FREE
SUMMER 2021
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A TETON VALLEY NEWS PRODUCTION
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when experience counts
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Teton Valley News
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Table of Contents 06 08
Editor’s Note Bear Basics
You’re In Bear Country Now
10
Fun And Fellowship Among Horsefolk The Fins
11
The Gem State’s Not-So-Hidden Sport Climbing Gem
13 18 22 24
Events Calendar Harvest In The North Country The Friendly Dragons A Route And A Ride
Developing the Wydaho One Hundred
28
Growing Pains
Infrastructure, Public Lands and Housing Feel the Crunch in Teton Valley’s Economic and Population Boom
32
From Local Pens
Great Kids’ Reads by Teton-Area Writers
34 36 39
A Backyard Dirt Bike Haven Area Maps Casting Kids
Fly Fishing Not Just for Adults
COVER: A hiker takes in the view of the Teton interior, on a rock outcropping accessed from the western side of the range. (Justin Smith) 4|
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Teton Valley News
TETON REGIONAL LAND TRUST
4TH ANNUAL GREATER YELLOWSTONE
CRANE FESTIVAL September 13-18 • Teton Valley, Idaho Crane Tours - Workshops - Art Show
Community Celebration September 18th at the Driggs City Center Plaza 11am to 5pm
For more information on the week’s activities go to:
www.tetonlandtrust.org
Come stay overnight in Teton Valley! NEWS SIN
1909
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Contributors Natalie Behring is a freelance photojournalist and aspiring writer based in Victor. An Idaho native, she returned to the area recently after decades of reporting in Asia, the Middle East and Africa, when it became apparent that rural America is desperately under reported. She lives near Moose Creek with her dog.
EDITOR’S NOTE
Julie Ellison is a writer, photographer, and filmmaker who lives in Victor with her partner Scotty and their dog Lizzie. With a genuine documentary style, she tells stories about her favorite subjects: the outdoors, bold women, travel, climbing, the American West, and anything that’s awesome. Find more of her work on Instagram (@joolyhart) or her website (julieellison. com). Aaron Couch is a human-powered wanderer and wildlife Advocate who is inspirted by adventure.
Justin Smith is a photographer, traveler, and man of few words.
W
hen we were trying to decide what the theme of this issue would be, the most obvious answer was right in the title: Get out! Get outside in Teton Valley, get out of Teton Valley. After the last year of nervous news-reading, careful grocery-shopping, awkward patio hang-outs, and disappointed trip-cancelling, I have a pretty ferocious case of cabin fever, and I bet I’m not the only one. To alleviate some of that cabin fever, we have to get out. For us, that can mean anything from dirt bik-ing in the Big Holes or horse packing in the Jedediah Smith Wilderness, or just standing outside with a cup of coffee early in the morning to see the hot air balloons soar overhead. It can mean finding new joy in fly-fishing by teaching the kiddos, or traveling the obscure back roads of the valley by bike, or watching the harvesters out in the potato fields north of Tetonia, or even exploring a little further afield and taking a quick climbing trip to the Fins. But even as we all seek to get out, a lot of people are setting their sights on this community as the place they want to settle or invest in or recreate in, and that’s causing a crunch on local resources as governments, nonprofits, and public agencies try to adjust to the increased pressure. For now though, we can focus on a summer that’s going to look relatively...normal? Not only is Teton Valley (and everything within a three-hour radius) a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s also home to one impressive summer event calendar. You had better believe people will be out in full force at all the happenings, shindigs, and festivals this summer. We can’t wait. Julia Tellman Editor
Virginia Powell Symons moved to the Tetons for a single season in 2001. A husband, two businesses, a child, and a home later it’s pretty clear that she’s not going anywhere. In 2009 Virginia founded Vibrant Events of Jackson Hole, a boutique event planning company committed to creativity, sustainability, and making the very best of life’s opportunities. She loves sunsets in wild places, vintage campers, sand between her toes, and Newfoundland dogs (not necessarily in that order).
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Melissa Thomasma is a Teton area native who has been writing about all things West for nearly a decade now. When she’s not scribbling away or tinkering with words, you can find her hiking, camping, in the kitchen, on the river, or wrangling a husband, two spunky kids, a couple dogs, and too many cats.
Teton Valley News
A I LY D D E V SER
SUMMER IN THE TETONS ENDLESS ADVENTURE + EPIC VIEWS
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Bear Basics
Spoiler Alert: You’re in Bear Country Now By Melissa Thomasma The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is a remarkably and distinctly wild place. Over 22 million acres of untamed mountains, rivers, and forests are home to some of the planet’s most astonishing
Stock photo GETOUT IN TETON VALLEY 2021
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species. Among the most fascinating — and potentially dangerous — are the region’s grizzly and black bears. Viewing a bear is a treat. It’s humbling to appreciate their strength, size, and ability to sniff out the juiciest thickets of huckleberries and most ant-infested rotten logs. The opportunity to marvel at a black or grizzly bear from a safe distance is thrilling to say the least. And it reinforces the fact that you do not want to have an unintended
or negative encounter with one of these bruins — not only could it leave you with an injury (or worse), but it could spell disaster for the bear, too. One of the simplest ways to avoid human-bear conflict is to ensure that when you’re out enjoying the wild spaces around the valley, you keep anything with a scent very well-secured. “Every summer in Teton Valley we have incidents where bears receive a food reward from campers or hikers who do not store their food properly,” says District Ranger Jay Pence. “This reward often emboldens the bear and it begins to seek out additional food rewards. This action forces state and federal agencies to close areas to human presence and we often have little choice but to remove the bear from the population.” Removal can mean relocation, but that doesn’t always work, Pence says. “In certain instances, we are able to relocate them to a new area, but those bears often get into additional trouble in their new location due to their past association between humans and food.” Pence also points out that food isn’t the only thing in your camping gear that can catch a bear’s super-powerful nose. “Lesser-known food attractants are a random watermelon rind or apple core tossed in the bushes, a bowl of dog food, medicine, vitamins, insect repellent, sunscreen, or similar items left at the campsite or in the back of a truck,” he says. Teton Valley News
FO R T H O S E W H O S H O OT FO R T H E M O O N
WELCOME HOME The wrong way. This photo, snapped by Jay Pence in Darby Canyon in 2020, is an example of improper food storage. It’s risky for people and for bears, too.
Be sure to keep anything with a scent secured inside a vehicle, hard-sided camper, or bear-proof container like a bear box. Alternatively, you can hang a bear bag from a tree away from your campsite, but be sure that it’s at the correct height and distance from the trunk. Ultimately, keeping a bear-safe camp is best for people as well as for the bears of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. n
Got Bear Spray?
A must-have when hiking, biking, fishing, or otherwise recreating in the wild spaces around the Tetons is bear spray. It’s proven to be the best resource to keep both people and bears alive in an unexpected encounter. Before you head out, make sure you: • Have bear spray (and that it’s not expired) • Carry it in an accessible spot (not buried in your pack) • Know exactly how to use it Also, take it from us — never leave your bear spray canister in a hot car. It will create an extremely unpleasant mess that will quickly give you an understanding of why it works so well on bears.
