Bearpaw Bay Fire Update #3

Bearpaw Bay Fire on Tuesday Afternoon, September 29

September 30, 2009

5:30 p.m. (MDT)

09-98
With the arrival of cooler temperatures and wetter weather on Wednesday, September 30, fire activity on the Bearpaw Bay Fire in Grand Teton National Park significantly decreased. Teton Interagency firefighters were able to successfully complete control actions on Tuesday to limit fire spread towards the east and into old-growth lodgepole pine forests. Fire personnel will continue to closely monitor the fire, especially the southeast flank, to ensure that it stays within the acceptable perimeter. The Bearpaw Bay Fire remains at 2,844 acres in size, and will again be primarily managed as a resource-benefit fire.

On Wednesday morning, firefighters from the Unified Fire Authority out of Salt Lake City and Teton Interagency fire personnel pulled fire hoses, pumps and other equipment from established fire lines and completed rehabilitation work on those lines in an effort to mitigate the potential impacts of recent fire suppression work. In addition, the Type I FireHawk helicopter, which provided air support during the past two days, was released to its home base in Boise, Idaho. One Teton Interagency fire engine will monitor ongoing fire activity into the weekend, or until further fire activity dictates.

The Spalding Bay Road, trail along the eastshore of Leigh Lake, backcountry campsites on Leigh, Bearpaw and Trapper lakes, and several lakeshore campsites along the west shore of Jackson Lake, will remain closed as a safety precaution until hazard trees (burned snags) can be removed.

Bearpaw Bay Fire

Started: August 30, 2009, by lightning
Estimated Size: 2,844 acres
Location: Approximately two miles northeast of North Jenny Lake Junction on the Teton Park Road, and west of Spalding Bay on Jackson Lake.
Overview: A lightning-caused fire, the Bearpaw Bay Fire began on August 30 and has been managed for resource benefits according to the park’s fire management plan. The fire was burning primarily in the 1981 Mystic Isle Fire area, but moved into old growth lodgepole forest late afternoon on September 25. It spread toward the Teton Park Road and the southern tip of Jackson Lake, causing fire managers to initiate suppression activities. The fire has remained within the approved area, and due to recent moisture, the fire is again being monitored and managed as a resource-benefit fire.
Recent Activity and Expectations: The Bearpaw Bay Fire will continue to burn until sufficient late season rain or snows extinguish it; however, recent moisture and cooler temperatures have reduced its activity.
Closures or Impacts to Visitors and Area Residents: The Spalding Bay Road, eastshore trail along Leigh Lake, backcountry campsites on Leigh, Bearpaw and Trapper lakes, and several lakeshore campsites along the west shore of Jackson Lake, all remain closed due to hazard trees and ongoing fire activity.
Fire Updates: For current fire information, go to http://www.tetonfires.com/ or visit the Teton Interagency Fire Web site at http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/index.html. For a map of the Bearpaw Bay Fire go to http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/information/current-fires/index.html.

Bearpaw Bay Fire Update #2

Bearpaw Bay Fire from Jackson Lake
photo courtesy of Clay James

September 28, 2009

5:30 p.m. (MDT)
09-97
Teton Interagency firefighters continued fire suppression on the southeast flank of the Bearpaw Bay Fire in Grand Teton National Park throughout Monday, September 28. The fire was mapped during a mid-morning flight with a portable Global Positioning System (GPS) unit and determined to be 2,844 acres.

Throughout Monday, fire managers again used one heavy helicopter (700-gallon capacity) to make water bucket drops on the southeast segment of the fire. Two fire engines (one from Sublette County and one from Grand Teton), as well as water tender from Grand Teton, continued to extinguish spot fires and hot spots along the Teton Park Road and Spalding Bay Road. Fire support from the Unified Fire Authority out of Salt Lake City and a Hot Shot crew from Carson City, Nevada continued to support firefighting activities as they have for the past two days. The Leigh Lake backcountry patrol cabin was partially wrapped in fire retardant material as a precaution; however, the fire did not reach the cabin. Fire suppression remains focused on the southeast flank of the fire to prevent it from advancing further east and into old growth lodgepole pine forests. Weather forecasts call for windy conditions on Tuesday, September 29, in advance of a cold front.

The eastshore trail along Leigh Lake is closed due to the proximity of the fire, as are several backcountry campsites on Leigh, Bearpaw and Trapper lakes, and the lakeshore campsites in the Spalding Bay area of Jackson Lake. The Teton Park Road is open and has remained open throughout the recent fire activity (with the exception of one hour on Friday evening, September 25).

Heavy smoke blanketing the Jackson Hole valley is the result of fires in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, as well as prescribed burns on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Individuals with impaired respiratory conditions and young children are advised to stay indoors to reduce exposure to smoke. People should avoid exercise or physical exertion during the next two days while heavy smoke exists.

