May 2024 Conservation Chronicle

CC Planning document

Instructions: Once you have confirmed what you’re writing about in the CC Planning Document, please add content for your pieces below. All content needs to be finalized by Tuesday, May 7. We will disseminate the newsletter on Thursday, May 9.

ED Update:

(Title): Onward and Upward

(Subheading): The First 30 Days

(Content):

One month in and almost 45 years of history beneath me, to say I’ve seen just the tip of the iceberg is an understatement. I’m learning about the various eras that the Alliance has had, and overall many of the issues we face today are similar to what we have over the years. The one big difference is the scale of change that is happening.

Currently, Northern South Park, the largest development outside of town was just approved and the process of shaping it’s efficacy for our two and four legged residents is yet to come; we have the largest building ever built in Jackson being proposed at the gateway to Jackson from the north; development of Stilson that could rearrange 50 acres and turn what is currently mostly open space and a dirt lot at the core of elk migration and winter moose habitat into pavement apartments, retail, daycare among other things that simply don’t belong there; Karns Meadow, one of the last safe havens for wildlife within town, is teetering between remaining a resource for our community to retreat to and enjoy the abundance of wildlife activity as locals know to do - from a distance, to another pathway bisecting habitat and disrupting movements. These are just a few of the issues looming, but knowing these areas I hope you also feel the weight of the decisions currently pending.

With our recent addition to the Alliance team, we are fully staffed and pushing forward on the critical issues faced by Jackson Hole. Will you join us? Please consider making a donation to the Alliance today, so we can continue working to protect all of Jackson Hole’s tomorrows!

Conservation:

(Title): What Will Happen to Wildlife at Stilson?

(Subheading): Exploring the Impact of New Developments: Fencing, Transit Center, and Road Underpasses

(Content):

## Keeping Wildlife on the Move: Safe Passages at Stilson Park

The extreme seasonality of climate and distribution of habitat in Jackson Hole require most wildlife to move both seasonally and as a part of their daily lives. Oftentimes, the movement patterns and migration routes of the Valley’s iconic wildlife intersect with our sprawling road system. This is where wildlife crossings come in – innovative structures designed to keep both wildlife and motorists safe.

Teton County has been a leader in wildlife crossings both in Wyoming and nationally. In 2019, The Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance helped our community approve a $10 million Special Purpose Excise Tax (SPET) specifically for wildlife crossing projects. This funding, along with collaboration between Teton County, the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT), and federal agencies, has led to significant progress for our wild neighbors who must navigate our sprawling road system.

Below is a snapshot of the local crossing projects from our 2022-23 Coexistence Report.

One particularly exciting development is the installation of wildlife underpasses on Highway 390 and Highway 22 at Stilson Park in Wilson, Wyoming (#1 in the image above, being completed currently). This high-traffic area has been a known wildlife-vehicle collision hotspot. By constructing underpasses, wildlife will have a safe passage beneath the roads, reducing the risk of wildlife vehicle collisions.

The underpasses at Stilson Park are intended to reduce the number of wildlife collisions on both Highways 390 and 22, as the Greater Stilson area has been a hotspot for wildlife vehicle collisions, especially moose, shown below (Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation data from 2011-2021).

A schematic of the concrete box crossing structures and locations (#3 and #4 on road map)

In this time of rapid change and activity at Stilson, it’s important for us to anticipate wildlife behavior change and to do all that we can to help them navigate safely to and from the new highway underpasses. Critically, both of the underpasses empty into Stilson Park, so what we decide to do, or not do, there is now more critical then ever! A major north-south travel corridor in the Snake River riparian complex for moose, elk, mule deer, and other wildlife is at stake!

What are the anticipated changes in wildlife activity patterns

Research has shown that the presence of roads and human activity can significantly alter the activity patterns of wildlife. Animals may change the location and timing of activities to avoid human development and activity, with some species becoming more nocturnal to evade daytime disturbances. The installation of wildlife crossings at Stilson is expected to have an impact on the wildlife that is known to use that area – namely moose and elk.