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N E W H O M E S S TA R T I N G FROM $2.25 MILLION T R I B U TA RY I DA H O.CO M · 307. 69 0.1 5 0 8 5 0 1 H U N TS M A N S P R I N GS D R. , D R I G GS, I D 83 422 J H E I L B RU N @ T R I B U TA RY I DA H O.CO M
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Fun and Fellowship Among Horsefolk By Michael Mulligan Horsewomen and horsemen of the Valley, including die-hard mule devotees, can now claim membership in a chapter of the national organization of the Back Country Horsemen. Founded in 1973, this group thrives in 32 states and is dedicated to perpetuating the commonsense use and enjoyment of horses in America’s backcountry and wilderness. BCH works to ensure that public lands remain open to recreational stock use and assists the agencies responsible for the management of public lands in meeting their goals. Members volunteer to clear and repair trails and to undertake projects such as building pathways and bridges to protect wetlands. Devoted to “leave no trace” principles, BCH and the Teton Valley chapter are committed to keeping our backcountry and wilderness lands wild. This past summer, in conjunction with the Forest Service, members of TVBCH restored parts of three different wilderness trails and linked arms and loppers with HAPI Trails to clear their riding trail. Experts also partnered with HAPI Trails to offer a day of instruction to members and the public on how to pack and camp with stock. Teton Valley is a historical strong10 |
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hold of Western horsemanship. In recent years, though, our Valley has experienced exceptional growth: an explosion of home construction and home rentals; the building of several golf courses; burgeoning interest in bicycling both on the roads and in the backcountry; the advent of electric bikes, as well as the long popular use of motorized two- and four-wheelers. It was not that long ago that the only company horse riders had in the back country was the occasional hiker or backpackers. Today, unless riding in the designated wilderness, equestrians must be ready to encounter any number of mechanized vehicles around a corner or a switch-back. Part of the work of BCH is to help train and educate both horseback riders and the public in general on the best approaches to basic safety. Increased awareness and good manners by all parties are essential to the sharing of these public lands. That said, thanks to all of you mechanized riders who will stop, slow down, or turn off engines as appropriate when you encounter horses. Much appreciated, needless to say. Not to be overlooked in any of this is that the Teton Valley BCH offers the chance for horse lovers to meet other equestrians, to attend
horsemanship and mule clinics, to find friends with whom to go horse packing and camping and head off on trail rides. In fact, rides of all kinds are part of the program: easy and gentle ones for the inexperienced--or simply those who prefer not to stare down precipitous cliffs on a switchback--or long distance, rugged, demanding, and deeply rewarding wilderness adventures for those horses, mules, and riders who are willing and able. In any case, good horsemanship, safety, and the “leave no trace” ethic always come first. If you are an equestrian, or want to be, and if you enjoy the good company of other great folks who want to keep our backcountry wild, this is an organization for you. Check out our Facebook page (“Teton Valley Back Country Horsemen”) and go online and read about the history and programs of the Back Country Horsemen of America. Please join up. Contact our Treasurer, Dennis Craig (mrddc@hotmail.com) for the details. Happy trails to all! Michael Mulligan is the president and co-founder of the Teton Valley Back Country Horsemen. He lives in Alta. n Teton Valley News
The Fins
The Gem State’s Not-so-Hidden Sport Climbing Gem By Julie Ellison
Teton Valley is a dream destination for all types of outdoor adventure: skiing, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, paddling, trail running, mountaineering. You name it, the Tetons has it in droves. The only group who might be found wanting are rock climbers—those poor souls like myself who love the lifestyle Teton Valley provides but feel thwarted by the area’s minimal amount of single-pitch climbing. (Not to mention the
laughably short climbing season, a brief window of perfect weather that lasts about two months before winter takes over again. But that’s a different story altogether…) While small cliffs in Teton and Hoback canyons keep Teton Valley climbers satiated, none of these areas qualify as true climbing destinations. The local crags (what climbers call a climbing area) are merely there to entertain us and keep our fingers strong for bigger trips to climbing meccas like Moab, Utah, and Bishop, California. However, area climbJulie Ellison
WELCOME HOME JULY 2–AUGUST 21 M U SIC D IR EC TO R SIR D O N AL D R U N N IC L E S
“The setting is everything at this event, but with Donald Runnicles in charge, musical quality is assured.”
JAC KSO N H O L E , W YO M IN G
D E TA I L S & T I C K E TS
THE NEW YORK TIMES
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ers will find a saving grace in the Fins, a world-class crag that’s become a not-so-hidden gem of the Gem State. The aptly named crag is comprised of vertical limestone panels that jut out of the sage-covered peaks of the southern tip of the Lost River Range. Located between Howe and Arco, these striking shields of rock offer a remarkable contrast to the more subtle, rolling landscape of nearby Howe and Jumpoff peaks and the surrounding valley. The 2.5-hour drive from Teton Valley oscillates between barren desert, pastures, farm fields, and small towns with names like Mud Lake and Sugar City. The pastoral drive is peaceful until you start seeing signs from the Idaho National Laboratory that say something along the lines of “Do Not Enter Under Penalty of Death and Dismemberment.” Anyone unlucky enough to have made a wrong turn in this area will be greeted by INL’s version of a SWAT team, which seems like an appropriate response for a federal nuclear research facility that was established in the early years of the Cold War. After turning off the highway onto a gravel road, you can’t see the cliffs right away, so visiting climbers might wonder what the heck they’re doing in this vast and arid desert. But just a few miles up the road, the stunning rock faces created by vertical strata appear, with alternating streaks of blue, white, and orange. Timid drivers or low-clearance vehicles must park low and hike up the shadeless trail, but bolder navigators with four-wheel-drive might brave the infamous last mile up to the base of the cliff. This forest service road is maintained by INL
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for access to communication towers, but it remains very steep and very loose. Most climbers who have been coming to the Fins for a few years have at least one story about busting a hole in their Subaru’s oil pan or rolling their old Tacoma off the road on the descent. (He was fine.) Even the most careful drivers must keep an eye on their temperature gauge as they creep up the road in 4-low and 95°. Both the approach by foot and by vehicle involve plenty of sweating, but once you’ve reached the cliff, you’re rewarded with blissful shade and a few hundred routes. The east-facing rock has shade starting at about 1 p.m., offering a nice respite from the summer heat of central Idaho. The Fins has routes for climbers of all ability levels, from a beginner’s 5.6 to expert-level 5.14d. Routes are characterized by edges and pockets that create interesting and fun movement sequences. The angle of the rock hovers around vertical, some of it just under and some of it just over, without any prominent rock features like roofs or corners. The difficulty of the climbing increases through smaller hold sizes and farther reaches between those holds, as well as how sustained the hard climbing is. Up until the last decade, the Fins has remained relatively quiet and unknown. The first routes were established by Chuck Denure in the early to mid-1990s, followed by Marc Hanselman and Alex McMeekin who put up dozens more in 1998. Local route developers, including Tom Smartt, Matt TeNgaio, and guidebook author Dave Bingham, continued to add lines in the 5.11 to 5.13 range throughout the 2000s. Pro climber Jonathan Siegrist first visited the area in 2010, and as someone known for his incredible finger strength and technical movement prowess, the climbing style at Fins was right up his alley. He returned in 2012 with a drill and added a catalogue of 5.13s and 5.14s, including one of the hardest routes in the country: Algorithm (5.14d). With the addition of hard routes and the subsequent press surrounding them, sport climbers from all over the country started flocking to the Fins. In late 2018, an image of Paige Claassen on Algorithm appeared on the cover of Climbing magazine, ushering in a period of peak popularity. Visit anytime during the spring, summer, or fall, and you’re likely to come across road-tripping climbers, Salt Lake City weekend warriors, and Teton Valley locals. Like many climbing areas across the country, the increased traffic has created overuse issues in the Fins. With no toilet facilities and limited parking and camping space, the problem of human waste tops the list, as well as trampling of brush, erosion, and maintaining trails. All climbers who enjoy the amazing limestone sport routes of the Fins— both locals and visitors alike—should practice Leave No Trace principles and strive to leave the area better than they found it. Access is precarious and hinges on all of us doing our part to respect the environment and treat one of Idaho’s only climbing destinations as the sacred, wonderful place that it is. n Teton Valley News
Events Calendar
Justin Smith
All events are subject to change due to COVID-19. Event organizers will follow current federal, state, and local public health guidelines. May 21-July 17: On the Wings of a Song: A Multi-Media Art Exhibit Artists Mary Lou Oslund and Sydney Smith will have a two-month exhibit at the Teton Arts Gallery in the Driggs City Center (60 South Main Street) from May 21 to July 17. Visit the gallery and enjoy photography, fused glass, fabric arts, woodcuts, paintings and collaborations. The opening reception will be May 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. with Covid protocols in place. The exhibit is made possible through sponsorship by Teton Arts, Idaho Commission on the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information go to www.driggspleinairgallery.com. All Summer: Teton Geo Center The Geo Center is OPEN! Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. next to the Driggs City Center (60 South Main Street). We’ll be happy to suggest swell places for you to hike, climb, explore the Teton River, or visit some of our “town treasures” like the distillery and the Museum. We’ll also be happy to give you ideas for great places to eat. While you’re in the Geo, please enjoy our videos and permanent exhibits. Don’t forget to pop into our Idea Gallery’s newest rotating exhibit, “Find Your Light”, featuring the amazing photography of local Mark Reynolds and classic glass pieces created here in Driggs by Ralph and Mary Mossman of Heron Glass. This exhibit will be up ‘til the Teton Regional Land Trust’s annual Crane Festival in September when another wonderful tetonvalleynews.net