Bearpaw Bay Fire
Started: August 30, 2009, by lightning
Estimated Size: 2,844 acres
Location: Approximately two miles northeast of North Jenny Lake Junction on the Teton Park Road, and west of Spalding Bay on Jackson Lake.
Overview: A lightning-caused fire, the Bearpaw Bay Fire began on August 30 and has been managed for resource benefits according to the park’s fire management plan. The fire was burning primarily in the 1981 Mystic Isle Fire area, but moved into old growth lodgepole forest late afternoon on September 25. It has remained within the approved area; however, firefighters are suppressing the southeast flank, near the southwestern shore of Spalding Bay, with an objective to limit any further spread to the east.
Recent Activity and Expectations: The Bearpaw Bay Fire was mapped using GPS at 2,844 acres on Monday, September 28. Weather forecasts call for winds out of the southwest on Tuesday.
Closures or Impacts to Visitors and Area Residents: The eastshore trail along Leigh Lake is closed due to the proximity of the fire, as are several backcountry campsites on Leigh, Bearpaw and Trapper lakes, and the lakeshore campsites in the Spalding Bay area of Jackson Lake. The Spalding Bay Road is closed.
Fire Updates: For current fire information, go to http://www.tetonfires.com/ or visit the Teton Interagency Fire Web site at http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/index.html. For a map of the Bearpaw Bay Fire go to http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/information/current-fires/index.html.

Bearpaw Bay Fire Update

Smoke column during active burning late Friday, September 25
Bearpaw Bay Fire, early Friday, September 25

September 27, 2009

3:00 p.m. (MDT)

09-96
Teton Interagency firefighters continued fire suppression on the southeast flank of the Bearpaw Bay Fire in Grand Teton National Park throughout Saturday afternoon and evening, September 26. The fire was mapped on Saturday afternoon with a portable Global Positioning System (GPS) unit and determined to be 1,500 acres in size.

On Sunday, September 27, fire managers again used one medium helicopter (300-gallon capacity) and one heavy helicopter (700-gallon capacity) to make water bucket drops on the southeast segment of the fire. Four fire engines (three from Teton County and one from Grand Teton), as well as one Teton County water tender, are staged at various points along the Teton Park Road to extinguish spot fires that may occur with expected afternoon winds. A Type II fire crew from Salt Lake City arrived on Saturday, as well as a Hot Shot crew from Carson City, Nevada; these firefighters will continue to suppress hotspots and establish fire lines around the southeast fire perimeter throughout the afternoon and evening in an effort to limit further growth to the east. Weather forecasts call for brisk 20-mph afternoon winds out of the southwest, shifting to northwest winds in the late afternoon.

The eastshore trail along Leigh Lake is closed due to the proximity of the fire, as are several backcountry campsites on Leigh, Bearpaw and Trapper lakes, and the lakeshore campsites in the Spalding Bay area of Jackson Lake. At this time, the Teton Park Road is open; however, fire activity may require temporary closures as a safety precaution.

Heavy smoke has blanketed the Jackson Hole valley during the last few days because of fires in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, as well as prescribed burns on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Individuals with impaired respiratory conditions and young children are advised to stay indoors to reduce exposure to smoke. People should avoid exercise or physical exertion during the next two days while heavy smoke exists.

Bearpaw Bay Fire

Started: August 30, 2009, by lightning
Estimated Size: 1,500 acres
Location: Approximately two miles northeast of North Jenny Lake Junction on the Teton Park Road, and west of Spalding Bay on Jackson Lake.
Overview: A lightning-caused fire, the Bearpaw Bay Fire began on August 30 and has been managed for resource benefits according to the park’s fire management plan. The fire was burning primarily in the 1981 Mystic Isle Fire area, but moved into old growth lodgepole forest late afternoon on September 25. It has remained within the approved area; however, firefighters are suppressing the southeast flank, near the southwestern shore of Spalding Bay, with an objective to limit any further spread to the east.
Recent Activity and Expectations: The Bearpaw Bay Fire was mapped using GPS at 1,500 acres on Saturday, September 27. Weather forecasts call for increased winds out of the southwest on Sunday.
Closures or Impacts to Visitors and Area Residents: The eastshore trail along Leigh Lake is closed due to the proximity of the fire, as are several backcountry campsites on Leigh, Bearpaw and Trapper lakes, and the lakeshore campsites in the Spalding Bay area of Jackson Lake. The Spalding Bay Road is closed, and the Teton Park Road may be closed as conditions warrant during Sunday.
Fire Updates: For current fire information, go to http://www.tetonfires.com/ or visit the Teton Interagency Fire Web site at http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/index.html. For a map of the Bearpaw Bay Fire go to http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/information/current-fires/index.html.