Nocturnality and Crossing Behavior

One of the most significant changes anticipated with the new crossings is an adjustment in nocturnal behaviors. Studies have indicated that animals like elk and moose modify their crossing behavior to avoid peak human activity times, with elk crossing earlier in the morning and later in the evening, and moose opting for later at night (see figures below). This shift towards increased nocturnality is a direct response to the need to navigate human disturbances safely. What we do at Stilson at night really matters – that is when wildlife are going to be traveling through.

Data from Banff National Park front-country crossing structures vs. backcountry crossings (Baruetto et al. 2014). The difference between the orange line (backcountry) and blue line (wildlife crossing structure) indicates how each species changed their road crossing behavior at a wildlife crossing. Both elk and moose showed increased nocturnality when using the wildlife crossings.

A worldwide increase in nocturnality

A recent meta-study of 163 species across 103 projects all around the world found that as human activity increased, generally mammals showed increased nocturnality. There were differences between different types of animals (see figure below from Burton et al. 2024), bur generally, animals moved their activities to night time to avoid human encounters.

The Role of Human Management

An essential factor in the success of wildlife crossings is the management of human development and activity around these structures. Poorly planned and inconsiderate development at Stilson would render the publicly funded multi-million dollar underpasses defunct. Limited and intelligent development that includes appropriately wide travel corridors, and properly managed human activity. These considerations will allow wildlife to trust the safety of these underpass crossings. Considerate planning enhances the safety and connectivity of animal and human populations in the Valley.

Night Time closure of Beckley Parkway – facilitating safe wildlife passage at night: We know the most likely time wildlife will feel comfortable using the new undrepasses will be at night. Closing Beckley Parkway at night will complete a nocturnal safe passage wildlife corridor. Removing as many obstacles to safe passage as possible will maximize wildlife use of these new untested underpasses.

And really, it doesn’t make sense for wildlife to have to cross a potentially busy road to get to an underpass…

BELOW IS HOW THE JACKSON HOLE CONSERVATION ALLIANCE ENVISIONS THE FUTURE OF STILSON — A TRANSIT CENTER AND A WILDLIFE CORRIDOR – NOTHING ELSE!

The Future of Stilson

The installation of new wildlife crossings at Stilson in Wilson, Wyoming, represents a significant step forward in conservation efforts to maintain our iconic wildlife in Jackson Hole. By providing safe passage for animals across highways 22 and 390, these crossings are expected to reduce habitat fragmentation and the impact of roadways on wildlife.

To maximize the success of the new underpasses, we should remove barriers to animal movement, keeping an open 600 foot wildlife corridor, closing Beckely Parkway at night, and keeping other development out of this important wildlife area.

As we move forward, the continued study and responsible management of these crossing structures and Stilson Park will be vital in ensuring safe passage for our wildlife. [a]

References

Barrueto, M., Ford, A. T., & Clevenger, A. P. (2014). Anthropogenic effects on activity patterns of wildlife at crossing structures. Ecosphere, 5(3), 1-19.

Burton, A.C., Beirne, C., Gaynor, K.M. et al. Mammal responses to global changes in human activity vary by trophic group and landscape. Nat Ecol Evol (2024).

Development/Fundraising: Stilson Development (Frances Murray)

(Title): Saving Stilson

(Subheading): Preserving Jackson Hole’s Natural Legacy with Your Support

(Full blog post):

Dear Supporters of the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance,

As advocates for the preservation of Jackson Hole's natural beauty and wildlife habitats, the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance is reaching out to you with urgent news regarding the proposed development of the Stilson lot. This massive development project poses a significant threat to our community's environmental integrity, and we need your support now more than ever to ensure that Jackson Hole remains a haven for both humans and wildlife alike.

