JACKSON, Wyo. — The Snake River Fund wants to remind everyone recreating in Jackson Hole to stay safe on the water this summer.
Midsummer is prime time for water enthusiasts in Snake River Country. Paddlers, anglers and scenic floaters enjoy hundreds of stream miles found throughout the watershed, typically when weather is pristine and temperatures are at their warmest. But remember, the Snake River is demanding and requires vigilance and preparation.
Each year, Teton County Search and Rescue, Grand Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest respond to dozens of accidents on local rivers and lakes. Some result in fatalities.
In its efforts to reduce on-water accidents, Snake River Fund, Teton County Search and Rescue Foundation, and other partners conduct an on-water safety campaign each July to encourage river users to be safe. The campaign reaches its peak on the week of the July Fourth holiday – one of the busiest times of the year in Jackson Hole. This endeavor began in 2017, when flows on the Snake at Alpine peaked over 30,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), and a spike in river fatalities spurred the community into action.
As part of this campaign, the Fund underwrites a women’s swift water rescue certification clinic in conjunction with Women in the Tetons, Teton County Search and Rescue and Black Fox Rescue Institute.
The most visible signs of the organization’s commitment to safety can be seen at various boat ramps along the Snake River, where personal floatation devices are stocked at life jacket loaner stations. Kiosks are located at Wilson Bridge, South Park Bridge and Astoria boat ramps. Life jackets are generously provided by the Sea Tow Foundation and local river outfitters. It is important that personal flotation devices are properly fitted and worn correctly. Please remember to return jackets after use.
Those who are planning to float the river should remember that groups of 15 or more need a permit before launching from ramps managed by Bridger-Teton National Forest. The Snake River Fund would also like to give a friendly reminder that all watercraft using Wyoming waters are required to have an Aquatic Invasive Species decal and that anyone planning on fishing must have a valid fishing license.
On the morning of July Fourth, Snake River Fund staff will be at South Park Bridge to field safety questions and provide information for users unfamiliar with hazards and conditions found on the river. SRF also encourages users to check out its river conditions map and resource page here.
Have a safe and fun Independence Day!