Bearpaw Bay Fire Increases

September 26, 2009
12:45 p.m. (MDT)
09-95
Teton Interagency firefighters began fire suppression activities on the southeast flank of the Bearpaw Bay Fire in Grand Teton National Park on Saturday morning, September 26, after brisk northwest winds on Friday evening pushed the fire 1.5 miles south toward the Teton Park Road. The Bearpaw Bay Fire has grown from 130 acres to about 350 acres in the past 24 hours.

Fire management officers called for one medium helicopter (300-gallon capacity) and two heavy helicopters (700-gallon capacity) to make water bucket drops on the southeast segment of the Bearpaw Bay Fire early Saturday. In addition to water-drops, four fire engines are patrolling the Teton Park Road to extinguish any spot fires that might occur with afternoon heating and increased winds. A Type II fire crew will arrive mid-day and begin to establish fire lines around the southeast perimeter of the fire. Weather forecasts call for brisk afternoon winds of 20- mph out of the southwest on Saturday with similar conditions predicted for Sunday, September 27.

A temporary closure of the Teton Park Road was imposed as a safety precaution due to heavy smoke for an hour on Friday evening. The eastshore trail along Leigh Lake is closed due to the proximity of the fire, as are several backcountry campsites on Leigh, Bearpaw and Trapper lakes, and the lakeshore campsites in the Spalding Bay area of Jackson Lake.

Heavy smoke has blanketed the Jackson Hole valley during the last few days because of fires in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, as well as prescribed burns on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Individuals with impaired respiratory conditions and young children are advised to stay indoors to reduce exposure to smoke. People should avoid exercise or physical exertion during the next two days while heavy smoke remains.

Bearpaw Bay Fire
Started: August 30, 2009
Estimated Size: 350+ acres
Location: Approximately two miles northeast of North Jenny Lake Junction on the Teton Park Road, and southeast of Bearpaw Bay on Jackson Lake.
Overview: The Bearpaw Bay Fire is a lightning-caused fire that began on August 30, and has been managed for resource benefits according the park’s fire management plan. The fire was burning primarily in the 1981 Mystic Isle Fire area, but moved into old growth lodgepole forest yesterday. It has remained within the approved area for a resource-benefit fire. Firefighters are suppressing the southeast flank, near the west shore of Spalding Bay, with an objective to limit any further spread to the east.
Recent Activity and Expectations: The Bearpaw Bay Fire has grown from 130 acres to about 350 acres in the past 24 hours. Weather forecasts call for increased winds out of the south/southwest on Saturday and Sunday.
Closures or Impacts to Visitors and Area Residents: The eastshore trail along Leigh Lake is closed due to the proximity of the fire, as are several backcountry campsites on Leigh, Bearpaw and Trapper lakes, and the lakeshore campsites in the Spalding Bay area of Jackson Lake. The Teton Park Road may be closed as conditions warrant during Saturday and Sunday.
Fire Updates: For current fire information, go to http://www.tetonfires.com/ or visit the Teton Interagency Fire Web site at http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/index.html. For a map of the Bearpaw Bay Fire go to http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/information/current-fires/index.html.

Hiker Falls to his Death on Teewinot

Aerial view of Teewinot Mountain

September 23, 2009

09-94
Grand Teton National Park rangers used the Teton interagency contract helicopter to locate and retrieve the body of a backcountry hiker who apparently fell to his death on Teewinot Mountain about
1 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22. Eliot Kalmbach, age 24, from Pennsylvania and his partner Jon Winiasz, age 23, of Vermilion, Ohio were traversing a steep slope on Teewinot when Kalmbach fell and tumbled approximately 300 feet and sustained fatal injuries. Because the two men only intended to hike and scramble, neither was wearing a helmet or carrying climbing gear.

Kalmbach and Winiasz arrived in Grand Teton a few days before the accident. After consulting with park rangers about various backcountry hiking and climbing possibilities, they hiked to Delta Lake on Sunday, September 20, and climbed the Southwest Couloir on Middle Teton on Monday. On Tuesday morning, they parked at the Lupine Meadows trailhead and hiked up a portion of the Apex Trail to reach and explore the east flank of Teewinot. During their excursion, they got off course and onto a more vertical slope than they intended, and Kalmbach accidentally fell while trying to scramble across technical terrain. After Kalmbach came to rest, Winiasz scrambled down to him and realized that his friend was unconscious, not breathing and without a pulse. Winiasz used Kalmbach’s cell phone to call 911 and the emergency call was transferred to Teton Interagency Dispatch Center at 1:28 p.m.

