By taking a long-term, holistic view to improving water resources and the recovery of native trout populations, BEF's Model Watershed program represents a cutting-edge approach. To achieve sustainable results, BEF provides long-term financial and scientific support spanning a 10-year period. For each Model Watershed project selected, BEF commits to provide scientific support, the services of a professional independent scientific review team, and funding for monitoring and assessment over the full duration of the project.

"We are grateful for the opportunity to work with the Bonneville Environmental Foundation," said Lyn Benjamin, FTR Executive Director. "By investing significant time and resources in our organization, BEF is truly contributing to the local economy and a bright future for our watershed."

The Teton Watershed was selected as the newest addition to the Model Watershed program because of the ecological importance of the Teton River and its tributaries, the opportunities for significant positive outcomes, and existing work being done by FTR. The Model Watershed project will complement FTR's current efforts to restore habitat, reconnect tributaries that have been dewatered, foster the recovery of Yellowstone cutthroat trout populations, educate children and adults on the importance of watershed health and develop community-based programs to promote water conservation.

"FTR is an ideal partner for demonstrating the positive impact of Model Watershed projects," said Todd Reeve, Vice President, Watershed Programs for BEF. "We look forward to working with them over the next 10 years to ensure the Teton Basin remains a vital place for fish, wildlife, and people."

Restoring Stream Health and Wildlife Populations
Located near the southwest corner of Yellowstone National Park, the Teton Basin has long been a destination for people seeking to live and recreate in the great outdoors. However, growing environmental demands from humans as a result of increased population and land use practices have lead to deterioration of local watershed ecosystems. FTR's work includes habitat, fish passage and streamflow restoration, water quality and fisheries monitoring, and an active watershed education program for youth and adults. FTR accomplishes this work through close collaboration with a wide range of community stakeholders.

Over the course of the last 10 years, Friends of the Teton have focused extensively on building a baseline understanding of the unique conditions and requirements of the Teton Basin habitat and local community. This deep knowledge enables the organization to establish clear, achievable goals and adaptively manage their approach as progress is made.

About Friends of the Teton River
Founded in 2000, Friends of the Teton River, a non-profit organization, is a nationally recognized leader in science and community-based watershed protection and restoration. Supported by a diverse group of stakeholders including farmers, anglers, scientists, agency personnel and environmentalists, the FTR team works for clean water, healthy streams and abundant fisheries in Teton Valley. By taking a collaborative approach to watershed restoration, Friends of the Teton River aims to achieve long term sustainable results that benefit the entire community and strengthen economic viability in the region. For more information, see http://www.tetonwater.org

About the Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF)
Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF) is an entrepreneurial nonprofit that is creating a more sustainable future by investing now in clean energy and fresh water. When customers purchase BEF's independently certified carbon offsets and renewable energy certificates, they support the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the development of new renewable energy facilities. Additionally, their purchase supports long-term watershed restoration and renewable energy education for students and communities nationwide because BEF reinvests its net revenue to fund its Model Watershed and Solar 4R Schools programs. Since its inception in Portland, Ore. in 1998, BEF has been a pioneer in helping people and companies become better stewards of the environment. For more information, see http://www.b-e-f.org/