Creating transformative conservation and community impact in Teton Valley, Idaho

Learn about the work of the Teton Creek Collaborative in Teton Valley, Idaho in this video produced by Fisher Creative.

The Teton Creek Corridor project is a collaborative effort of four local nonprofits and key partners bringing together their diverse skills to carry out a high-impact, community conservation project along Teton Creek, just outside of Driggs, Idaho.

The project has a number of goals in the Teton Creek corridor east of Driggs:

Pathways and Public Access

The construction of the 2.5-mile pathway from Cemetary Road to Stateline Road along the south side of Teton Creek was completed in May 2021. The pathway is intended for non-motorized use, subject to seasonal closure between December 1 and May 1 annually to protect critical winter range for big game species. The pathway is a safe, family-friendly recreational opportunity easily accessible from Driggs, connecting local families to nature and the Valley's agricultural heritage, and providing economic benefits for the entire community. Permitted uses and guidelines can be found on the FAQ page.

Agriculture

The project strives to maintain productive farmlands along the Teton Creek corridor through conservation easements, protecting Teton Valley's agricultural heritage. To date over 1,000 acres have been protected between the mouth of Teton Canyon and the Teton River.

Stream Habitat

The project has stabilized more than five miles of Teton Creek streambed, reducing flooding risk for private property and the City of Driggs and improving stream function and habitat.

Riparian Habitat

The project has restored or enhanced over 35 acres of riparian habitat as well as an additional 37 acres of upland sagebrush steppe habitat buffering the corridor. To date approxiamtely 100 acres of important wildlife habitat has been protected.

Community Development

Project partners are working with interested landowners to improve existing developments and make them more compatible with community goals.

Each of the partner organizations recognizes that this project presents an opportunity to build collaborative capacity within their individual organizations, as well as the broader Teton Valley conservation community. The Teton Creek Corridor aims to build out the collaborative systems, experience, and fundraising model to allow for future large-scale, community driven projects.
— Dan Verbeten, Executive Director, Teton Valley Trails and Pathways

Meet the partners making this happen: