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