According to a recent press release from the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG), the second phase of the Pack River Delta Restoration project is now complete. Work started on the project in October 2023 and was completed in June of this year. The area is now and ready for use by both the public and wildlife.
The project provided several benefits for the public, including a new access site with a boat ramp, additional waterfowl hunting, easier access to fishing areas, and new opportunities for bird and other wildlife watching.
“The hope is that people use it. That they get out and explore and spend time with their families enjoying the incredible natural resources of Idaho,” state Pete Rust, Mitigation Staff Biologist in the Panhandle Region.
Wildlife populations stand to benefit even more that the public. The majority of the project consisted of creating new islands that had been slowly eroded since the construction and operation of Albeni Falls Dam in the mid-1950s.
The release stated, “To avoid the same challenges this time around, all new islands were constructed with two factors in mind: wildlife habitat and erosion protection. Waterfowl of all species will find the new islands a welcoming respite compared to what was available before – complete with small wetland pools, native plants, ample cover and quick access to bigger water. To avoid the potential for erosion, all islands were planted with native vegetation and then rimmed with native willow trees and rock.”
After a couple of growing seasons, the entire delta will rejuvenate and once again be a place of stunning natural beauty.
IDFG reminds anyone using motorized watercraft to be aware that per Bonner County ordinance, the area of the Pack River from the Burlington Northern Railroad Bridge upstream to the Highway 200 bridge over the Pack River is a no wake zone. Also, motorized watercraft are prohibited upstream of the Highway 200 bridge.
Please contact the Panhandle Regional office at (208) 769-1414 with any questions.
