Photo By Marcy Sanchez | Riparian habitat along the Boise River in the Barber Pool Conservation Area (BPCA) is...... read more read more
Nestled along the Boise River, just five miles from downtown Boise, lies the Barber Pool Conservation Area (BPCA), an aquatic and riparian ecosystem spanning over 700 acres, one of the largest natural areas dedicated to wildlife found within an American capital city. Known for its lush habitats and migratory bird stopovers, the BPCA is now the focus of restoration initiative led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Walla Walla District (USACE ) and Boise State University.
The initiative aims to rejuvenate the area’s ecosystems while enhancing public awareness and education. As part of this effort, a recent public scoping meeting invited the public to hear more about the scope of the feasibility study and proposed efforts for restoration of the BPCA under the Continuing Authorities Program (CAP).
“This study is more than an environmental effort; it’s about creating harmony between nature and community,” says Marve Griffith, a planner and project manager for the initiative, Walla Walla District, USACE. “The BPCA isn’t just on the outskirts of Boise—it’s part of its identity.”
As planners, ecologists, and community members convene for public scoping, the project’s ambitions are coming into sharper focus. Current ecosystem challenges stem from historical modifications to the Boise River. The construction of infrastructure upstream reshaped the river’s natural flow, suppressing peak flows that once rejuvenated the floodplain.
“This system has lost its channel-forming flows,” Griffith explains. “Without seasonal inundation, we’re seeing a decline in riparian vegetation like black cottonwood forests and an overall loss of biodiversity.”
The river’s confinement to a single channel has further limited habitats for fish and aquatic species, while eroding banks pose additional threats. But the problems extend beyond nature. Unregulated foot traffic has created a network of “braided pathways,” damaging vegetation and disrupting wildlife.
One of the core goals of the study is to balance ecological restoration with community priorities, including recreation and education. “It’s critical that we hear from the public,” Griffith notes. “Scoping gives people a chance to share their passion and influence the project.”
Public input has already highlighted several focal areas. For instance, local resident Alan Crockett emphasizes the need for designated trails to manage pedestrian activity.
“Right now, it’s a warren of little trails,” Crockett explains. “If we establish good, maintained pathways, people will use them, and it’ll reduce erosion and protect wildlife.”
The project also plans to create side channels to support fish habitats, lower floodplain elevations for seasonal flooding, and expand wetlands. Each measure is carefully designed to meet the needs of both the environment and the people who cherish the BPCA.
The restoration strategy is multifaceted, targeting issues like sedimentation, invasive species, and habitat fragmentation. One key component involves bioengineered stabilization of riverbanks using natural materials such as log jams and root wads.
“These structures mimic natural processes, reducing erosion while providing shelter for fish and birds,” says Griffith. “It’s a win-win for the ecosystem and the community.”
Another priority is restoring floodplain dynamics. By reconnecting side channels and using features like beaver dam analogs, the team aims to reintroduce seasonal water flow.
The community’s enthusiasm for the project is palpable. At the recent public scoping meeting, attendees voiced concerns and aspirations, reflecting their connection to the area.
“What we’re seeing is a desire to preserve this space not just for today, but for future generations,” Griffith observes. “People want their kids to enjoy Barber Pool the way they did.”
Crockett shares similar sentiments, noting that while challenges like water rights and dam operations limit certain options, there’s still ample room for innovative solutions.
“If we can’t reestablish black cottonwoods, maybe we look at alternative vegetation,” he suggests. “And resurrecting side channels could make a big difference.”
Education is another cornerstone of the initiative. Interpretive trails, signage, and partnerships with schools aim to transform Barber Pool into a hub for environmental learning.
“It’s not just about restoring habitats—it’s about inspiring people to appreciate and protect them,” Griffith says.
While the feasibility study is still in its early stages, with public scoping open until Dec. 6, the team will incorporate community feedback into a final report expected next winter.
“This is a collaborative effort,” Griffith emphasizes. “We’re building on decades of local engagement and expertise, and the more voices we hear, the better the outcome.”
For Crockett and other locals, the project represents a chance to shape the future of a beloved space. “This is my backyard,” said Crockett. “It’s worth every effort to get this right.”
“This isn’t just about fixing the environment,” said Griffith. “It’s about building a legacy—one where nature and people thrive together.”
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Interested parties may submit a comment through the NEPA Online Comment Form, https://www.nww.usace.army.mil/EnvironmentalComplianceComment/
or by emailing NEPANWW@usace.army.mil, inserting “Barber Pool Feasibility Study” in the subject line.
Written comments via U.S. Mail can be addressed to:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Walla Walla District
ATTN: Barber Pool, Feasibility Study
201 North 3rd Avenue
Walla Walla, WA 99362-1876
Comments need to be submitted or postmarked no later than Dec. 6, 2024 for consideration. All comments submitted will be considered and become part of the public record.
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| Date Taken: | 11.22.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 12.02.2024 19:35 |
| Story ID: | 486011 |
| Location: | BOISE, IDAHO, US |
| Hometown: | BOISE, IDAHO, US |
| Web Views: | 27 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Reviving Boise’s Barber Pool, by Marcy Sanchez, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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