Park County commissioners unanimously opposed a gravel pit near Emigrant, marking a shift from their previous support. The reversal occurred after community members voiced strong opposition in February. The recent meeting was notably quieter, with a 3-0 vote against the pit, signaling the commissioners’ responsiveness to local concerns. Park County Environmental Council’s Erica Lighthiser noted the difference in turnout, attributing it to gratitude over anger.
Commissioners explained their decision by emphasizing public feedback. Residents had inundated them with letters and signed petitions opposing the gravel pit, leading to a changed stance. “All three of us have received a lot of public feedback,” Commissioner Jennifer Vermillion stated. She highlighted the necessity of finding creative solutions.
The controversy arose from the county’s need for affordable gravel amidst increased road use by visitors to Yellowstone National Park. However, sourcing the material without affecting wildlife and public access is challenging. The new opposition letter suggests leveraging an existing pit in Paradise Valley to meet gravel needs. It also advocates for Yellowstone to source gravel internally, prioritizing safety and reducing carbon emissions on Highway 89.
This development contrasts with the county’s earlier support, partly based on Yellowstone’s future gravel requirements. However, Yellowstone clarified it has alternative gravel sources. Commissioner Bryan Wells remarked, “Yellowstone Park did not ask for this or say they needed gravel there.”
Riverside Contracting, the company behind the application, has multiple permits for gravel pits statewide, including controversial projects near Arlee and near Bonner. While Yellowstone Park didn’t request gravel, some speculate Riverside seeks cheaper sources.
Commissioners engaged with existing gravel pits in Paradise Valley, ensuring they meet county standards. “The supply of gravel isn’t the issue,” Vermillion noted, addressing funding challenges. Sourcing locally would cut costs for southern county projects, reducing haul distances from the current supplier, Fisher Sand & Gravel.
Despite the positive response, some attendees expressed concerns over gravel availability for road maintenance. Nonetheless, the meeting demonstrated the power of public input. Ken Cochrane of Friends of Park County commented, “This decision shows when citizens speak clearly and with real knowledge, you listen.”
Although the County Commission opposed the pit, the state Land Board still holds approval authority. Commissioner Mike Story expressed hope for alignment with local preferences. Approximately 60 people attended the meeting, split between in-person and online participation.
Rebecca Henson, a local business owner, celebrated the decision as a potential precedent for protecting public lands across the U.S. “It makes me feel elated,” she stated, emphasizing the broader implications. Meanwhile, Lighthiser reflected on the outcome, describing it as a rare win-win situation.
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