Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance

EXPERT WITNESS & LAND USE EVALUATION

 

R. W. Thorpe

& Associates

Planning & Design

Client: Earth Justice

 

R. W. Thorpe & Associates, Inc. was identified by Earth Justice as having expertise in golf course land feasibility analysis, golf course layout, and the ability to design environmental impact mitigation measures into residential golf course communities.

 

The major design task was to limit the golf course and residential impacts on existing bald eagle nesting sites along the Snake River. Bald eagles use four sites on or in close proximity to the project area. The sites have a long history of use, successful breeding and rearing.

 

R. W. Thorpe & Associates was asked by Earth Justice and the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance to evaluate and review the master plan program and existing layout plan to see if design alternatives could be developed that would minimize impacts on bald eagle nesting site and habitat areas.

 

This project was an opportunity to work with environmental groups and attorneys to create solutions that local jurisdictions could use to assist the communication between environmentalists and developers, two groups who often find themselves at odds with one another.

 

Our work showed several design options that met the needs of the developer and provided various reductions in eagle habitat impacts.

 

The design alternatives were prepared for presentation in Federal Court as part of an appeal process.

 

 

 

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