Park rangers summoned the contract helicopter that was already working in the vicinity, and used the ship to pinpoint the hikers’ location from the air. Rangers determined that no suitable landing spot was available from which they could stage a mountain-based rescue operation, so they conducted a short-haul mission from the park’s rescue cache at Lupine Meadows on the valley floor.

One ranger with emergency gear was inserted via short-haul into the accident site at 3:30 p.m. Upon arriving, he confirmed that Kalmbach was deceased. A second ranger was inserted with a rescue litter, and the two placed Winiasz into an evacuation suit for a short-haul flight to the Lupine Meadows rescue cache. The helicopter made a second flight at 4:30 p.m. to evacuate Kalmbach. Teton County Coroner Bob Campbell then met the rangers at Lupine Meadows to transport Kalmbach by vehicle to Jackson, Wyoming.

Celebrate America’s Best Idea: National Parks

Oxbow Bend Fall Splendor

photo by Heather Voster, NPS

September 21, 2009
09-93
In celebration of the premiere broadcast of the new Ken Burns film, The National Parks: America’s Best Idea, Grand Teton National Park, Grand Teton Lodge Company, WyomingPBS and WETA Television, and the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival are pleased to announce a co-sponsored community event to be held on Sunday evening, September 27. Please join family, friends, neighbors and other national park fans for a viewing of Episode One of the 12-hour, 6-part series about national parks created by documentary filmmaker Ken Burns and his partner Dayton Duncan.

This public event will be held in the Explorer Room at Jackson Lake Lodge. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with a pre-reception cash bar and Jackson Lake Lodge’s signature treats for purchase. Grand Teton Lodge Company will also provide popcorn during the movie. The premiere viewing will follow at 7 p.m. with a Blu-ray high-definition disc played on a large-format television screen, offering viewers an unprecedented visual experience. Seating will be limited, and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors will open to the Explorer Room at 6:30 p.m.; those planning to attend should come early.

Burns and Duncan, co-producer and script writer, began work on their documentary film over six years ago. The filmmakers wanted to capture what they believe to be a story of an idea as uniquely American, and just as radical, as the Declaration of Independence. This new series follows in the tradition of Burns’ exploration of other American inventions, such as baseball and jazz, and it weaves together a fascinating tale of how the most exceptional places in our Nation were preserved for everyone—not for just royalty or the rich—to experience and enjoy.

Wallace Stegner called our national parks “the best idea we ever had,” and it was this sentiment that inspired the title for the series. The filmmakers and their production company, Florentine Films, visited both Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks several times in order to capture stories and scenic footage during the making of their documentary. The fruits of their labor have grown into an inspiring and educational journey into the history of the making of our National Park System.

Repair Work on the Snake River Bridge at Moose

September 18, 2009
09-92
Minor repair work will be underway on the Snake River Bridge
at Moose, in Grand Teton National Park, beginning Monday, September 21. This project will require one-lane closures and traffic delays of up to 15 minutes while crews repari and paint portions of the bridge and its steel railings and girders. The work will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and continue until mid-October.

Local residents, park visitors and commercial services drivers should plan for minimal travel delays between Dornan’s and the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center.

Flaggers will manage the traffic flow and make every attempt to minimize any inconvenience that this bridge work may cause; however, motorists are advised to allow for extra time in getting to their destination.

In order to reduce congestion and improve safety, parking near the Snake River Bridge will not be permitted while construction work is underway.

Prescribed-burns Planned in Grand Teton

Slash piles from fuels reduction work
will be burned late fall/early winter

September 17, 2009
09-91
Teton interagency fire personnel and Grand Teton National Park natural resource managers are planning a 182-acre prescribed burn as part of a 4,000-acre native rangeland restoration project. The Elbo West Prescribed Fire will cover an area on Antelope Flats that lies southeast of the Ditch Creek Road and Teton Science Schools’ Kelly campus.

This project involves a multi-stage effort to convert old pastureland to native vegetation as directed by the 2007 Bison and Elk Management Plan for the National Elk Refuge and Grand Teton National Park. The Elbo West burn unit was an irrigated hayfield prior to the 1970s. Despite a decades-long recovery time, non-native grasses—and a host of noxious weeds—still dominate this area.

Another project in Grand Teton involves a 208-acre unit located on Signal Mountain. The Signal Mountain Prescribed Fire would mitigate a potential threat to life, and damage to property, from wildfire by reducing accumulated vegetation and downed trees and creating a mosaic of burned and unburned areas. Reducing the density and continuity of fuels (trees and underbrush) using prescribed fire would increase options for wildfire containment and provide for better protection of Signal Mountain Lodge, the Chapel of the Sacred Heart and the Brinkerhoff Cabin in the event of a wildfire. Because of higher than normal fuel moisture this year, the Signal Mountain Prescribed Fire may not take place this fall; however, fire managers have a plan ready in case weather and fuel conditions become favorable to meet project objectives.

