JACKSON, Wyo. — In its 25-plus years as one of Jackson Hole’s leading watershed advocacy organizations, Snake River Fund has remained committed to protecting safe access to the valley’s streams and promoting stewardship through education, partnerships and public outreach.
Snake River Fund began as an outfitter-driven nonprofit to allow fee-free access to the Snake River in Bridger-Teton National Forest. Today, Snake River Fund’s impact is visible on the entire stretch of stream from the Moose Bridge to Alpine. Snake River Fund has spearheaded the transfer of hundreds of acres of Bureau of Land Management riverside parcels to Teton County management and continues to fight for public access to these lands, including early-season ramp plowing each March and assisting in numerous improvements to access points along the river.
Promoting access to the Snake includes getting the community out and on the water. Each year, Snake River Fund hosts 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 gear and how they can help protect the watershed from the multiple threats it faces. For many, these programs offer a first chance at floating down a river. In 2024, Snake River Fund hosted over 500 participants. All programs are cost-free. Partner organizations include Coombs Outdoors, Teton County Parks and Recreation, Camina Conmigo, Honor Our Veterans, Teton Adaptive Sports and many others.
A large part of Snake River Fund’s mission involves stewardship of the watershed. Since 2021, Snake River Fund has funded a water quality monitoring station on the Hoback River. Many stream restoration projects — including work on Spread Creek, Edmiston Spring Creek and Horse Creek — have involved funding and volunteer efforts provided through Snake River Fund. The organization also educates river users regarding other dangers facing the watershed including aquatic invasive species, rising water temperatures, elevated nitrate levels, and risks posed by streamside development on numerous rivers and creeks in the valley.
With Old Bill’s Fun Run season upon us, consider Snake River Fund’s work and how it benefits individual people and the community. Whether an angler, a whitewater enthusiast, a leisurely scenic boater or just someone who enjoys pacing the banks of the waterways, Snake River Fund is here to protect the beloved waters. Donate to Snake River Fund through Old Bill’s Fun Run here.
Snake River Fund is the voice for the river.
