Idaho/Wyoming — Perhaps the most divisive ski resort expansion currently being analyzed is over at Grand Targhee Resort.
The ski resort’s proposal involves adding new terrain and lifts within its existing permit footprint, along with expanding the permit boundary to include additional terrain. However, a large number of opponents have made the ski resort reduce its plan, and its revised proposal is also drawing scrutiny. Its draft EIS is essentially a comprehensive textbook, detailing various environmental impacts at play. Where does one even begin in analyzing it?
One good starting point is to watch the following SRG Skiing video. He breaks down the possible future terrain zones, lift replacements, and base area redevelopment plan. Also impressive is his ability to analyze why people are opposed to the plans and identify other potential issues that may arise in the years ahead.
The core argument by SRG Skiing is that sentiments are similar to expansions at other ski resorts. This includes whether Targhee needs to expand, whether lift-served skiing should always be the primary use of US Forest Service land, and whether federal land should be sold to the highest bidder. There’s also the question of whether the US Forest Service should be the one to make such a significant decision, given the impacts on both Idaho and Wyoming. Lastly, there’s the question of who the mountain should be available for.
On the other hand, you could argue that Targhee’s planning issues are because of its location, and won’t have widespread implications. It’s situated inside the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, and just outside Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. It’s also affected by being accessible only by traveling on a road that starts in another state. However, these battles, especially regarding terrain expansions, could prove pertinent to other future plans in the ski industry.
I believe that growth is necessary for Targhee, as the word is spreading about how great this place is. I was gonna call it epic or iconic, but… The questions are whether locals and the ski resort can get on the same page, and if Alta (the town), Driggs, and Victor can find a way to develop the area that won’t price people out.
Image/Video Credits: SRG Skiing, Grand Targhee Resort