exhibit depicting many aspects of our iconic sandhill cranes shall take its place. Don’t be surprised if you find an eager group of school kids working on a project or participating in a scavenger hunt while you’re there, too. Yes, the Geo rewards the curious! May 29: Teton Arts Grand Reopening Join us for a fun-filled day on Saturday, May 29 to celebrate creativity and community! Valley-wide scavenger hunt, third annual mug and pottery sale, free family crafts, food and bevvies, a stupendous raffle, and all proceeds go to our scholarship fund, keeping art accessible and affordable so everyone can create in Teton Valley. All activities are free to the public! Adult pottery classes will be ongoing all summer, as well as private lessons and birthday parties. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Teton Arts Building, Driggs June 1: 14th Annual Tin Cup Challenge Giving Period Opens Participate in one of the most innovative charitable fundraisers in the nation by donating during the 8-week Giving Period of the Tin Cup Challenge! Be part of the success that raised $1,766,670 from 1,234 donors last year. Since 2008, this event has raised over $16 million, directly benefitting Teton Valley’s cherished nonprofits, working tirelessly to enhance our quality of life. www. TinCupChallenge.org
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June 1-July 15: Tin Cup Photo Challenge Submit your nonprofit impact photos — images that reflect Tin Cup funds at work in our community in each of the seven sectors: Animal Rescue, Arts & Culture, Civic & Service, Conservation & Environment, Education, Health & Human Services, and Sports & Recreation. Each sector winner will receive $100 Nonprofit Bucks to be designated to the nonprofit of their choice. Winners will be announced at the Driggs City Park on Tin Cup Event Day. Accept Photos: June 1 at 9 a.m. Acceptance Deadline: June 30 at 5 p.m. Contest Begins: July 1 at 9 a.m. Contest Ends: July 15 at 5 p.m. June 4-October 1: Teton Valley Farmers Market Once again, TVFM has a delectable line-up of vendors to provide you with local meats, eggs, cheeses, breads including gluten-free, fresh seasonal produce including microgreens, cut flowers and plant starts, fresh fruits, mushrooms, garlic, mead, honey, hard apple cider, spicy sauces, jams, jellies, and home-made sweets and snacks. Seniors West of the Tetons will have breakfast burritos (to-go only), and Juanita and Andrea will have their best-ever tamales and homemade sauces. We welcome back Alpine Air with their fine locally-roasted brews and Jackpine Lavender with their locallygrown and produced “aroma-therapy” lavender products - sachets, oils, bunches, and more. Welcome back, Alex and Annie! This year, we’ve been able to add a few new vendors who will offer Alaskan King salmon and smoked fish, more locally-grown organic produce, Idaho-grown apples and apple products, and sourdough baked goods including croissants. Every Friday from June 4 through October 1 at Driggs City Plaza, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. June 7- August 20: Teton Arts Summer Camp We are thrilled to offer our award-winning summer camp again this year! Kids get to explore their creativity through a variety of artistic mediums, play outside and explore our gardens while their imaginations soar! Camp runs from June 7 - August 20 from 9-3 Monday through Friday, with extended care available from 8-4:30. As always, we have scholarships available for all our programs to ensure that our programs are always affordable and accessible for everyone in Teton Valley. Visit our studio at 110 Rodeo Drive in Driggs or visit our website at tetonarts.org to learn more or enroll in classes or camp! June 17-August 12: Music on Main Boasting the best FREE all-ages outdoor summer concert series in the Yellowstone region, our summer music lineups continue the tradition of bringing highly talented musicians of diverse genres to Teton Valley. Music on Main has hosted some of the nation’s best bands from James McMurtry, to the Young Dubliners, to MarchFourth Marching Band, Reckless Kelly, the Motet, and more. Music on Main is brought to you by the Teton Valley Foundation. Victor City Park, Every Thursday, 6-10 p.m. from June 17 to August 12, excluding July 1
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Teton Valley News
unique Independence Day celebration and this year is celebrating its 40th anniversary. The Teton Valley Balloon Rally is committed to keeping the magic of ballooning alive and is excited to host 25 colorful aircraft in honor of this year’s milestone. This traditional event features four mornings of group hot air balloon launches from the Teton County Fairgrounds in Driggs over July 1-4. The TVBR organization provides ongoing program opportunities for elementary schools and provides a scholarship to a Balloon Federation of America Junior Balloonist Summer Camp to a deserving middle or high school student each year. To learn more, donate, or volunteer visit www. tetonvalleyballoonrally.org Linda Swope
June 18-August 13: Teton Valley Rodeo When visiting the West – or even if you live here – catching a summer rodeo is a must-do, and there’s no better place to embrace your inner cowboy or cowgirl than at the Teton Valley Rodeo. Conveniently situated in close proximity to Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Park, the Teton Valley Rodeo makes for an ideal stop on the travel itinerary. The whole family can get up-close-and-personal with the rodeo action, all while drinking in the majestic scenery of the breathtaking peaks of the Tetons, bathed in the rays of a pink, summer sunset. There’s something for everyone at the Teton Valley Rodeo: food, fun, and entertainment for the whole family. You won’t find a more authentic western experience than this. It’s plain, good, old-fashioned fun, laid-back, and value-packed! Git your tickets, sit back, relax, and let’s rodeo! Teton County Fairgrounds, every Friday night at 8 p.m. from June 18 through August 13, and don’t miss our Independence Day Rodeo on July 3 June 25-September 10: Artisans at Mugler In partnership with Teton Valley Farmers Market, the Downtown Driggs Association presents “Artisans at Mugler”, every Friday from June 25 through September 10 from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00p.m. at Mugler Plaza on Main Street in Driggs. Ten booths each week will feature rotating local and regional artisans selling a wide variety of original woven and knitted clothing, paintings, prints, photography, jewelry, sculpture, ceramics and more. Sandwiches and lunch items by local food purveyor Ron’s Smokehouse for sale. See details at http://www. downtowndriggs.org/ June 26: UN-Wrun for Wray Targhee Hill Climb Raffle The 2021 Wrun has been canceled, but this year you can participate even if you aren’t a runner! The race for raffle tickets will begin on Wrun day, Saturday June 26. All proceeds support the Wray Landon Legacy Fund at Teton Regional Land Trust. Go to www.tetonlandtrust.org for more details on this amazing raffle. July 1-4: Teton Valley Balloon Rally The Teton Valley Balloon Rally is Teton County Idaho’s tetonvalleynews.net
July 2-3: City of Victor Craft Fair The City of Victor will hold a craft fair on July 2 and 3 in the Victor City Park on Main Street. Visit victorcityidaho. com for more information. July 3: City of Victor 4th of July Festival Every year, the City of Victor hosts the annual 4th of July celebration in conjunction with local non-profit groups. Join us on Saturday, July 3 in downtown Victor for the Backstreet Mile running race, flag ceremony, community breakfast, parade, library book sale, and live music at the Victor City Park after the parade. For a complete schedule of events visit victorcityidaho.com. July 4-August 14: Downtown Sounds The Downtown Driggs Association presents this series of FREE outdoor contemporary music concerts by local bands. Bring a chair or blanket to enjoy music in this beautiful setting at the Driggs City Plaza. Beer, wine and food for sale. Rain location: Driggs City Center July 4th - 6:30-9:45 p.m. - George Kilby Jr. and the Road Dogs July 25 - 4:30-7:30 p.m. - Jack & Kia August 14 - 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. - Calle Mambo July 4: Driggs 4th of July Fireworks Driggs will be hosting its annual fireworks show on Sunday, July 4th starting at approximately 10:15 p.m. The launch site is east of the Driggs Elementary School on LeGrand Pierre Avenue. July 10: Tetonia Celebrates America Craft fair, parade, fun run, live music, Western Show Down, and the annual Dutch Oven Cook-Off! Want to run a summer 5k? Have some crafts to sell or buy? Love showing off your Dutch oven cooking skills? Want to sit back, listen to music and then eat some amazing food? Then this is the event for you! Visit with friends and family while enjoying the outside. More information available through the City of Tetonia, (208) 456-2249. Prizes will be awarded to contestants in the cook-off. A complete set of rules will be given at time of registration. Ruby Carson Memorial Park, Saturday, July 10 July 17: 14th Annual Tin Cup Challenge Event Day The Community Foundation of Teton Valley annually hosts Tin Cup Event Day on the third Saturday of July. Join us in celebrating Teton Valley’s hard-working GETOUT IN TETON VALLEY 2021
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nonprofits and our community’s generous annual giving during the 14th Annual Tin Cup Challenge. Register to run in our competitive 5k, 10K, or Fun Run/Walk, learn more about local nonprofits at informational booths with family-friendly activities, and enjoy seeing your caring community in action! cftetonvalley.org/tin-cupchallenge-event-day/ Driggs City Park, Saturday, July 17 at 9 a.m. – noon July 20: Shakespeare in the Parks “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare - The Downtown Driggs Association hosts this FREE professional theater performance outdoors at the Driggs City Plaza on Tuesday, July 20 from 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on the lawn. Beer, wine and food for sale. Rain location: Teton High School. Presented by “Montana Shakespeare in the Parks”, a nationally recognized outreach program of the College of Arts and Architecture at Montana State University. July 23: 14th Annual Tin Cup Challenge Giving Period Closes Friday, July 23 is the last day to donate to one of the most innovative charitable fundraisers in the nation, the Tin Cup Challenge! Be part of the success that raised $1,766,670 from 1,234 donors last year. Since 2008, this event has raised over $16 million, directly benefitting Teton Valley’s cherished nonprofits, working tirelessly to enhance our quality of life. Support your community, give today!
