Director Of Advocacy

Description:

POWJH was initially formed as Friends of Fish Creek (FOFC) in 2014. Our work as FOFC revealed that the effects of nutrient pollution evident in Fish Creek extend far beyond the Westbank of the Snake River, seriously threatening water quality and aquatic systems throughout Jackson Hole. Water pollution in our seemingly pristine valley comes from multiple sources that threaten serious damage to the environment, human health, and economy across Teton County, Wyoming. Our board and staff have a proven history of aggressive thinking and accomplishment.

What we do

Our priorities include but are not limited to the following:

● Support the implementation of the 2024 Teton County Water Quality Management Plan

● Drive the process to restore water quality and aquatic habitat in Fish Creek through development of TMDLs and/or a local watershed management plan

● Advocate for the expansion of sewer line infrastructure and septic system connections

● Push for state-of-the-art wastewater treatment methods—to stay ahead of capacity needs while improving outputs—at the Jackson municipal wastewater treatment facility and other wastewater treatment facilities in the valley

● Support the development of regional wastewater management authorities and water and sewer districts where needed

● Ensure that all residents and visitors have safe drinking water by developing effective aquifer protection strategies and enhanced regulation of public water systems

● Develop improved septic system regulations, public water system protections, and land development regulations that protect surface and groundwater quality.

● Research and promote funding programs to assist property owners with drinking water testing, septic system monitoring, and sewer system hookups; and

● Collaborate with local partners to educate the community on a broad range of water quality-related issues and solutions for protecting and restoring our water resources.