Interagency fire personnel will also burn several “slash piles” in the park after early winter snowfall occurs. The primary target areas are Death Canyon, Ditch Creek and Flagg Ranch. These piles are mostly in developed areas where fire crews have removed dead wood and brush from the forest floor to increase firefighter and public safety and to lower the risk of losing structures in the event of a wildfire. Firefighters place the slash in tepee-shaped piles and let them cure for a year before burning them.

Prescribed fire ignitions will proceed only when favorable weather and fire behavior conditions exist. Smoke will be evident during the day of the burn, and may persist for several days after—especially in mountain valleys during early morning and evening hours. Local residents and visitors should exercise caution in the vicinity of the prescribed fires. Minimal traffic restrictions may occur to allow for public and firefighter safety, and fire equipment access.

Celebrate Nat'l Public Lands Day & Volunteer

Teton Range framed by fall colors

September 15, 2009
09-90
In recognition of the 16th annual National Public Lands Day, Grand Teton National Park will waive entrance fees (including commercial tour fees) on Saturday, September 26. National Public Lands Day also serves as the nation’s largest volunteer undertaking: an opportunity for individuals and communities to improve the natural and cultural treasures that Americans enjoy and value. As part of the 2009 event, Grand Teton is calling for a “Grand Day of Public Service for America’s Best Idea: the National Parks” by inviting volunteers to join park staff in accomplishing several hands-on projects.

Anyone volunteering at Grand Teton on September 26 will be invited to begin their day of service by viewing a 45-minute video by documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, titled This is America, at 8 a.m. in the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. After the film, volunteers will help with projects such as the rehabilitation and revegetation of Schwabacher’s Landing on the Snake River, replacement of wooden benches at the Jenny Lake campground circle, exhibit cleaning at the Discovery Center, and various fence removal projects across the park. The day of service culminates with a picnic lunch at 1 p.m. sponsored by the Grand Teton Association—the park’s non-profit partner of 72 years. To sign up for this community volunteer day, please call the Craig Thomas Discovery Center at 307.739.3391.

Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott invites members of the Jackson Hole community to join park staff in making the 2009 National Public Lands Day especially memorable. “September is such a wonderful time to enjoy the beauty of Grand Teton and its wildlife,” said Superintendent Scott. “Thanks to the new Ken Burns documentary film highlighting national parks, this year promises to be an even more compelling time to visit any one of the 391 national park units, to get involved, and show your personal appreciation through volunteering.”

Episode one of Ken Burns’ 6-part documentary series—titled The National Parks: America’s Best Idea— is scheduled to air on WyomingPBS on Sunday evening, September 27.

National Public Lands Day began in 1994 with a purpose to increase awareness of the value of all public lands, to foster shared stewardship of America’s national resources, and to encourage people to volunteer their time. Federal land agencies have created partnerships with private individuals and citizen groups in an effort to improve, restore or enhance public lands and to provide opportunities for education, outdoor recreation, and enjoyment. Eight federal agencies and many state and local partners, plus dozens of non-profit organizations, several national sponsors, and tens of thousands of individuals are expected to participate in this annual day of caring for our shared lands. Last year, 120,000 volunteers participated in projects across the country; many dedicated individuals and organizations are expected to help this year.

National Public Lands Day is the only time that entrance fees are systematically waived on public lands across America. In addition to national park units, fees will be waived at other land management sites, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Forest Service areas. In addition to National Public Lands Day, United States veterans are admitted free to national parks each year on Veteran’s Day in November.

Rangers Charge Two for Attempted Poaching and Other Violations

September 11, 2009
09-89
Grand Teton National Park rangers arrested one man and cited another on Thursday, September 10, during an investigation of an attempted poaching of a bull elk in the park. Ryan Palmer, age 25, and his 32-year-old brother Tracy Palmer, both residents of Rawlins, Wyoming, were cited for resource violations, drug violations, and weapons violations. They will each face a mandatory appearance in federal court for multiple charges.

About 2 a.m. on Thursday, Ryan Palmer was driving his Chevy truck down Highway 26/89/191 near the Snake River Overlook when a Teton County deputy sheriff stopped him for swerving in the road. The deputy sheriff performed an investigation for alcohol-related violations, and consequently cited Palmer for possession of an open container. During the investigation, the deputy sheriff also learned that Ryan’s brother, Tracy, had been let off near the Triangle X Ranch in pursuit of a bull elk with a bow and arrow. The deputy sheriff notified the Teton Interagency Dispatch Center, and park rangers responded to both locate Tracy and conduct an interview of Ryan in the investigation of a possible wildlife poaching. During the roadside interview with Ryan, other violations were discovered; as a result of the evidence, rangers arrested Ryan and took him into custody.

