JACKSON, Wyo. — Annual maintenance at the Alpine Wetlands Public Access Area (PAA) will help to ensure continuous water flow and full ponds this fall, according to an announcement by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD). The agency will collaborate with Ducks Unlimited, the Bureau of Reclamation and Caribou-Targhee National Forest on the project.
The Alpine Wetlands PAA is 2 miles south of Alpine at the upper end of Palisades Reservoir and adjacent to the Salt River. This area features a series of ponds, sloughs and permanent wetlands.
According to the WGFD, the goal is to reduce sedimentation, maintain water flow during low water periods and repair several grade control structures on the wetlands. The current infrastructure allows sediment from the Salt River to enter the Coot ditch, where it settles as the water slows down. This deposition restricts water flow to the ponds and causes them to dry out when the water levels in the Salt River drop. The WGFD wrote on its website that the maintenance work will help maintain the proper water levels.
The PAA will remain open, but the wetlands will be dry during the maintenance work. The wetlands will be refilled once the project is completed. Visitors should use designated parking areas, respect private property, refrain from camping and lighting fires and keep pets leashed or under control at all times. Waterfowl hunting is not permitted on the wetlands.
To help ensure public safety, the WGFD requests that visitors stay clear of construction crews and give equipment the right of way.