Wildlife Protection: A Matter of Urgency

- Proposed developments at Stilson endanger two vital wildlife underpasses funded by SPET. These underpasses serve as critical crossings for our wildlife, allowing them to move freely across the landscape. However, the proposed site plans threaten to shrink these corridors to widths that are insufficient for wildlife use, essentially creating "tunnels to nowhere" in the eyes of our wildlife population. Additionally, increased traffic and noise from the development will further disrupt the delicate balance of our local ecosystems.
- We cannot afford to let $7.65 million of taxpayer money go to waste on underpasses that may become obsolete due to irresponsible development. Your donation will help us fight to protect these crucial wildlife corridors and ensure the survival of our native species.

Preserving Scenic Beauty for Future Generations

- The scenic views of the 22 corridor, protected by the Teton County Scenic Preserve Trust easement, are also at risk due to the proposed development. Amendments to this easement would result in financial gain for some parties, disregarding the fundamental purpose of the easement—to preserve our natural landscapes for future generations. With no Board of Directors for the TCSPT, it falls upon us and the Board of County Commissioners to uphold the integrity of this vital conservation tool.
- Your donation will enable us to advocate for the protection of our scenic vistas and wildlife habitats, ensuring that Jackson Hole remains a place of unparalleled natural beauty for generations to come.

Addressing Traffic and Transportation Concerns

- While improvements to transportation infrastructure, such as a new transit center and START bus priority traffic lights, offer promising solutions to traffic congestion and commute times, the proposed site plans at Stilson threaten to undermine these efforts. The addition of athletic fields, daycare facilities, housing, and retail establishments will only exacerbate traffic issues and increase noise and disturbance in critical wildlife corridors.
- By donating to the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance, you support our efforts to advocate for sustainable development practices that prioritize the well-being of both our community and our environment.

Upholding the Comprehensive Plan: Our Guiding Light

- Our community's Comprehensive Plan, finalized in 20 12, serves as a blueprint for responsible growth and development in Jackson Hole. It emphasizes the importance of balancing human needs with the protection of our natural resources, including wildlife habitats and scenic vistas. It is time for our elected officials to honor the commitments laid out in this plan and ensure that future development aligns with our community's values and priorities.
- Your donation empowers us to hold our officials accountable and advocate for the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan, ensuring that future development in Jackson Hole is both sustainable and respectful of our natural heritage.

The fight to protect Jackson Hole's natural beauty and wildlife habitats requires the collective effort of our entire community. Your generous donation to the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance will enable us to continue advocating for responsible development practices and preserving the unique character of our beloved valley.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance

Civic: Wolf Policy

(Title): WY vs. Wolf

(Subheading): Daniel, Wyoming wolf torture: a young female wolf was run over by a snowmobile, brought to a bar and shot out back. Is this considered animal abuse in the state of Wyoming?

(Full blog post):

## Daniel, Wyoming wolf torture: run over by a snowmobile, brought to a bar and shot out back. Is this considered animal abuse in the state of Wyoming?

The gray wolf (Canis lupus) has had a unique history in Wyoming. Once a plentiful species, by the early 1900s, the gray wolf population was faced with a threat to their survival. When settlers moved out west in the 1800s, they colonized Wyoming with their European beliefs about Wolves fully intact. For thousands of years, the wolf was represented in mythology, religion and popular culture as a man-eating monster, Demon and threat to human success and survival. This is in part, due to the impact wolves had, and still have, on livestock. Ranchers can lose thousands of dollars worth of livestock from one single wolf. This threat to livelihood has helped to portray wolves as evil and a pest. Wolves also displayed this representation in stories such as,“The Big Bad Wolf,” fostering a belief in European culture that these animals were better off extirpated.

