Conservation Plan Aims To Restore Idaho's Big Wood River

The Big Wood River flowing near Ketchum, Idaho.

Credit GHarness / Flickr Creative Commons

Trout Unlimited and the Wood River Land Trust have announced a plan to restore the Big Wood River in central Idaho.

The partnership announced last week and called the Big Wood River Home Rivers Initiative is described as a long-term effort to reconnect tributaries, promote fish passage and maintain stream flows.

Scott Boettger of the Wood River Land Trust says summer wildfires followed by mudslides combined with low flows and increased water temperatures are timely reminders of the challenges the Big Wood faces.

Organizers say the initiative will first create a comprehensive assessment of the river system that will guide restoration efforts.

Officials hope the work results in a robust fishery, recreational opportunities, and a river that can also be used for productive agriculture.