Permits considered to ease crowding on SF Snake River

FISHING — It’s no secret that the South Fork of the Snake River flowing out of the Grand Tetons region is a hit with floaters, anglers and especially as a float-fishing destination.

Unfortunately, the wide appeal is having an impact on a good thing, forcing officials to look for alternatives to maintain the quality of the experience.  More than 300,000 anglers, campers, hikers, boaters and other recreationists use the South Fork each year.

BLM fields complaints about overcrowding on S. Fork of Snake River
After receiving a number of complaints about overcrowding on the South Fork of the Snake River in Idaho, the Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment about a number of solutions, including a permit system. Officials said the solution will be driven by the comments received.

The South Fork Snake flows 66 miles across southeastern Idaho through high mountain valleys, rugged canyons, and broad flood plains to its confluence with the Henry’s Fork near Menan Buttes.  Since 1985, the river has been eligible for inclusion in the nation’s Wild and Scenic River System.

The South Fork supports the largest riparian cottonwood gallery forest in the West. The river also supports the largest native cutthroat fishery outside of Yellowstone National Park.  The corridor is also home for an impressive array of other wildlife including moose, deer, elk, mountain goats, mountain lions, black bears, bobcats, coyotes, river otter, beaver, fox, and mink.