By 1834, the first permanent settlement in Wyoming was established. At that time, wolves were abundant across North America, with an estimated population of 350,000 to 400,000 prior to colonization. However, as settlers moved west, wolves became targets for extermination. Primarily due to the impact that these animals had livestock and farmer's livelihood. This became such an issue that the federal government launched a campaign, pressured by wealthy livestock owners, to completely kill off wolves. Wolf trapping and carcass poisoning began, with some parts of the U.S providing financial rewards for a dead wolf. By 1930, the wolf population in the Northern Rockies was gone. In 1973, the Endangered Species Act was passed with gray wolves being one of the first species to be listed. In 1987, a gray wolf recovery plan was created, leading to 41 wolves being reintroduced to Yellowstone National Park from 1995-1997. The reintroduction was successful, and the population flourished to an estimated 328 wolves in Wyoming by 2011.

On April 25, 2017, gray wolves were removed from the Endangered Species List and population management was left to the state of Wyoming. Wyoming’s wolf management plan allowed unregulated wolf hunting in approximately 85% of the state. In these parts, gray wolves are known as “predators,” and there are no rules regarding a wolf limit, permitting, season or how they are killed. This is the jurisdiction where Cody Roberts encountered the wolf in late February.

Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are the only “protected zones” where hunting wolves is illegal. The rest of the state (about 15%) is defined as a “Trophy Zone” where residents must obtain a wolf hunting license issued by Wyoming Game and Fish, and the quotas are limited within each hunt unit.Unfortunately, because of this law, wolves are not protected in 85% of the state known as “predator zones”.

###### Note: The original unedited version was taken from Wyoming Game and Fish.

This is why on February 29, when Cody Roberts chased down a gray wolf to the point of exhaustion, captured it, tortured it, tormented it and eventually shot it, he was only issued a $250 dollar fine.

This event has led to an uproar in media attention across the state, nation and globe. People are appalled by Wyoming’s wolf management laws and confused about the lack of punishment for what many consider animal abuse. There is current uncertainty from the state on whether or not a gray wolf in the predator zone is afforded the same protections as domestic animals via animal abuse laws.. If seen as an animal abuse case, Roberts could face a felony charge, resulting in up to 2 years in jail and a $5,000 charge.

This uproar was showcased at the Wyoming Game and Fish Public Hearing on April 17 where over 500 people attended virtually(the maximum allowed by Zoom) and in person to show their opposition for what happened in Daniel, WY. People from all over the United States and even the world gave public comments advocating for the gray wolf that was killed by Roberts. Many advocated for stronger laws to keep these wolves from suffering abuse and stricter punishments for abusers. Hunters, psychologists, veterinarians, entomologists, conservationists and everyday citizens showed up to issue these heartfelt statements.

One attendee drove over 1,800 miles to attend the meeting in person and use her allotted two minutes to speak. Others showed their support from different states via Zoom. One attendee, Dr. Lauren Lindner, a psychologist from Kern County, California offered a $10,000 donation to Wyoming Game and Fish for a proper punishment to be put in place for this injustice. Stating that the “condoning of this kind of violence will haunt us all and will have far reaching effects.” She added the fact that “we don’t view Cody Robert’s behavior as sociopathic, we really just view it as the norm, that is a really serious problem. This is a systemic problem.”

Board certified pathologist, Donald O' Toole , also spoke about this systemic issue. He shared a story about his former coworker running over coyotes with a snowmobile for fun – a common pastime for this person. “I think we have a cultural problem. If you can’t eat it, it’s okay to hunt it down and behave in a cruel manner.” He then quoted Oscar Wilde saying, “Traditional fox hunting was the unspeakable in pursuit of the inedible. I ask you to deal with the unspeakable.”

Others pleaded that this not be a representation of hunters in Wyoming. Jim Laybourn said, “I am a 3rd generation hunter. I tell you, not one of these stories is about chasing an animal down with a motor vehicle until exhaustion, about traumatizing an animal… it was about being a sportsman, it was about being a good shot. Many hunters are worried that this incident will affect their hunting rights and their ability to hunt in the future. I am worried about something worse, I am worried that if there is no change on this issue, Wyoming hunters will forever be associated with the likes of the wolf torturer in Daniel. And I refuse to be associated with him.” It is a disgrace to Wyoming and has to end.” Laybourn then stated that he wouldn’t give a dime to Wyoming Game and Fish until “the department poses real reform on wolf torture.”

