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Pinedale Online > News > September 2008 > Emergency Closure of Whitewater Section of the Snake River
Emergency Closure of Whitewater Section of the Snake River
by Bridger-Teton National Forest
September 1, 2008

(Jackson) – The Jackson Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest has temporarily closed the stretch of the Snake River between West Table Boat Ramp and Sheep Gulch Boat Ramp due to a large tree wedged across the river. The tree has blocked more than 80 percent of the river channel and has resulted in one flipped boat as of this morning. "No injuries haveresulted from the obstructed river channel thus far, and we’d like to keep it that way," said Jackson District Ranger Dale Deiter. Due to public safety concerns the District Ranger has closed this whitewater stretch until the tree can be removed. "We hope to get this addressed as soon as possible," said Deiter. "We don’t take closing the river lightly, but we must put safety at the forefront of our decision," said River Manager David Cernicek.

The Bridger-Teton will be assisted by the Star Valley Search and Rescue (SAR) volunteers as they attempt to remove this river hazard. "We are certainly grateful for the Star Valley SAR volunteers that are willing to give up their holiday to help the Forest and the visitors out with this operation," said Cernicek. Presently, Star Valley SAR is on their way to the blockage with their jet boat and trained operators to help position the Forest Service sawyer crew for removal of the tree. The sawyers are part of the Forest Service firefighting crew and are trained in removing hazardous trees.

The blockage is just below Taco Hole at the top of the S-turns about 1-mile below the West Table Boat Ramps. The scenic sections of the Snake Riverremain open and unaffected by this temporary closure. "We appreciate everyone’s understanding," said Deiter. "We will announce immediately when the river is reopened," he said.


Pinedale Online > News > September 2008 > Emergency Closure of Whitewater Section of the Snake River

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