Jackson Hole Radio

Covering the Tetons since 1965

Covering the Tetons since 1965

Conservation group challenges State on “glamping” in Jackson Hole

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A local advocacy group says the Wyoming needs to get its poop in a group about a development that is building “glamping” in Jackson Hole

The conservation group, Protect Our Water Jackson Hole, or POWJH, filed a petition with the District Court challenging the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality for authorizing a commercial wastewater facility the “glamping” operation being constructed on State Trust Land on the Westbank.

They are contending the septic system was built outside the WDEQ’s water quality regulations, without oversight or required county permits.

  • June 24, 2022, Office of State Lands and Investments issues  temporary permit for a geodesic dome hotel.
  • Late summer, 2022, Basecamp, LLC completes excavation and clearing of site.
  • October 6, 2022, WDEQ authorizes the construction and operation of a commercial wastewater system.
  • Mid October, 2022, construction of commercial wastewater system.
  • October 28, 2022, WDEQ invites public comment on commercial wastewater system.
  • November 29, 2022, POWJH files petition with 9th Judicial District Court for review of agency action.

Oversight needed on septic system.

Brad Nielson, Protect Our Water’s chairman, says the serious gap in oversight and regulation of “glamping” in Jackson Hole must be addressed immediately.

The geodesic dome hotel complex near Fish Creek is being built under a temporary use permit from the Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investments by Utah based Basecamp Hospitality, LLC.

“Glamping” in Jackson Hole could pollute Class 1 waterway.

Meghan Quinn, is the Executive Director of POWJH. She said the addition of another source of pollution at the headwaters of Fish Creek is unacceptable.

Sean O’Malley, former Teton County, Wyoming Engineer, said the development could further degrade water quality in Fish Creek. Additionally, he said the State should consider revoking the existing permits until the operation is complies with appropriate regulations.

The complaint is one of many that Teton County officials and residents are making against the development.

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