Some threatened less funding to Wyoming Game and Fish, while others showed concern for what this event might do to tourism; they stated that they already know of people canceling their trips to Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone, where the tourism dollars have a multimillion dollar impact for the state. Mike Blissett, a small business owner from Cody said, “We all know that tourism is a big industry in this state. My photography business in Cody depends on a strong tourism season to thrive. Hashtags like “Ban Wyoming” are very real. And people let their voices be heard in more ways than what's on Facebook: they also speak with their wallets. They will go elsewhere.”

All the people who gave public comments last week believe that Wyoming needs to make a change when it comes to gray wolf policy and punishments. “As I was driving here from Florence, Montana, I noticed signs along the road warning that littering is a $750 dollar offense. It makes me think that the state has its priorities wrong when you levy a fee of $250 for possession and transportation of live warm blooded wildlife in what appears to be unclear policy against cruelty to wildlife like wolves."(Jessica Cara).

The Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance believes that Wyoming Game and Fish needs to support a bill that does not allow the use of any type of vehicle strike for predator hunting. Governor Mark Gordon, in response to this incident, stated, “Our office has received considerable communication about the actions of an individual involving a wolf that occurred earlier this winter in Sublette County. "I want to make my position on this absolutely clear. Cruelty to any wildlife is absolutely unacceptable. This is not the way anyone should treat any animal. I am outraged by this incident, just like thousands of Wyoming ranchers, farmers, sportsmen and sportswomen, and others around the state.” We would love to see him follow up this message with action for reform. We also believe that there should be an amendment to SF0026 - Animal abuse statutes - Wyoming Legislature clearly defining that any abuse to animals, including predators, would be considered animal abuse and be subject to a felony charge.

To this day, wolves still have a significant impact on ranchers' livelihood. That should not be unseen and protections should always be in place to properly compensate for any livestock losses. However, despite their bad wrap, wolves play a significant role in the ecosystem. Any animal abuse to them should be treated as such with proper punishments in place. We are facing a cultural issue if killing and torturing wolves has no punishment. We have an opportunity to make an impact on the future of wolves in Wyoming. To give a voice to the voiceless.

If you would like to get involved in protecting Wyoming’s gray wolves and addressing issues like the abuse in Daniel, WY, contact the officials listed below. If you’re concerned about Wyoming boycotts impacting your local economy, please contact the office of tourism.

- Brian Nesvik, Director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department: Brian.Nesvik@wyo.gov
- Mark Gordon, Wyoming’s Governor: governor@wyo.gov
- Wyoming Office of Tourism: 307-777-7777

Gray wolves are a representation of true wilderness in Wyoming. The wolf abuse in Daniel, WY has been a catalyst to promote the change Wyoming needs. Here is Wyoming’s opportunity to accept the call. Will you help ensure they answer?

Planning:

(Title): Unraveling Land Development Regulations

(Subheading): What You Need to Know

(Full blog post):

Land Development Regulations (LDRs) may sound like bureaucratic jargon, but they’re the backbone of shaping our community’s future in Teton County and the Town of Jackson. Think of them as the rulebook for development, rooted in our Comprehensive Plan – the blueprint for where we’re headed.

Why do LDRs matter now more than ever? Well, the easy plots for development are long gone. What’s left? Land perched on steep slopes, constrained by nature’s boundaries, or nestled in vital wildlife habitats.

Amending for Progress: What’s in Store?

- Why tweak the LDRs? Sometimes they’re not cutting it, or circumstances shift. And let’s face it, we’re evolving as a community.
- Who can propose changes? Anyone – from local officials to your next-door neighbor.