Rangers discovered that the Palmer brothers had driven to Jackson Hole to hunt elk on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. In the early hours of Thursday morning, the brothers decided to spotlight wildlife—an illegal activity in Grand Teton National Park. They spotted a bull elk with its harem of cows about one mile south of Triangle X Ranch, and armed with a bow and quiver of arrows, Tracy got out of the vehicle to shoot the animal. Ryan apparently drove on down the highway after seeing the deputy sheriff’s patrol car, leaving his brother behind in the brush.

After a systematic search, park rangers eventually located Tracy about 9:30 in the morning as he emerged from the underbrush and approached the road in an effort to hitch a ride. Tracy Palmer was subsequently charged with illegally spotlighting, discharging of a weapon in a national park, and attempting the illegal take of wildlife; he was cited and released.

During the interview of Ryan, evidence of other illegal activity was discovered; rangers found illegal drugs (methamphetamine) and paraphernalia, as well as several loaded firearms in his vehicle. Ryan Palmer was charged with illegally spotlighting, possession of drugs, and illegal possession of loaded firearms, in addition to the citation he received from the deputy sheriff for possession of an open container. Ryan is being held in the Teton County jail pending a more serious charge for felony possession of firearms.

Rangers later returned to the area of the possible poaching and searched for evidence of blood or an animal carcass, but none was found. At this time, it appears that Tracy missed his intended target; however, the investigation is ongoing.

Law enforcement officers from the Teton County Sheriff’s Office and the Jackson Hole Police Department were instrumental in the apprehension of these two brothers. Their assistance to park rangers serves as another great example of the cooperative support that local law enforcement agencies provide to one another throughout the greater Jackson Hole area.

Grand Teton to Host America’s Best Idea Events

September 10, 2009
09-88
Over the next several weeks, Grand Teton National Park will highlight the significance of national parks and their importance to our Nation’s rich heritage by offering several special programs in advance of the television broadcast on WyomingPBS of Ken Burns’ new documentary titled, National Parks: America’s Best Idea. These programs are free and open to the public.

September 12: Old Bill’s Fun Run. Join park ranger naturalists for fun, educational activities at Grand Teton Association’s booth during the community event on the Jackson Town Square. For more information, phone the Jenny Lake Visitor Center at 307.739.3392.

September 14-18: Untold Stories Film Festival. Watch selections from Ken Burns’ Florentine Films that highlight diverse groups who have been instrumental in the creation of America’s national parks. Viewings occur daily in the Craig Thomas Discovery Center at
10 a.m. and in Colter Bay Visitor Center at 4 p.m. For details on these films, call the Colter Bay VC at 307.739.3594 or the Craig Thomas Center at 307.739.3399. Films include:
· City Kids in National Parks
· Manzanar: “Never Again”
· Mount Rushmore: Telling America’s Stories
· San Antonio Missions: Keeping History Alive
· Yosemite’s Buffalo Soldiers

September 17: Nature Journaling and Sketching. Join rangers at the Laurance Rockefeller Preserve to learn about journaling techniques and how to make sketches of natural objects. All experience levels are welcome, but space is limited; to reserve a spot, call the LSR Preserve Center at 307.739.3654.

September 24: Book Club Discussion. Attend a fireside conversation on "Creating the National Parks: the Missing Years" by Horace Albright & Marion Albright Schenk at the Laurance Rockefeller Preserve Center’s Resource Room from 4-6 p.m. For more information, phone the LSR Preserve Center at 307.739.3654.

September 26: A Grand Day of Public Service for America's Best Idea: the National Parks Join park staff for a public viewing of This is America, a 45-minute film by Ken Burns, followed by volunteer projects (fence removal on Antelope Flats, reduction of social trails on LSR Preserve & other trails rehab projects, painting projects, etc.) The day of service culminates with a picnic sponsored by the Grand Teton Association. The film debut starts at 8 a.m. at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose, and the picnic will conclude about 2 p.m. To sign up for this community volunteer day event, please call the Craig Thomas Discovery Center at 307.739.3399.

Closing Dates for Visitor Services in GTNP

September 10, 2009
09-87
Grand Teton National Park's facility operations will make the annual transition from fall to winter season during the next few weeks. The following dates reflect the closing dates that will occur during September and October.

