JACKSON, Wyo. — Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) announced on Wednesday, July 2, that it will begin reduction of hazardous fuels on Phillips Ridge starting July 15.

The operations will take place adjacent to the power line corridor north of Teton Pass on the Jackson Ranger District. Weather permitting, crews will begin mechanical thinning from July 15 through October, putting road and trail closures in place for public safety.

Image of the planned closure on Phillips Ridge. Graphic: BTNF

Phillips Ridge Road will be closed to motorized vehicles starting on Wednesday, July 9, to mobilize heavy equipment. Full closures in the area will begin July 15, including Phillips Bench and Snotel Site roads, as well as Phillips Ridge and Snotel trails. The following trails will remain open during the operations: Ski Lake, Arrow and Phillips Pass.

Contractors will work from north to south on the 146-acre project area, and will implement a phased reopening of the roads and trails when safe and practical to do so.

Mechanical thinning operations are part of a multi-year effort to reduce hazardous fuels in the Teton to Snake River Fuels Management Area. Heavy equipment will be utilized to remove trees and other vegetation, which reduces tree density and fuel load.

The official closure notice can be viewed here.

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.