Due to the large amounts of patented land, active mining claims, and geo-thermal/oil/gas leasing in the vicinity of the Greater Yellowstone Area Network (GRYE) researchers began to worry about how these disturbed areas may affect the resources protected

Due to the large amounts of patented land, active mining claims, and geo-thermal/oil/gas leasing in the vicinity of the Greater Yellowstone Area Network (GRYE) researchers began to worry about how these disturbed areas may affect the resources protected by the GRYE (Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park and Big Horn Canyon Recreation Area). Utilizing information from the Bureau of Land Management a relational database was linked to GIS data layers to analyze areas of potential encroachment.