A proposal to build 71 homes and a private golf course adjacent to the scenic Snake River about 17 miles south of the Town of Jackson has caused a stir among environmentalists, river outfitters and outdoor enthusiasts. The project, known as the Canyon Club, is anticipated to cause the loss of 18 bald eagles on or near the development.
The area in question provides some of the highest quality bald eagle nesting and foraging habitat within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. If eagles are displaced, the Forest Service may have to restrict public use on the Snake River.
American Whitewater supports the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance and their efforts to ensure that if development occurs in that ecologically sensitive area, it will have the least impact possible on the natural resources and river recreation.
Please attend the Teton County Commission Meetings at 6PM on Thursday, March 20 or 9AM on Tuesday, March 25 in the Snow King Grand Room or write the Teton County commissioners at commissioners@tetonwyo.org and ask them to support an alternative that works for the developer AND the community.
Local activists, including boaters, fishermen, and birdwatchers have identified their objectives using the P.E.R.C.H. acronym.
P = Public River Access
E = Eagle Protection
R = River, Scenic and Wild
C = Community Values
H = Habitat for Wildlife
For more information call Anne Hayden at the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance at 307-733-9417.
The photo of the bald eagle is public domain artwork from a National Park Service website.