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Jackson Adams
July 25-July 31: 10th Annual Driggs Plein Air Festival The Downtown Driggs Association presents the 10th Annual Driggs Plein Air Festival the last week of July. 70 professional and emerging artists from all over the country set up their easels outdoors to paint the scenery in Driggs and Teton Valley. Hundreds of paintings of local scenes are featured for sale at the Driggs Plaza and Teton Arts Gallery throughout the week. The public is invited to all activities. The week kicks off on Sunday, July 25th with the Opening Exhibition Reception at 6:30 p.m. on the
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Driggs Plaza at 60 South Main Street, following the free Downtown Sounds concert. July 25 - Sept 12- Driggs Plein Air Exhibition & Sale at the Gallery and Online July 26 July 31- Art Sales, Quick Draws, Paint Outs, Competition Awards Ceremony. See details at www.downtowndriggs. org. July 30-August 7: Teton Valley Fair The Teton Valley Fair is a celebration of our county’s 4H youth, Western heritage and rural traditions. Visit www. tetoncountyfairgrounds.com for a complete event schedule. August 25: 14th Annual Tin Cup Challenge Awards Ceremony The 14th Annual Tin Cup Challenge Awards Ceremony celebrates participating nonprofits, supporters, and a successful season of fundraising. Business & Community Challengers and participating nonprofits are invited to the Awards Ceremony to celebrate the annual success of this fundraising feat. Nonprofits are required to have one representative in attendance to collect their Grant Award check and may extend invitations to staff and board members alike. Moose Creek Ranch, Wednesday, August 25, 6 - 8 p.m. September 11: In A Landscape: Classical Music in the Wild Classical pianist Hunter Noack will play his 9-foot Steinway grand piano on a beautiful Teton Valley conserved property connecting people to the landscape while listening to the music through wireless headphones. Property tours will be available on limited basis before the concert begins. We will have a silent auction and Plein Air artists painting on site, their work will be in a live auction at the end of the program. Tickets are $35 and you are welcome to bring your own picnic basket and beverages. Go to our website: www.tetonlandtrust. org for the link to purchase tickets and to sign up for a conservation tour. Saturday, September 11 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Fox Creek Ranch in Victor September 13-18: 4th Annual Greater Yellowstone Crane Festival The Greater Yellowstone Crane Festival is held by the Teton Regional Land Trust to celebrate the migration of Sandhill Cranes through Teton Valley. The weeklong festival will include workshops for photography, drawing, plein air painting, poetry, and youth dance. Also featured is the Teton Arts’ Crane Art Show with the artist’s reception on Friday, September 17. Keep checking our website: www.tetonlandtrust.org for more details and to sign up for workshops. September 18: Greater Yellowstone Crane Festival Community Celebration Saturday, September 18 • 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. A fun day for the whole family! Activities will include a nature themed arts & crafts tent, educational booths about Greater Yellowstone ecology and wildlife, entertainment, poetry readings, crane inspired dances, and artisans. Saturday, September 18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Driggs City Center Plaza tetonvalleynews.net
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Harvest in the North Country u
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Words and Photos by Natalie Behring Veteran farmer Eric Arnold generously took me on a tour to see his seed potato harvesting operation a while back. He started farming with his father Dennie in the early 90s and told me, “All I ever wanted to do was farm.“ The National Potato Council estimates that Americans eat an average of 34 pounds of potatoes annually. I was curious whether Eric was eating his fair share. He replied that he “looks at potatoes 300 days a year,” but neglected to mention whether that was on a plate. Jesus (Chuy ) Olivas, Arnold’s foreman, who is considered a member of the farm family, oversees the team of diggers that trawl back and forth along the dried up rows of vines. He’s been working for the family since he was 13, more than 45 years ago. Olivas manages a fleet of workers, truck drivers, digger operators, and cellar help that annually harvest about 1,300 acres of seed potatoes.
On a September day in Felt an army of diggers and potato combines lined up along a field with miles of rows of harvest-ready potatoes as a pink sky outlined snow specked mountains in the distance. A seasoned team of experts was dispatched for every phase of the process, the diggers and combines, the Rube Goldberg-like tangle of conveyor belts that sorted the freshly dug up spuds into cavernous arched cellars that say “Potatoes” in large red letters on the outside.
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The season starts with sorting in the early spring. In a laborious process, the potatoes are placed on a complicated web of conveyor belts. Watchful workers scrutinize little rivers of potatoes flowing past them, their deft hands darting out to remove the rotten, unneeded bits.
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The potato combines fill up trucks with the name “Spudnik” emblazoned on the side, an unexpected nod to mid-century Soviet invention. Clouds of dust can be seen from far away, signaling another load will be arriving to the gaping mouth of the cellar. The cargo is cleaned and the dirt, rocks and tare are removed. The potatoes go into a cellar for the winter, only to be sorted again in the spring, when the potatoes that didn’t make it intact through the winter.
After the ground is prepared into low fat rows of dirt, usually in early May, when there is little threat of freezing, the seed potatoes are planted. Up to ten potatoes grow like a hydra from a single seed. During growing season the once-brown fields are endlessly green, with irrigation sprinklers tracing out loops across the well-ordered rows. Soon harvest will begin again.