SEPTEMBER CLOSURES
Campgrounds
Lizard Creek: September 1 (closed)
Flagg Ranch: September 20 (12 noon)
Jenny Lake: September 27 (11 am)
Colter Bay: September 27 (11 am)
Ranger Stations & Visitor Centers
Flagg Ranch Info Station: September 7 (closed)
Jenny Lake Ranger Station: September 20 (5 pm)
Jenny Lake Visitor Center: September 27 (4:30 pm)
LSR Preserve Center: September 27 (5 pm)

OCTOBER CLOSURES
Campgrounds
Gros Ventre: October 9 (11 am)
Signal Mountain: October 18 (11 am)
Ranger Stations & Visitor Centers
Colter Bay Visitor Center: October 12 (5 pm)
Entrance Stations
Granite Canyon: October 31 (5 pm)
Moose: October 31 (5 pm)
Moran: October 31 (5 pm)
Road Closures
Moose-Wilson Road: October 31 (evening)
Teton Park Road: October 31 (evening)

CONCESSIONER LODGING CLOSURES
Colter Bay Village: September 27 (11 am)
Flagg Ranch: September 28 (Noon)
Jackson Lake Lodge: October 4 (11 am)
Jenny Lake Lodge: October 11 (Noon)
Signal Mountain Lodge: October 18 (11 am)
Triangle X Ranch: October 31

For detailed information on closures, please call 307.739.3300, or consult the park newspaper, Teewinot, at http://www.nps.gov/.

The winter operation schedule will be announced in December.

Rangers Rescue Stranded Boaters from Snake River

September 4, 2009
09-86
Grand Teton National Park rangers rescued two stranded boaters from the Bourbon Street Channel of the Snake River today, September 4, at approximately 3:45 p.m. A boatman and his partner apparently flipped their dory (drift boat) while floating the side channel and were unable to right their craft. One man was stranded atop the boat, which was lodged against the root-ball of a half submerged snag in the channel; the other man was able to get to the riverbank. Neither of the two men was wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident.

Teton Interagency Dispatch Center received a cell phone call at 2:00 p.m. from a passing boater that reported seeing a man who was stranded in the river channel and clinging to the keel of his upturned boat. Park rangers launched two rescue rafts from the Moose Landing, while additional park staff drove to a remote river access point and approached the location on foot. In addition, Teton County Search and Rescue personnel launched a motorboat from the Wilson Landing, located 12 miles downstream. The rangers on foot were not able to reach the stranded boater and instructed him to stay atop his dory until rescue boats could get to him by water. Rangers reached the stranded boatman, safely transferred him to the rescue raft and floated him to a downstream landing. His partner was also transported to safety.

The identities of the two men have not been reported at this time.

Increased August Visitation Recorded for GTNP

September 3, 2009
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Recreational visits to Grand Teton National Park during the 2009 summer season showed a notable increase for the second consecutive month (July and August), over visitation numbers for the same months in 2008. A total of 568,122 visitors were recorded during August of 2009 compared with 527,256 visitors in August of 2008, making a 7.75% increase in visitation.

Grand Teton’s July 2009 visitation numbers showed an increase of 5.91% over visitation totals for July of 2008. Although the year-to-date, total visitation is down a slight .81%, the increased numbers of visitors during July and August are encouraging. “Given the economic concerns across America, these visitation numbers are promising,” said Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott. “We believe that families and individuals look to our national parks for an economical, value-packed, quality vacation. In addition, visitors know that national parks are special places with the capacity to enrich our lives and provide education, enjoyment, and adventure.”

The month of September affords one of the most enjoyable times to visit Grand Teton National Park. With spectacular autumn colors on display and exciting wildlife activity to watch, it’s a truly special season in which to visit the park. Several free, ranger-led programs, along with many concessioner-operated activities, are available for fall visitors to Grand Teton. For a list of these activities, visit the park’s Web site at www.npg.gov/grte or go to the following URL:
http://gtnpnews.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2009-09-03T09%3A55%3A00-06%3A00.

Second Lightning-caused Fire near Jackson Lake

September 3, 2009
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Teton interagency firefighters will monitor—and manage for resource benefit—a second lightning-caused fire in Grand Teton National Park. The Bearpaw Bay Fire likely ignited during the passing of the same thunderstorm on Sunday, August 30, that also started the Third Creek Fire. This new fire is located one-half mile southeast of Bearpaw Bay on Jackson Lake. Although reported as a single tree fire on Wednesday afternoon, it grew to 2.5 acres by evening and produced smoke that was visible from several locations in the park and across Jackson Hole.

The Bearpaw Bay Fire is located at the northern edge of an area that burned in 1981 during the Mystic Isle Fire. Prevailing winds will push the fire toward the west shore of Jackson Lake.

The Third Creek Fire, also near Jackson Lake, has grown to .9 of an acre in size. It has burned a small grove of trees and a grassy meadow area; however, the fire has spread to the creek bank, which may limit its growth.

No public closures are in effect for trails or lakeshore campsites in the vicinities of the Bearpaw Bay or Third Creek fires.

