I didn’t see the sandhill crane, but I heard it. I was floating on the Teton River, dumbstruck by the natural beauty around me. I still am, and don’t expect
An esteemed wolf biologist and an avid Jackson Hole naturalist are the recipients of two Northern Rockies Conservation Cooperative awards that celebrate conservation biology and citizen science.
Meeting virtually for the Jackson Hole Wildlife Symposium, staff for the Jackson-based organization announced that the Raynes Citizen Conservation Award recipient for 2021 was Tim Griffith, a fixture in the valleyâs birdwatching community. Meanwhile, Yellowstone National Park Senior Wildlife Biologist Doug Smith, who leads the Yellowstone Wolf Project, was given the Craighead Conservation Award.
âHe goes out of his way to share his passion for wolves and nature, and works hard to create the respectful dialog that is so needed, especially when the goal is conservation of a feared and loathed predator,â NRCC President Peyton Curlee Griffin said while announcing the award-winners. âSmith exemplifies the Craighead tradition with his efforts to educate through film, books and
This Memorial Day as you hike mountains, fish the Southfork, or float the Teton River, please remember a few people who have given us this gift of open spaces and wild places. Recently, we lost three Heroes of Conservation who gave tirelessly so we could enjoy our outdoor experiences for generations to come.
Ron Rope an Environmental Scientist at INL was a true collaborator, skilled at bringing people together to protect wildlife corridors. Ron served the Teton Regional Land Trust (TRLT) from 2000-2012. Ron died in April 2020.
Joselin Matkins was the Executive Director of TRLT and sadly passed away in January of this year. Joselinâs passion for the environment was infectious and she spent many hours connecting youth with nature and protecting iconic wildlife such as Sandhill Cranes.
Teton Regional Land Trust establishes new fund
TRLT
Joselin Matkins
DRIGGS, Idaho (KIFI)-In the memory of Joselin Matkins, the Teton Regional Land Trust has established the Joselin Matkins Enduring Spirit Fund.
Matkins served as Executive Director of the Land Trust from 2015 until her death in January 2021. She began her career as Land Protection Director in 2013.
The fund will be used to support some of Matkins’ passions, including private land conservation, connecting youth and the community with nature, and protecting iconic Greater Yellowstone wildlife, including Sandhill Cranes.
To make a donation or for more information call 208-354-8939 or visit the Land Trust website.
Teton Valley leader dies
Joselin Matkins, executive director of Teton Regional Land Trust and a highly involved and beloved Teton Valley community member, died Friday. The Teton County, Idaho, coronerâs office ruled her death a suicide.
Matkins, 42, was an East Idaho native who left a lasting impact on conservation in the region, first leading the Sagebrush Steppe Land Trust in Pocatello, then moving to Teton Valley in 2013 to work for and then direct the Teton Regional Land Trust.
Matkins departed her Tetonia home for a bike ride Friday morning. Her partner became concerned for her welfare and called the sheriffâs office about an hour and a half later, triggering a search that lasted until evening, when she was found deceased.