Pinedale local news summary

Pinedale’s Water Supply Faces Uncertain Future Amidst Dropping Lake Levels

Local Crews Praised for Initial Response to Dollar Lake Wildfire Near Pinedale

Pinedale’s Water Main Project Hits Costly Snag, Change Order Expected

Pinedale to Re-examine Building Height Rules

“Sad Dirt Spot” in Downtown Pinedale Eyed for New Sidewalk

Pinedale’s Water Supply Faces Uncertain Future Amidst Dropping Lake Levels

PINEDALE - The Pinedale Town Council heard a stark report regarding the water level in Fremont Lake, which is at a “historic low” after dropping drastically in the last few weeks. Approximately 10,000 acre-feet of stored water have already been used this summer, and officials are uncertain who is drawing the water down. The rapid drawdown could deplete the lake’s remaining storage in less than 30 days. Complicating matters is the looming expiration of temporary agreements within the Colorado River Compact at the end of 2026. Officials warned of a “very real possibility” that Upper Basin states could be forced into curtailment, a scenario where Pinedale would be barred from refilling its post-1922 water rights in the lake, making the protection of its current 18,000 acre-feet of stored water critically important.

Local Crews Praised for Initial Response to Dollar Lake Wildfire Near Pinedale

PINEDALE - Fire officials provided an update on the ongoing Dollar Lake Fire, commending local firefighters for their initial work in holding the fire before state and federal teams arrived. Evacuation alerts have been issued for the Kendall Valley area, with some areas placed in the “set” phase, meaning residents should be packed and ready to leave. Crews have been working to protect structures, including Red Cliff Bible Camp, by installing extensive sprinkler systems and conducting burnout operations to create a defensive line. While the fire remains a threat, officials assured the public that defensive measures are in place and crews are prepared.

Pinedale’s Water Main Project Hits Costly Snag, Change Order Expected

PINEDALE - The Shallow Water Main replacement project has encountered significant and costly complications on Quartz Avenue. The issue is believed to stem from a clogged underdrain pipe that was installed in 2009 without manholes for access, making it nearly impossible to repair without major excavation and risk. Instead of a full repair of the drain, crews will mitigate the resulting “soft spots” in the roadbed by digging down two feet, laying fabric, and bringing in structural fill. The extra work is expected to require a change order of between $50,000 and $60,000 to complete. Paving is now hoped to begin in mid-September.

Pinedale to Re-examine Building Height Rules

PINEDALE - In response to a recently constructed commercial building, the Pinedale Town Council has formally referred the town’s definition of “building height” to the Pinedale Planning and Zoning Commission for review. The commission will hold a public hearing to consider a potential amendment to the current definition, which is located in Chapter 475 of the town code.

“Sad Dirt Spot” in Downtown Pinedale Eyed for New Sidewalk

PINEDALE - A prominent corner in downtown Pinedale may soon see improvements after a council member called attention to what was described as a “sad dirt spot” at the intersection of Tyler and Pine. The area, located on the Green River Valley Program of the Jackson Hole Land Trust side of the street, is a “dirt mess” along Tyler, despite the Pine Street side having a full sidewalk. The council member suggested a new sidewalk could be installed to beautify the busy downtown cross-section and noted that the land trust might be interested in contributing to the effort. The item was added to a list for future consideration.

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