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Local news matters. This magazine was produced by the staff of the Teton Valley News, serving our community since 1909. Visit our website to subscribe today. tetonvalleynews.net
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Dragons The Friendly
By Virginia Powell Symons
My 4-year-old son rubbed his eyes and yawned inside our camper. It was 6am on July 5, and I had been up for over two hours. By that time, I’d had a cup of coffee (or three) and was starting to feel the magic brewing out on the field. The little blurry-eyed face and rumpled head of hair appeared in the doorway. “Mom, I hear the dragons waking up!” I smiled and walked over, letting him jump off the camper step onto my back. I heard them too – that roar of propane meeting spark, throwing hot air skywards, warming the burners, preparing for flight. I grabbed him a muffin, thanked the volunteer who remained to man the booth, and we took off for a walk in the dawn – dodging the growing crowds, around the trucks and trailers, through the billowing, brightly-colored nylon that danced on the field. The friendly dragons had awoken, pulling at their bridles, yearning for the sky. But let’s back up a little bit. In the Beginning In 1981 Teton Valley, Idaho looked a little different than it does today – more of a sleepy agricultural valley than a tourist destination. Local pilot Fred Reed had just attended the 10th annual International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico and he came home with an idea. Teton Valley, with its magnifi22 |
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cent mountain backdrop, expansive fields, gentle winds, and proximity to the popular tourist destination of Jackson Hole, Wyoming checked all the boxes to host a hot air balloon race. Plus, the economic benefit of pilots, crew, and spectators traveling to the valley had significant merits. Although most Teton Valley residents didn’t have the foggiest idea what Reed was talking about when he first brought up the idea of a hot air balloon event in the valley, he pushed forward. The First Annual Grand Teton Father’s Day Balloon Race and Glider Regatta was held June 19-20, 1982, bringing eight brightly colored hot air balloons and several hundred people to the valley – the Teton Valley Balloon Rally was born. Driggs Chamber of Commerce President Debbie Hunter joined Reed’s efforts in 1983. Winds up to 20 knots grounded balloons on the first scheduled day of flights, but on the following day nine balloons took to the Teton Valley skies. Astronaut Jim Irwin, brother of Alta resident Charles Irwin, signed autographs and recounted his experience landing on the moon with Apollo 15. Energy for the Rally was building, but most residents still thought that it would take years to build a reputation that could draw crowds. Then Ira Koplow took over in 1984. Ira had a vision, and an infectious energy – he leveraged connec-
tions, pounded the pavement, and created a buzz. The Third Annual Teton Valley Father’s Day Balloon Festival hosted 17 balloons and approximately 1,000 visitors, creating a bustle for local businesses and making it clear that the balloons were here to stay. Hot Air Balloon Heyday In 1984, with Ira at the helm, the Teton Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival soared – the event was moved to July 4th weekend and B&F Distributing, August Busch’s Budweiser company out of Idaho Falls, jumped on board as an impactful title sponsor. In 1985 attendance quintupled and 20 balloons filled the skies. The local economy boomed. When Chris Nelson, President of the Teton Valley Businessmen’s Association said “What Ira has done most people can’t even fathom yet,” he had no idea just how true that statement really was. The festival’s success continued to skyrocket. Teton Valley was gaining a reputation as a balloonist’s destination and tourist traffic steadily increased. In 1990 the Teton Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival was named one of Idaho’s Top 20 Centennial Events by the Idaho Centennial Commission. The festival enjoyed perfect weather, massive crowds and a record number of balloons took to the skies, including several special shapes. The Budweiser Clydesdales wowed crowds in Teton Valley News
the Balloonist’s 4th of July parade in Victor, Idaho. In just eight years Teton Valley had evolved, led by Ira’s vision and brought to new heights by the newfound magic of hot air balloons. From Then… While ballooning conditions in Teton Valley in July are often picture perfect, nothing is absolute. In the early 1990s three years of temperamental weather, including 13 inches of snow on July 4 in 1992, brought the Balloon Festival to its knees. During these same years the Chambers of Commerce of the three Teton Valley cities—Victor, Driggs, and Tetonia—formed a single Teton Valley Chamber of Commerce which took over production of the event. The newly-formed Chamber discontinued Budweiser’s sponsorship, and experimented with a variety of different approaches to make up for the financial loss. After years of checkered successes and failures, paired with the continued growth of tourism in Teton Valley, the Board of Directors of the Teton Valley Chamber of Commerce voted to discontinue the Teton Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival in February of 2012, the year after the 30th annual event. …To Now I was taking minutes at that meeting. Although I had seen the writing on the wall, the vote made my gut sink. The next day I called Tom Gough, a pilot who had been flying in Teton Valley since the early days and had meistered the event in recent years (a balloon meister is the pilot in charge of weather decisions and pilot safety at a hot air balloon rally). Tom laughed. “There might not be a rally,” he told me, “but nothing will keep me from flying in Teton Valley on July 4th. I’ll be there.” The next week I met local pilot Margaret Breffeilh for coffee. We sat for hours, figuring out how we would manage the field rental, the insurance needs, the crowd management. When we finally parted that day, we had a plan. With the help of the Chamber’s bookkeeper Candy Davis, we formed an LLP, reached out to pilots, rented the fairgrounds, and found an insurance company that was willing to take a chance. With the financial backing of the cities of Victor and Driggs, Corner Drug, and Anthony Owens at Suburban Propane, 6 hot air balloons launched into the 2012 Independence Day skies. That was the day I met the dragons. See DRAGONS, page 38 tetonvalleynews.net
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A Route and a Ride Developing the Wydaho One Hundred
Words and Photos by Aaron Couch The Wydaho One Hundred is a 100-mile or 100-kilometer gravel bike ride organized by Aaron Couch and Fitzgerald’s Bicycles. This year’s event is happening on Saturday, July 10. The Wydaho One Hundred didn’t start as an event or even a published route. After a mid-fall bikepacking trip on the Jackpine-Pinochle road, I decided to ride back to Victor taking the long, scenic way through the farmland of Felt on double-track county “roads,” up through Packsaddle Canyon and around the backroads of Victor. That’s when the idea of connecting it all and making one big gravel loop was born. DESIGNING THE ROUTE I began plotting the route, circumnavigating Teton Valley to connect its many gravel, dirt, and rugged roads together. I used Ride With GPS to plot the route and the Teton County GIS to check land ownership and property lines, among several other maps to cross-reference data. From Victor, it heads north up the frontage road and zig-zags towards Stateline at Darby Canyon. It continues up Stateline to the Tetonia backroads, then heads west to Badger Creek and up Rammel Mountain Road. The rutted and steep climb up Rammel is no joke and provides the first continuous ascent of the ride. From there it connects to the scenic Jackpine-Pinochle loop, offering full views of the Teton Range, Jedediah Smith Wilderness, and meadows full of wildflowers. Dropping back down a steady, low angle descent along the ridge, views of 24 |
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the valley floor, Big Hole Mountains, and Snake River Plains appear in and out of view through gaps in the trees and bends in the road. Back in the rolling hills of Felt, the route heads on double-track through an environmental easement, along the old railroad bed, and climbs west up into more fields, more rutted doubletrack. Conditions of the dirt may vary from hardpack to a muddy irrigated mess as roads traverse along the rim and down to the Teton River. After a westward jaunt, gravel roads are linked up going south in the northern foothills of the Big Hole Mountains and into Horseshoe-Packsaddle Canyon. As roads curve and meander, eastern views of the Teton Range one just traveled from open up. The tiny and yet vast valley below puts it all into
perspective -- where one came from and where one must go. Attention is quickly brought back to the rutted and rocky road of Packsaddle canyon, conflicting between beauty and wanting to stop to see it all and the rush of the fast descent after miles and miles of exposed climbing. Rounding the bend into Horseshoe Canyon, the pavement and cruiser descent is an appreciated break before dropping back into the valley. Once leaving the canyon, the route heads south, meandering the foothills and gravel backroads up against the Big Holes and continues south of Victor towards Pine Creek Pass and the Snake River Range. Taylor Mountain looms in the distance through the aspens. A hop, skip and a jump across Highway 31 and through a small deTeton Valley News
velopment pops out onto W 10000 S. A rutted descent quickly snaps the gaze back to reality to prepare for the final push back to town. One zig, then a zag - a quick veer onto the paralleling doubletrack along the pavement makes for “bonus points.” Check the surroundings, make a left towards the highway through the tunnel - hammer the gravel Baseline road - watch those stop signs. Riding in town and trying to be aware of everything to the left, right, in front and behind is just as invigorating as being up in the mountains at times. Back at Fitzgerald’s Bicycles! And that’s the 100-mile loop. CREATING THE EVENT I reconned the route with a friend to make sure it all went together. After that experience, I became inspired to share the route with others. I offered up the idea to some in the shop. We played around with some names and I
eventually settled on the Wydaho One Hundred. We set up one drop bag and water zone at Harrops Bridge, providing a handful of tools, some water, and any drop bags the riders wanted to have. Each rider was responsible for himself or herself. This wasn’t a full-supported, completely marked course. Actually, it’s the opposite and as grassroots, as it gets. The route file is perfect - rely on that. Each participant is encouraged to study and know the route - a great opportunity to hone some backcountry and navigating skills in a fairly controlled environment. Essentially, this “event” is just a bunch of people all setting out to ride the same course on the same day. And while we do throw a few prizes and swag to those who stick around at the end, there isn’t a podium or really an awards ceremony - how about hot delicious food, an ice-cold beverage, and a high five instead?! Everything went smoothly that July day in 2018.
