WILSON, Wyo. — The Snake River Fund (SRF) has steadfastly worked over the past 25-plus years to provide access and safety to all those who enjoy recreating on the Snake River from the Wilson Bridge downstream to Alpine.
The organization’s work benefits the entire community by offering life jacket loaner kiosks, strategically place AEDs, renovated boat ramps and an annual early season plowing campaign.
The Snake River Fund maintains life jacket loaner kiosks at a number of boats ramps along the Snake River. Photo: SRF
SRF’s work goes far beyond these more visible efforts along the cherished riparian corridor. Each year, SRF conducts scores of educational programs for area youth and underserved members of the community. Participants learn about the ecology and natural history of the Snake and its tributaries, as well as the importance of river etiquette, proper use of safety equipment and how to help protect the watershed. For many, these programs offer the first chance to float down a river.
Area youth participate in the Snake River Days Summer Camp program offered through Snake River Fund. Photo SRF
In 2024, the Snake River Fund will host over 400 participants for the first time. All programs are cost-free or near cost-free. Partner organizations will include Coombs Outdoors, Teton County Parks and Recreation, Comina Conmigo and Teton Adaptive Sports. The Fund also provides a two-night educational series each spring focused on the pertinent issues the watershed faces.
The Snake River Fund’s mission involves stewardship of the Snake River Watershed. Since 2021, SRF has funded a water quality monitoring station on the Hoback River, the integrity of which is threatened by potential development along its upstream reaches. Many stream restoration projects, including work on Spread Creek, Edmiston Spring Creek and Horse Creek, involved funding and volunteer efforts provided through Snake River Fund. The Fund also educates river users about the dangers facing the watershed including aquatic invasive species, rising water temperatures, elevated nitrate levels and risks posed by streamside development.
With Old Bill’s Fun Run season upon us, consider Snake River Fund’s work and how it benefits the community. Whether an angler, a whitewater enthusiast, a leisurely scenic boater or just someone who enjoys pacing the banks of the valley’s waterways, SRF is here to promote access to and stewardship of the Snake. The Snake River Fund is the voice of the river.
