May 2, 2011
11-27
Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott announced today that an environmental assessment/assessment of effect document is being prepared to analyze a range of project alternatives for replacement of a wastewater system near park headquarters in Moose, Wyoming. The project will also address critical deficiencies in the water system serving the Moose area. The National Park Service requests that public comments on the Moose Wastewater and Water System EA/AE projects be submitted no later than June 2, 2011.
The current wastewater treatment plant at Moose was built more than 50 years ago; it is both challenging and expensive to operate because of its outdated design and antiquated technology. The plant is nearing its daily capacity, and treatment demands are expected to increase in the future. In addition, the wastewater treatment plant is located less than 200 feet from the banks of the Snake River. Any malfunctions could potentially affect the Snake River, which was designated as a wild and scenic river in 2009.
Identified options include replacement of the existing wastewater treatment plant with a larger, modern facility located further away from the Snake River, or construction of a 12-mile-long buried pipeline that would transport wastewater to the Town of Jackson’s secondary treatment facility.
The 50-year-old water system at Moose is too small to reliably meet current needs. In addition, the underground pipes leak, and often lose more water than they deliver. Multiple options are being considered to upgrade the water system’s wells, pipes, pumps, and storage tanks.
Issues to be addressed in the Moose Wastewater and Water System EA/AE will include public health and safety, water quality, park operations and efficiencies, floodplain capacity, wildlife and cultural resources, and visitor experience.
Public comments can be made online on the National Park Service Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) site at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/. Additional information on these projects is also available on the PEPC site. Comments may also be sent to the following address: Moose Wastewater and Water System EA/AE, Grand Teton National Park, P.O. Drawer 170, Moose, Wyoming 83012.
