Teton County in severe drought

Teton County is facing a record low water year, while seeing a record year for water use. The Teton Conservation District, says the county needs to limit wasteful water consumption for landscaping and within the home. In a news release, the district points out that the western third of the United States is experiencing drought, and while Teton County isn’t experiencing worst case “Exceptional Drought” conditions like the desert southwest, the county is in “Severe Drought”.
But what does that mean? Severe Drought conditions are defined by areas experiencing poor pasture conditions; overgrazing is reported; hay is scarce; producers are selling cattle; dust increases; trees and vegetation are stressed; water pressure is low; and, well levels decline. This tracks with what we are seeing in Teton County. By early April 2021, 100% of Teton County, Wyoming was classified as being in drought, and in mid-July, all portions of Teton County were upgraded to Severe Drought.

Jackson Hole Radio