Wyoming Water Sports Business Won Contract for Jackson Lake

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — A Wyoming water sports business has gained a contract to guide multiday kayak trips on Jackson Lake over an incumbent river outfitter that ran trips nationwide.

The Jackson Hole News & Guide reported Thursday that Grand Teton National Park officials confirmed Rendezvous River Sports took the place of OARS West for a contract expected to run from 2020 to 2029.

Owner Aaron Pruzan says the California-based concessionaire was offered a right of preference for about 20 years but lost its preferred status this year despite an appeal.

Pruzan says incumbent businesses making less than $500,000 a year are first in line to retain permits, but only if submitted proposals are responsive to agency prospectuses.

Pruzan says he has no ill will toward OARS and hopes for a smooth transition.