Smooth enough to warrant another event of the same route in 2019 where we added a second water/drop bag zone, and smooth enough to design a second route option -- the Wydaho One Hundred 100K... and then 2020 hit. NAVIGATING A PANDEMIC Knowing what to do and how to do it safely and efficiently was a challenge when coordinating events. All in all, we already had the infrastructure for a socially-distanced ride. We didn’t huddle under canopied aid stations. We didn’t give rides. We didn’t provide food. It was a challenge. But after a lot of mindful considerations, we opted to continue the ride. TYING IN THE COMMUNITY Yes, creating an event to inspire people to ride their bikes through their backyard is community -- but how about more! So we introduced a
Photo Credit: Aaron Couch
2021 Event List: June 3 - Block Party with TREC - Victor, ID June 5 - The Angry Horse Gravel Ride - Bone, ID June 19 - Around The Rock Gravel Ride - Victor, ID July 10 - Wydaho One Hundred Gravel Ride - Victor, ID July 16 - Caribou Loop Trail Bikepacking Ride - Alpine, WY August 13 - Fitz-Barn Bikepacking Ride - Hamilton, MT/Victor, ID September 11 - Pioneer 400 Bikepacking Ride - Idaho Falls, ID November 13 - Sand Dunes Winter Kick-off Party - Saint Anthony, ID December TBD - Global Fat Bike Day - Victor, ID Check our Instagram and Facebook for updates on events and happenings!
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suggested donation. That donation got you a Wydaho One Hundred neck gaiter and an entry into the raffle. A raffle to win a gravel bike from Salsa Cycles! We also pulled in several other great prizes from both our supporting brands and local businesses in the valley. The money goes to a selected nonprofit such as Teton Valley Trails and Pathways or Mountain Bike the Tetons for specific projects. WHAT TO EXPECT FOR 2021 This year all donations are going to Mountain Bike the Tetons. And while there is no bike to raffle off due to high demand and low production, we are pulling in some sweet prizes! The route will also slightly change due to some road construction. All in all, I expect to have the best Wydaho One Hundred yet. Every year I learn a little more from my past mistakes and “should haves.” It’s such an amazing opportunity to be on the outside, watching these people find roads that they didn’t know existed in the ten, fifteen or twenty years they’ve lived here. It’s amazing to hear the stories - how they pushed through when they wanted to quit and how they made this their longest ride yet! Sure, riding a route and telling someone about it is great. But sharing it with hundreds of others makes me want to do it over and over. n Teton Valley News
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Growing Pains Infrastructure, Public Lands, and Housing Feel the Crunch in Teton Valley’s Economic and Population Boom By Julia Tellman Teton Valley, a relatively isolated community on the edge of eastern Idaho that also includes a sliver of Wyoming, was hit hard by the Great Recession and its effects lingered years longer than in most parts of the country. The community started its gradual recovery from the bust within the past five years, then saw a rapid acceleration of people and money flowing into the valley, an influx that was only exacerbated by COVID-19. According to the US Census Bureau, Teton County’s population plateaued during the recession (between 2010 and 2014) at around 10,300, but that number began to climb in 2015; in 2019 the county’s population was 12,100, and the 2020 census results will likely reveal further population growth. As the pandemic forced a shift to remote work, many people left urban centers to buy property and settle in rural communities, particularly places with recreation opportunities. “It’s a phenomenon that’s happening everywhere in the west,” said Teton County Commissioner Cindy Riegel, who has held office since 2014. “As a local government, Teton County is not really equipped to deal with the rapid pace of growth in a way that’s efficient and effective—it’s difficult to accommodate growth while maintaining what’s unique and special about this place.” 28 |
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Real Estate Local real estate agents have observed that the market of the past eight or so months has been the hottest they’ve ever seen in terms of sales. According to an end-of-year market report by Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty, between 2019 and 2020 the sales volume in Teton Valley grew by 93%, and the increase of units sold was 89%. Lower-priced properties have disappeared from the MLS and luxury homes and lots are moving at a pace unheard of in Teton Valley; sales of properties that cost a million or more increased by 189%. The average residential sales price in 2019
was $449,732. That rose nearly 25% in 2020, to over $580,000. While it’s good news for real estate agencies, developers, title companies, and homeowners who have seen a jump in their equity or have been able to sell their homes for significantly more than their purchase price, people hoping to become first-time homeowners are priced out, unable to compete with cash buyers who can react quickly to new listings and offer more than the asking price. “2021 will surely be an interesting year in real estate,” predicted Teton Valley Realty agent Tayson Rockefeller in a January blog post. “Most buildTeton Valley News
ers are booked out one to two years, and rising construction and material costs haven’t seemed to subside. If the majority of current construction is custom work for individual homeowners, inventory will likely remain low. Property owners that have been waiting in the wings may identify 2021 as the time to sell, if the inventory remains low.” Jonathan Schecter, a Jackson town councilor and economic analyst, recently wrote in a paper on the even more exclusive Jackson Hole real estate market and its impact on the region: “This past summer shone a light on how difficult things will become for our tourism industry if employers can’t find enough employees. But it’s not just tourism. Like the interconnected roots of an aspen grove, the matrix that binds the greater Tetons region together means that problems in one area will inevitably manifest themselves elsewhere.” Housing Many Teton Valley residents commute to Jackson because rent and home prices are lower here than over Teton Pass. However, the rental housing inventory, which has gradually dwindled as the valley climbed out of the economic doldrums of a decade ago, is at an all-time low, says Community Resource Center of Teton Valley executive director Betsy Hawkins. CRC is a nonprofit that connects people in need with the network of resources available in the county and region, and housing insecurity is one of the primary challenges encountered by CRC clients. The CRC provides rental assistance with its Quality of Life fund and tries to help prospective tenants find housing. While that financial aid can keep people from losing their homes, if a family or individual is searching for housing, rental assistance doesn’t tetonvalleynews.net
always help, Hawkins said. “With not much housing available, you better have the money in hand right that second or you’re not getting the lease.” Riegel agreed. “I’m most concerned about locals getting pushed out by second homeowners, or losing their homes to vacation rentals. There’s a lot of shifting in housing going on right now and it feels like so many people we know are having to leave the valley as a result.” The Teton County Joint Housing Authority, established in 2019, has already made progress on one affordable housing project, with more in the pipeline; Depot Square, a 34-unit live-work building planned for Front Street in Driggs and made possible through the state’s low-income housing tax credit, could break ground as soon as this August. There is also interest in revitalizing the Gemstone Subdivision, a partially-developed neighborhood in Driggs that was intended to provide a considerable amount of affordable housing. In the meantime, the housing authority is pursuing other possible projects on city-owned land in Victor and on county-owned land next to the courthouse. Infrastructure Each government in the valley keeps a running tally of roads deemed due for an upgrade or preventative maintenance; the list never seems to end, and officials have to prioritize which projects to spend their jurisdiction’s limited budgets on. Fortunately, Teton County will soon see federal dollars for large regional transportation projects, thanks to a $20 million BUILD grant that was announced last fall. The grant includes more commuter buses for the Southern Teton Area Rapid Transit, pathway improvements in Driggs, and funding to the Idaho Transportation Department for improvements to Highway
33, with a passing lane between Moose Creek and 9500 S and turning lanes at Baseline, 8000 S, 7000 S, 6000 S, 4500 S, 2000 S, and LeGrand Pierre Avenue. Those improvements are slated for 2024-25. Another direct result of growth is more traffic and increased waste tonnages at the Teton County Transfer Station outside of Driggs. At the transfer station, the solid waste department collects trash for transport to a landfill in Jefferson County, and stores recyclables to use on site or sell for reclamation. Construction companies, the local curbside waste hauler, and private citizens all use the transfer station and its single scale, which can make for long lines at the entrance and congestion in the dumping areas. An audit performed last year revealed that the county could improve the facility with up to six million dollars invested in equipment, a second scale, staffing, and access improvements. The Teton Board of County Commissioners is still wrestling with that recommendation and exploring alternative options. Victor and Driggs each have their own projects with big price tags that they are trying to come to terms with. In 2019, review of Victor’s city hall building on Elm Street showed that it was unsafe for use by the city’s administrative staff, and inadequate to meet the growing needs of the public works department, so city hall was temporarily relocated to the Crossroads Building across the street from the Victor Valley Market, and in March the Victor City Council decided to seek approval from voters for a bond to pay for construction of a new city hall on Depot Street and renovations to the public works facility. In Driggs, the wastewater treatment facility that processes influent from Driggs, Victor, and some properties outside of city limits, has for several years been discharging too much GETOUT IN TETON VALLEY 2021
