Letter in support of Nutrient-Pathogen Waiver Request for Sky Mtn Ranch
October 3, 2017
Teton County Planning & Zoning Commission
150 Courthouse Drive
Driggs, Idaho 83422
Re: Nutrient-Pathogen Study Waiver for Sky Mountain Ranch
Dear Commissioners:
I am writing in support of the Nutrient-Pathogen waiver request for the Prometierra property at Sky Mountain Ranch. After consultation with the property owner and Friends of the Teton River (FTR), I have found the request is supportable for the following reasons:
- The proposed density is less than 1 unit per 20 acres, the open space of which is to be protected through a conservation easement;
- The proposed lots are located on an upland area historically planted in barley;
- The proposed plat appears to have a 300’ separation zone from Drake Creek; and
- Well testing data conducted by FTR near the site has shown no detectable concentration of Nutrient-Pathogens in the area.
On a broader note, I am hopeful that the county can overhaul its Nutrient-Pathogen Ordinance in order to utilize data collected over the last 4-8 years by FTR and other organizations. Though FTR does not endorse individual applications, they have expressed a willingness to work with Teton County to establish a more streamlined and targeted approach toward groundwater protection. Valley Advocates is more than happy to facilitate this effort.
Respectfully submitted,
Shawn W. Hill
Executive Director