Sourdough, Drones, and Goldfish: Takeaways from Our Summer Outings
How does a toilet flushing in Jackson connect to high-tech potato farming in Idaho? This summer, SRHWG members toured Jackson’s Wastewater Treatment Plant and downstream farming operations to see how water shapes our entire watershed. Read our full recap to discover key takeaways, surprising insights, and reflections on building cross-sector solutions for the Snake River!
Buffer Zones & Sewer Access, Major Water Quality Wins
Jackson Hole recently secured two major policy victories to safeguard clean water, from mandatory vegetated buffer zones that shade trout streams and filter runoff, to streamlined sewer connections that replace high-risk septic systems in outlying neighborhoods.
Protecting the Snake River Headwaters: Wild & Scenic Water Rights Advance
In a landmark step for river stewardship, federal land managers are seeking to secure water rights for the upper Snake River and its tributary, the Lewis River, under the Craig Thomas Snake Headwaters Legacy Act. This move, years in the making, is designed to permanently protect the natural flows and outstanding values of these iconic rivers—ensuring that the Snake River Headwaters remain a resilient, thriving ecosystem for generations to come.
To learn more, read the linked article.
The Town’s Sewage Plant, Adjoining Wetlands, & Surface Water Quality
What happens to Jackson’s wastewater after it leaves our homes? This entry breaks down how the Town’s wastewater treatment plant works, the role of wetlands, and what recent monitoring shows about water quality in the Snake River. It’s a clear look at an essential system most of us never see—and why it matters for our community and watershed.
Community Comes Together for the Snake River Headwaters
More than 80 community members gathered for Watershed Connections: A Community Conversation with the Snake River Headwaters Watershed Group. The evening featured a film screening, insights from local leaders, and a lively panel discussion on the future of our watershed. Together, residents, landowners, and partners explored how collaboration is shaping a more resilient Snake River Headwaters.
Read the full event recap and see highlights!
Floating for Science: SRHWG Joins WYACT on the Snake
On July 16th, 12 SRHWG members floated the Snake River with researchers from the University of Wyoming WyACT project (Wyoming Anticipating the Climate-Water Transition). Members witnessed water quality data being collected to examine how variations in water temperature over space and time shape thermal habitats in the Upper Snake River, Wyoming, a critical habitat for the native Snake River Cutthroat Trout.
Streamflows at Near-Record Lows
National Park Service scientists observe near-record low streamflows on the Upper Snake River. Read to learn more.
An Angler’s Perspective
What do healthy trout, early-morning fishing trips, and potatoes have in common? In this Entry from the Field, outfitter Jason “JB” Balogh reflects on a year of unusual weather, the balancing act between farming and fishing, and why coming together can make a difference for Cutthroat trout.