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ammonia into a tributary of the Teton River and the only fix appears to be costly upgrades to the plant. Driggs community development director Doug Self explained that the cities have certain mechanisms to recover costs related to growth, such as transportation and park impact fees, local improvement districts, utility connection fees, local sales taxes on services used by visitors, and increased zoning densities to encourage more housing infill. “While there may be a delay of a couple of years where infrastructure and services seem stressed (and housing availability seems near zero), those systems are still functioning and responding,” Self added. “The character of the towns and valley will continue to change however, just as they always have. Change is tough, especially over shorter time periods, but poorly managed change is even tougher.” Development In unincorporated areas like greater Teton County and Alta, Wyoming, low-density residential development often does not pay for itself. After a relatively quiet few years in the planning office, Teton County is seeing an influx of new, large subdivision applications, despite there being approximately 7,000 undeveloped lots in the county that have already been platted. Meanwhile, a steering committee composed of elected and appointed officials, Teton County staff, and a consulting firm has been working since 2019 on an updated county land development code. The existing code was adopted in 1979, but the county is required by state law to revise its code to meet the visions and goals laid out in the comprehensive plan, which was adopted in 2012. The land development code gives specificity and teeth to the broader elements of the comprehensive plan, such as land use regulations, natural resource overlays, allowed development density, and subdivision processes. The new code is on track to be adopted sometime this summer after a big community outreach push and several public hearings in front of the county planning and zoning commission and the board of county commissioners. “We’re never going to be the same again,” Commissioner Riegel said about growth in Teton Valley. “There’s very little we can do to stop it but we could have been more prepared–we could have had the land development code ready sooner, we could have convinced the state legislature that the county needs better tools to pay for things that the community values, we should have had a short-term rental permitting system in place, we could have had better wildlife protection.” The last decade has brought renewed economic vitality Teton Valley News
as well; Teton Valley has long been home to restaurants, nonprofits, art, and agriculture, but in recent years more small-scale industrial businesses, outdoor brands, food and beverage companies, and retail stores have opened or relocated to the valley. Public Lands The Teton Basin Ranger District of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest is combatting increasing pressure and a decreasing budget to manage recreation and maintain resources within the valley’s several swaths of public forest land. Last summer, District Ranger Jay Pence said the area saw a frenzy of outdoor recreation, which resulted in more littering, many new user-created dispersed camping sites, campfires left smoldering, and plentiful food storage violations. “People are using the bear boxes as garbage cans. That’s annoying,” Pence told the Teton Valley News at the time. “We’re not funded to have a front country ranger who just visits with people and cleans up after them.” Teton County and Idaho Fish & Game are in the midst of debating short- and long-term solutions to crowding and user conflicts on the Teton River, the valley’s prominent waterway that’s popular with fisherman and floaters and home to valued wildlife including the Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Grand Targhee Resort, Teton Valley’s ski hill that has garnered a national reputation for consistently excellent snow combined with a quiet, family-friendly scene, is no stranger to growth. The resort has plans, approved by Teton County, Wyoming commissioners in 2018, to update and increase its base area amenities including lodging, parking, and residential units. Grand Targhee is now in the process of seeking approval for even more ambitious projects, this time on the Caribou-Targhee National Forest lands leased by the ski hill through a special use permit. The master development plan proposes new chair lifts, on-mountain dining, more trail-building, and an expansion of the resort’s boundary to include slopes on the south face and western shoulder of Peaked Mountain. With the help of local and state agencies and organizations, the Forest Service is in the midst of drafting an environmental impact statement, which is expected to come out later this summer. The draft EIS will give several alternatives including a “no build” and “full build” option, and will be open to public comment before being adopted, likely in early 2022. Interested in learning more about these issues and following along as they develop? Read the Teton Valley News, out in print every Wednesday and available online at tetonvalleynews.net. n tetonvalleynews.net
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From Local Pens
Great Kids’ Reads by Teton-Area Writers By Melissa Thomasma There’s something about the Tetons that stir a deep level of inspiration. It’s no surprise that Teton Valley is home to countless creative people — from artists and sculptors to musicians and writers. Here are a few of our favorite family books penned by local authors. You’ll find these titles at local bookstores, gift shops, or available online.
The beautiful picture book The Sequoia Lives On, penned by Jackson-based author Joanna Cooke, celebrates the majesty of the mighty sequoia trees and the steadfast power of the natural world. Also by Cooke, Call Me Floy is an exciting adventure tale about a passionate young woman’s quest for adventure in the mountains.
Teri McLaren, a local writer, artist, and owner of the Local Galleria in downtown Driggs penned Beezie Bananabean And The Very Wise Unicorn as a celebration of kindness and loyalty. The whimsical story and beautiful artwork draw in readers of all ages.
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When their beloved forest is invaded by Curious Creature Catchers, brave Beba and her companion Zilly the Zebroose must find a way to protect it. Written by local author Lydia Griffin, this exciting and colorful tale celebrates the power of being unique.
Written by Get Out’s own Melissa Thomasma, Cinder Rescue Cat is a story of bravery, loyalty, and friendship in the face of danger. Inspired by the author’s time as a firefighter and EMT, this adventure story is based on actual events from the area.
Written by local art teacher Wendy Starkey, Even the Trees Know Their ABCs is a playful journey into discovering the shapes and patterns found in the natural world. A fun read for children of all ages, and an invitation to discover and appreciate the details all in the world all around.
Written by Scott and Jannine Fitzgerald, founders and former owners of Fitzgerald’s Bicycles, this playful alphabet book teaches kids about the myriad benefits of biking. The sequel, Buddy Pegs Taking the Lead, follows the same characters in an ongoing encouragement to kids to get outside and enjoy a bike ride.
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Jeff Brines
A Backyard
Dirt Bike Haven By Meg Reeder The Big Hole Mountains rise steadily out of the west side of Teton Valley. They lack the drama of their neighbors to the east, the Teton Range, which begin similarly—sloping on their western flanks—only to rise precipitously to crystalline peaks identifiable from hundreds of miles away. Don’t let the Big Holes fool you. What may appear like a gentle sloping array of innocuous, indiscernible peaks is filled with both dramatic canyons and ridgelines that reveal themselves only to those who venture deep into the range. While the Big Holes offer recreational opportunities for all, they are a veritable mecca for mechanized and motorized users. As part of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, the Big Holes have an extensive motorized trail system that crisscrosses the range and has fantastic riding for all ages and abilities. Mountain bikers will find both well-constructed non-motorized and shared trails on which to test their 34 |
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skills. The adventurous mountain biker can choose to gain access deep into the Big Holes with trails open to all users. The trail system of the Big Holes really shines for dirt bike riders. Dirt bike riding opens up a world of exploration that goes beyond the 1-to-5-mile vicinity of the trailhead— where most users can be found. From ridgelines and peaks to canyons and creek beds and everything in between, the motorized trail system in the Big Holes can challenge even the most experienced rider. The thrills come from traversing such varied terrain, enjoying the natural environment, and the feeling of accomplishment that comes from properly wrangling the oftentimes unwieldy beast up and over obstacles, or sometimes simply in the desired direction. Naysayers may think there’s a laziness to motorized travel, but I assure you one’s full attention— both mentally and physically—is required to handle these 200-300lb machines adeptly across the varied terrain.
