders of the WYldlife for Tomorrow Fund directors, Chris McBarnes and Taylor Phillips, at the Governor’s Tourism and Hospitality Conference two years ago and have watched them develop this outstanding program to preserve and educate about the wildlife we value so very much in Wyoming,” Hytrek said. “I thought to myself how cool it would be to get behind this in some way. Having an outstanding artist here made the dream of a wildlife mural added to one of our premiere king rooms a huge success! Being the first in Wyoming with this vision to partner in such a way makes this so exciting! For every guest’s stay in this room, a donation will be made to the Fund. It is a definite win-win for all, and we are so happy to be a part of this wonderful program! Come check it out and support our wildlife preservation for future generations.”
After the conference, Hytrek and lodge owner John Evans brainstormed ways to integrate wildlife conservation into their business. The result was The WYld Room, featuring a floor-to-ceiling mural painted by Saratoga artist Lori Kostur. A Wyoming resident for over three decades, Kostur brought her passion for wildlife and landscapes into the intricate design, creating an immersive experience for guests.
In addition to The WYld Room, the Riviera Motor Lodge has teamed up with Bella’s Bistro and the Saratoga Museum to host a special raffle benefiting WYldlife for Tomorrow and the Saratoga Museum. The prize package includes a night’s stay in The WYld Room, a Valentine’s dinner at Bella’s Bistro, and two entries to the Frozen Fore ice golf scramble on February 15. Tickets are available at https://go.rallyup.com/rivieraraffle or call the Riviera Motor Lodge at 307-326-5651 for details.
The Riviera Motor Lodge’s initiative sets a precedent for how Wyoming’s tourism industry can actively participate in conservation. As visitors continue to enjoy the state’s wildlife and landscapes, partnerships like these can ensure that future generations will have the same opportunity to experience Wyoming’s natural wonders.