Current Community Amendments: Making Strides

- PRD Amendment: Balancing development with ecosystem stewardship? Count us in! This tweak would ensure that undevelopable land isn’t factored into density calculations. Plus, it tightens the reins on environmental impacts from transportation projects. Show your support on May 13th![b]
- Outdoor Reception Amendment: Good news! The Board of County Commissioners just greenlit a change to rein in massive outdoor events. No more sprawling receptions where they don’t belong. This move protects our rural areas and funnels festivities to more suitable spots.
- NRO Amendment: It’s about time! Our county’s natural resource and wildlife protection rules are due for a revamp. Stay tuned for your chance to weigh in.

Needed Community Amendments: Calling for Action

- Maximum Building Size Standards: Picture this – a colossal 300,000 square foot monster looming over our town. Yikes, right? Without size limits, developments like this could become the norm. Let’s tell our leaders: enough is enough! EMAIL YOUR COMMISSIONERS AND LET THEM KNOW, THIS DEVELOPMENT HAS NO PLACE IN JACKSON, WY.[c]
- Retaining Wall Standards: Retaining walls are a necessary evil in hillside development, but they can be wildlife barriers. The solution? Wildlife-friendly regulations. The Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance is on it – let’s make sure these amendments happen.

Staff Highlight:

(Title): Meet Carolyn Keefe

(Subheading): Communication and Outreach Manager

(Full blog post):

Carolyn Keefe
Born in MIssoula, Carolyn Keefe graduated from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Keefe studied photography, design, and creative writing. She believes that a talented creative can combine words, photographs, and design elements in such a way as to compel a boulder up a hill.
In 2012 a sense of adventure brought Keefe back to the mountains, where she now calls Driggs Idaho home. She has spent the last ten years working in marketing and communications for local business, nonprofits, and publications. She has honed her copywriting craft and adopted a passion for campaign strategy. A natural storyteller, Keefe loves to help others communicate their mission simply and effectively. In her new role of Communications and Outreach Manager, she looks forward to applying her skillset to enhance the efforts of the Conservation Alliance.

Keefe loves trail running long distances in bear country. Surviving and enjoying ultra-marathon feats emboldens her. She thinks she can do anything. She has not yet crafted a phrase that would oblige a boulder to roll up a hill, but her optimism persists.

Events:

Upcoming Events:

- Saturday, May 11th, 12-5pm: Ecofair, Center for the Arts Lawn
- Saturday, June 8th, 2pm: Snake River Fest, R Park
- June TBD: Volunteer Opportunity and Appreciation Party, location TBD
- June TBD: Stilson Event, location TBD
- August TBD: Summer Party and Coexistence Report Launch, location TBD
- September 7th, 9am: Old Bills, Town Square

[a]This is the SO WHAT of the post -- it is also the Daylighting of our Preferred site plan map.

And, I know it is hidden at the end of the post...

Let's use this map as the image on the email -- and maybe lead in other places as well to get it out there (thought there is one more version coming with a North arrow and a few other minor changes)

Would we want to reiterate the conclusion here at the start of the article or in the summary on the email:

"The installation of new wildlife crossings at Stilson in Wilson, Wyoming, represents a significant step forward in conservation efforts to maintain our iconic wildlife in Jackson Hole. By providing safe passage for animals across highways 22 and 390, these crossings are expected to reduce habitat fragmentation and the impact of roadways on wildlife.

To maximize the success of the new underpasses, we should remove barriers to animal movement, keeping an open 600 foot wildlife corridor, closing Beckely Parkway at night, and keeping other development out of this important wildlife area.

[b]Add details: The meeting on the 13th is with the planning commission it will then go to the board of County commissioners at one of their meetings in June. First letter should be submitted in support of the LDR amendments to the planning commission and then assuming its approved letters would be directed after May 13 towards commissioners. Or they ask could be to send a blanket letter to all involved. I will forward you an email from Jared Smith that outlines lot of the information and who to contact

[c]Add in Commissioner emails