The Big Holes are situated in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the most unspoiled and oftentimes controversial areas of the West. Having such quality motorized access in this pristine area is unique and truly a privilege. With great privilege comes great responsibility. OK, so that’s not the original phrase. But it is no less true. It is up to all users to act responsibly by respecting one another and the land. As more users flock to the great outdoors, knowing the rules of how to behave—similar to the rules of how to drive—are important. An important rule is to know when to yield. Yield means to slow down or stop, establish communication and pass in a safe and friendly manner. Mountain bikers yield to hikers. Motorized users yield to non-motorized users. Everyone yields to horses. When encountering horses, it is important to turn off your engines and ask the rider for the safest way to proceed. Avoid sudden movements that may spook horses and try to stay downhill of Teton Valley News
them. Sometimes you have to be patient—take a moment to enjoy the view. One often overlooked reality that runs counter to the rules of who-yields-to-whom, is that non-motorized users can hear motorized users approaching and not the other way around. So, while motorized users should be yielding, I encourage self-preservation; if you are a non-motorized trail user on a multi-use trail and you hear a motorized user approaching you, if you can, save yourself and safely move aside so the motorized user can pass. This is especially important in areas of poor visibility. Not only is it likely that the motorized user cannot hear the non-motorized user, they’re also likely to be traveling faster. Speaking as a motorized user, I would say we are more than happy to stop for non-motorized users, but that’s not always the reality of the situation. The same scenario is frequent for mechanized users and non-mechanized users, or mountain bikers and hikers. As motorized or mechanized users, we’ve all had the “Oh #*it! Sorrrrry!” encounter— which is short for, “I didn’t see you. Thank you so much for moving off the trail for me to go by. You rock! I’ll try to yield to you next time. Have a great day!” All of this ties into an intuitive rule of the trail—be alert to your surroundings. Wildlife need space. Give it to them. Be aware of trail conditions, the weather, and noises that could mean wildlife or other users are nearby. Respect the trails. If you are leaving deep prints (hoof, tire, or foot) or mud is sticking to your shoes or tires, the trail is too wet to use. Motorized users need to purchase OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) permits and should stick to officially designated trails. Obey posted closures. Don’t create shortcuts on switchbacks. Mechanized and motorized users should never poach Wilderness Areas. Again, access is a privilege. Don’t let this privilege be taken away! In addition to having awareness and respect for other users and your surroundings, trail users need to be aware of themselves by riding within their ability level and not under the influence of substances. Control yourself, your bike, your dog, or your horse. Remember every user on the trail is a fellow nature lover. And finally, we’ve all heard it before, but here it is again: don’t litter. Pick up and pack out your own trash or any trash you may find. We are so fortunate to have access to these beautiful, wild spaces. Be an ambassador for your sport! Be polite to all trail users. Educate yourself and others on proper trail etiquette. Have fun and enjoy the trails! Meg Reeder is a passionate dirt biker and serves as a board member for the regional nonprofit Advocates for Multi-Use of Public Lands, or AMPL. n tetonvalleynews.net
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Maps by Friends of the Teton River, Teton Valley Trails and Pathways, and Canyon Media. For more information visit tetonwater.org and tvtap.org.
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Dragons Continued from page 23
Walking Into the Magic The Teton Valley Balloon Rally, LLP with our team of three women, The Hot Crew, at the helm started to grow. We learned what worked and what REALLY didn’t. We talked to parents of young kids and heard their stories of coming to see the balloons when they were young. We saw the awe on children’s faces; the joy as they ran and danced in the dappled light inside our walk-in balloon, billowing on its side like a sleeping dragon. We realized that what mattered most was making sure that the sense of wonder which we all felt for different reasons would always be there, for everyone. In 2015 the Teton Valley Balloon Rally became at 501(c)3 non-profit organization. In 2016, we provided our first scholarship to the Balloon Federation of America’s Balloon Camp to a Teton Valley student. The magic was thriving. Also in 2015, my son was born – that 4-year-old who woke up in the early morning to the sound of the dragons. These days, you’ll find our vintage camper parked right behind the information booth at the balloon field during the Rally. It’s an office, a playroom, a respite from the midday heat after the field has cleared. From there, Margaret and I welcome pilots, crew, volunteers, spectators, dogs, kids, and anyone else who wants to experience the magic. We got thrown a curve ball in 2020 when a global pandemic had people all over the world tucked away in their homes, events shut down, uncertainty and fear reigning. There were so many things that we didn’t know, but the one thing that was absolutely certain was that it was a time when people NEEDED the magic. The beauty. The sense of awe and wonder and joy that we had been cultivating over the years. We knew we had to host the Rally. So we did - it was a little different, in some ways it was better. And I’m so, so glad we did. 40 Years Later This summer my son will be 6. It will be the 10th year that the Hot Crew has run the Teton Valley Balloon Rally. The world is still reeling in what we hope is the twilight of the COVID-19 pandemic. As we gear up to celebrate 40 years of magic this summer, my sweet kid is ready for the return of the friendly dragons. Why dragons, you ask? Come camp at the field. As the morning starts to brighten and you loosen from slumber, you’ll hear them – waking up and roaring their fiery greeting to the day skyward. Come be a part of the magic. The 2021 Teton Valley Balloon rally will take place July 1-4 at the Teton County Fairgrounds in Driggs, ID. n 38 |
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Teton Valley News
Casting Kids
Fly Fishing is Not Just for Adults
By Melissa Thomasma
For decades, fly fishing has had the reputation of being an elite sport — a refined pursuit reserved for those with wealth or status. Much like golf, it seemed to be dominated by a narrow demographic. I’m truly delighted to witness the steady dissolving of this assumption, and relish the ever-expanding diversity among people finding joy in fly fishing. No longer is it an activity reserved for an exclusive few. Yet one relic of this archaic reputation of fly fishing seems to be lingering. Allow me to challenge it outright: fly fishing is not just for adults. Kids not only can learn to fly fish — and sincerely enjoy it — but there are a great many lessons and skills that it reinforces in a meaningful way. My dad first handed me a fly rod at the age of 7. We were a couple of days into a week-long rafting trip on the Middle Fork of the Salmon, and I was absolutely enthralled by the graceful casting and boisterous excitement of hooking and landing the shimmering fish. As a teacher through and through, he invited me to try. I loved it right away. I caught my first trout on a fly rod — on a small olive wooly bugger where a side stream met the mighty Salmon River. All these years later, I still remember it. The following Christmas, Santa delivered my own rod and reel. A young angler was born. Throughout my teenage years, I drifted in and out of fish-passionate phases (as teenagers do), but I always came back to it. What I didn’t quite see at the time was that fly fishing was an activity that encouraged me to invest in myself — my own knowledge, independence, patience, tetonvalleynews.net
and connection to the natural world — in a way that other pursuits didn’t. As we head into another summer somewhat modified by the pandemic, many families are opting to spend more time outside: camping, floating the river, hiking. It’s the perfect opportunity to introduce your kids to the magic of fly fishing. I sought the advice of another lifelong Teton Valley angler and fishing guide, Boots Allen, to offer some tips for getting young people exposed to — and successful at — fly fishing. Allen agrees that young people are absolutely capable of learning to appreciate the sport. “In my experience, 9 years old is about the average age to start a kid out with fly fishing,” he muses. But it’s not a hard and fast starting line, he adds. “I have had 7-year-olds who are totally focused and stay that way all day long. One particular girl I have guided since she was 6 and is now with me three or four times a year at 15 years old and her progression is phenomenal. Her 12-yearold sister is right on her tail.” He offers some other recommen-
dations for parents getting their kids interested in fly fishing. “The suggestion I would give to parents is to start their kids off on easy water like the South Fork of the Snake or the Green below Flaming Gorge and then to progress to more challenging water like the Snake in Wyoming or parts of the Henry’s Fork.” “What I have learned from casting instruction clinics is that it is important to let kids have downtime on the water. They may want to only fish for about 20 or 30 minutes and then take a break of an hour or so. Let them have that break — it’s no big deal. Those breaks let them recharge for the next round 30 or 60 minutes down the road. Believe me, they will take to the sport better and enjoy it much more if they are not pushed,” Allen adds. If fly fishing isn’t a skill that you’ve got already, it’s a great opportunity to learn alongside your kids. Sign up for a family casting clinic, or better yet, book a guide for a day. They’ll give you all the instruction you need, zero experience necessary. You just might find yourself hooked. n GETOUT IN TETON VALLEY 2021
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Jonathan A. McLaren REALTOR ABR, RENE C: 307.413.5238 jonathan.mclaren@jhsir.com jonathanmclaren.jhsir.com
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