August Nature News: With warm and dry conditions, Jackson Hole welcomes monsoonal moisture of August

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LOCAL

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August is traditionally the hottest month of the year in Jackson Hole and the month began with temperatures nearing the 90’s. July was mostly hot and dry, so vegetation is a bit crisp throughout the valley. August and September are the primary wildfire months and with the current dry conditions, the fire danger is high. We all need to be extra careful. Fortunately, August brings the potential of monsoonal moisture from the southwest and we have already enjoyed a few wonderful afternoon showers to quench the dry landscape.

Recent heat has been a challenge for all. Moose are adapted to cold environments and don’t do well in the heat. Like us, they seek out water and shade. Water is more important so they can immerse their bodies to release heat. Try to give them space and not make them move away from you as they may be experiencing heat-related stress. I was hiking over the weekend and stopped for a dip in a lake and shared the shore with a cow and calf moose. They were quite a distance away and just lounging in the water.

It’s great to hit the trail in the morning and choose shaded canyons to explore. The afternoon breezes will keep the air moving so ridge hiking is nice during that time of the day. Flowers continue to bloom and nice blossoms can be found around 9,000 feet. August gives us endless recreational options to enjoy and by the end of the month, we usually get the first whisper of seasonal change.

Enjoy these last few summer weeks,

Cathy Shill
Founder, The Hole Hiking Experience

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REGIONAL

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Wolves — Apex Predators

Wolves are apex predators and help to keep nature in balance. They have strong family bonds and the death of a dominant wolf, or alpha, can negatively impact the stability of the pack. Within a wolf pack, the alpha pair mate and the entire pack cares for the pups. If an alpha dies, whether human-caused or age related, the wolf pack reorganizes. Human caused deaths can take a wolf in its prime which will stress the pack, long-term effects of which are still mostly unknown.

Due to the impact of hunting in Montana, the superintendent of Yellowstone hopes to change hunting regulations to protect the Park wolves. Last year, three different wolf packs dissolved threatening the stability of the population.

Learn More:

• How the death of one wolf can affect the entire pack
• Yellowstone superintendent seeks hunting relief for wolves after another deadly winter

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SPIRIT

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Field Facts

•  August is berry time! There are lots of edible varieties to taste if you can properly identify them. Some of my favorites are thimbleberry, huckleberry, serviceberry and gooseberry.
• Mating season will begin soon so be mindful of male moose and elk since they can be feisty during the fall rut.

Backcountry Tips

• Shortcutting trails causes erosion. Josie’s Ridge near town has so many new trails that the Forest Service had rocks brought in to deter this. Come on folks, let’s reduce impact and stay on the trails.
• Single tracks should be used in single file to avoid widening.
• As we all head to the water, be aware of afternoon storms and wind. Weather can change quickly so stay near the shore on the larger lakes.

Trail Suggestion

August is the height of berries and fireweed. Hiking options are endless this time of the summer and a personal favorite is the Teton Pass area. Hiking out Phillips Ridge in early August is a great time to catch the blooming Fireweed. Evening excursions at String Lake in Grand Teton Park is always great when it’s hot, there are fewer people and still lots of sun.

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