The current fire danger rating for Grand Teton National Park and the Bridger-Teton National Forest is “High.”

For local fire information, please visit the Teton Interagency Fire Web site at http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/index.html, or go to http://www.tetonfires.com/. For a map and additional information on the Bearpaw Bay and Third Creek fires, go to
http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/information/current-fires/index.html.

Ranger-led Programs during September

Autumn foliage adds a splash of color to the park's landscape

September 2, 2009
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To celebrate the special nature of autumn in Grand Teton National Park, a variety of programs will be offered beginning Tuesday, September 8. These ranger-led activities provide visitors with opportunities to learn about geology, history, and wildlife while enjoying fall colors and the seasonal antics of park animals. The 2009 fall schedule includes:

• Inspiration Point Hike, a 2.5-hour hike to Hidden Falls and a scenic overlook above Jenny Lake, 9:30 a.m. daily. Check in at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center. Boat ride costs $10.00 for adults (roundtrip).
• Explore the Preserve Hike, a 2.5-hour hike to Phelps Lake to experience the pristine setting of the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, 9:30 a.m. daily. Reservations recommended. Call 307.739.3654.
• Map Chat, a 30-minute talk about geology, park wildlife, and the stories behind the scenery, 11:30 a.m. daily at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center fireplace. Wheelchair accessible.
• Teton Highlights, a 30-minute travel planner, 11 a.m. daily in Colter Bay Visitor Center auditorium. Wheelchair accessible.
• Autumn at the Preserve, a chat about fall changes for wildlife and plants, 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily on the porch of the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center. Wheelchair accessible.
• Walk into the Past, a 45-minute stroll around Menor's Ferry historic district near park headquarters at Moose, 1:30 p.m. daily through September 15 from Menor’s Ferry General Store. Wheelchair accessible.
• Building Green, a 30-minute talk about the innovative design and sustainable features of the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center, 3 p.m. daily at the LSR Preserve Center. Wheelchair accessible.
• Museum Grand Tour, a 45-minute tour of the David T. Vernon Indian Arts collection, 3 p.m. daily in the Colter Bay Visitor Center and Indian Arts Museum.
• Wildlife Caravan, a 3-hour wildlife auto-tour, 5-8 p.m. daily from the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. Limited to 10 vehicles. Reservations are required; call 739.3399 or stop by a visitor center to secure a spot. Dress warmly and bring binoculars and/or spotting scopes.
• Wildlife Watch at Oxbow Bend, a 90-minute wildlife watch offered at 6 p.m. daily through September 25 at Oxbow Bend Scenic Turnout. Bring binoculars, cameras and questions. Wheelchair accessible.
• Jenny Lake Twilight Talk, 45-minute ranger talk, 6:30 p.m., Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at Jenny Lake Campground Circle.
• Signal Mountain Campfire Program, 45-minute ranger talk, 6:30 p.m., Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Signal Mountain Campground Amphitheater.

Most of the fall programs will be offered through September 27; however, the schedule is subject to change. For weekly updates on programs, or further information on any of the listed activities—as well as information on special programs being offered throughout September—please call the Craig Thomas Discovery Center at 307.739.3399, the Colter Bay Visitor Center at 307.739.3594 or the LSR Preserve Center at 307.739.3654.

The Craig Thomas, Colter Bay, Jenny Lake and Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve visitor centers are open daily during the month of September. The Jenny Lake and Rockefeller Preserve visitor centers both close for the 2009 season on September 27, and the Colter Bay Visitor Center closes on October 12. The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center is open year-round.

Lightning-Caused Fire in Willow Flats Area

September 2, 2009
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Teton interagency firefighters will monitor the activity of a new lightning-caused fire in Grand Teton National Park and manage it for resource benefit. The Third Creek Fire started during the passage of a thunderstorm on Sunday afternoon, August 30, in the Willow Flats area northwest of Jackson Lake Dam. The one-tenth acre fire is burning in a moist willow thicket, just north of the high-water line on Jackson Lake and about one-half mile east of the Hermitage Point Trail.

Smoke from the Third Creek Fire was visible yesterday from points along the Teton Park Road, as well as from Jackson Lake Lodge and Signal Mountain Lodge. The fire may periodically produce noticeable smoke for the next several days due to afternoon heating and increased winds.

No trail closures are in effect because of the Third Creek Fire.

The current fire danger rating for Grand Teton National Park and the Bridger-Teton National Forest is “High.”

For local fire information, visit the Teton Interagency Fire Web site at http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/index.html, or use the redirect from http://www.tetonfires.com/. For a map and information on the Third Creek Fire, go to
http://gacc.nifc.gov/egbc/dispatch/wy-tdc/information/current-fires/index.html.