Thirty years have passed since the collapse of eastern Idaho’s Teton Dam. Its failure released 80 billion gallons of water on the largely LDS population of the Upper Snake River Valley. The event, often referred to as “that day in June,” placed a spotlight on local Mormon leadership as it responded to the death and destruction wrought by the floodwaters. From door-to-door evacuation efforts to busloads of out-of-state cleanup crews, the actions of Latter-day Saints played a crucial role in how the drama unfolded. Using photo documentation, this presentation will look at how individual members, Ricks College staff, and LDS leaders reacted to the disaster.

DYLAN MCDONALD