Caribou Targhee Board supports Grand Targhee Resort proposal with specific modifications

In a recent meeting held on June 9, 2025, Teton County officials discussed their response to the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) concerning the Grand Targhee Resort. The meeting highlighted the board's preference for Alternative 3, which advocates for no boundary expansion of the resort, while suggesting modifications to enhance safety and community integration.

Key among the board's recommendations is the collaboration between Caribou-Targhee National Forest and Grand Targhee Resort on avalanche mitigation outside resort boundaries, without expanding the special use permit. Additionally, the board expressed a strong preference for dining facilities to be located on private lands at the base of the mountain rather than within the resort's special use permit area.

Commissioners emphasized the importance of addressing community concerns in their comments, particularly regarding transportation and the potential impacts of increased visitor numbers. They noted that the current parking situation is inadequate and called for improvements in transit options to accommodate the anticipated growth in visitors.

The discussion also touched on the need for a clear structure in the comment letter to the Forest Service. Commissioners suggested separating the letter into distinct sections: one addressing inadequacies in the DEIS analysis, another highlighting positive aspects of the proposal, and a final section detailing substantive comments regarding boundary expansion and service locations.

The board acknowledged the importance of presenting a balanced view, recognizing both the potential benefits of the resort's development—such as improved trail networks and family-friendly activities—and the need for thorough analysis of environmental and community impacts. They agreed that the letter should reflect the community's values and expectations, as outlined in various local plans.

As the meeting concluded, officials aimed to finalize the letter by the end of the week to meet the public comment deadline of June 20. This proactive approach underscores Teton County's commitment to ensuring that development aligns with community needs and environmental stewardship.