Outfitter raises safety concerns at South Park boat ramp; county agrees to accelerate in‑river work

An outfitter and river operator urged the Teton County commissioners on Aug. 18 to accelerate short‑term repairs at the South Park boat ramp after changing river flows made the ramp unsafe or difficult to use.

Bud Chatham, speaking for Dave Hanson Whitewater at Snake River Park, told the board that the South Park Boat Ramp "needs some love" and asked for short‑term fixes before the end of the season as river levels fell. Chatham said he had discussed options with Parks and Recreation staff and forwarded suggestions by email.

County parks staff (Mr. Florence) told commissioners the county can mobilize to move in‑river gravel sooner than previously planned and do the plank extension work later in September to save mobilization costs. "We can move up the time frame to accelerate the dredging process and do the plank work later," Mr. Florence said. He said the county has budgeted for the work and that combining mobilizations was the initial plan only to save money.

Commissioners welcomed the short‑term action and asked for a later fall review of the Snake River management program revenue and expenditures so outfitters can see how fees are used. Commissioner Carlin asked for an accounting of outfitter fee revenue and spending and suggested a three‑year update meeting to evaluate the river management program.

The board agreed to proceed with an accelerated in‑river gravel operation to improve ramp function and to return with a program update later in the year; no additional formal vote was recorded.