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Contact: Public Affairs Office, 307.739.3393
The University of Wyoming (UW) and National Park Service (NPS) will prepare an environmental assessment (EA) to analyze environmental effects of a range of alternatives for proposed improvements to the UW/NPS Research Center Campus at the AMK Ranch on the east shore of Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park. These include replacement of the water and wastewater systems, construction of a new dormitory, and implementation of a number of other improvements. Public comments will be accepted during a scoping period from January 18 through February 20, 2013. Administrators at the UW/NPS Research Center have determined the need to replace the existing water and wastewater systems. The current potable water system operates from three wells and an associated 500-gallon pressure tank; in its current state this water system does not provide structural fire protection. Currently, six buildings are served by seven individual septic tanks/leach field systems, and this existing wastewater system is well beyond its intended lifespan. The number of researchers using the Center's campus is increasing and overnight housing is frequently filled to a capacity of 60 individuals. To accommodate a maximum overnight population of 75 people, UW is proposing future construction of a 24-person accessible dormitory. The new dormitory, which would be accessible for persons with disabilities and compliant with structural fire codes, would relieve some pressure on the campus' historic buildings. Several other improvements are also being considered. The EA will evaluate the impact of addressing other issues such as surface water drainage around the Berol Lodge, lakeshore erosion, and the condition and appearance of the existing breakwater wall located adjacent to the historic boat house. The Research Center, which is located about one mile north of Leeks Marina, is within the AMK Ranch Historic District and consists of several structures built primarily between 1927 and 1937. The primary function of the Research Center is to promote scientific study within the Greater Yellowstone Area. This facility furnishes housing, laboratory space, transportation, equipment and financial support to enable investigators in the biological, physical, and social sciences to access the rich and diverse natural and cultural resources of Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks, the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, and surrounding areas. To obtain information and submit comments, visit online at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/uw-nps. Comments may also be submitted to Grand Teton National Park; Planning & Environmental Compliance; P.O. Drawer 170; Moose, WY 83012. |
Last updated: February 24, 2015