Idaho Fish and Game has started Phase 2 of the Clark Fork Delta Restoration Project. Construction activities will require the Johnson Creek Access Site to be closed from October 16, 2019 until approximately April 1, 2020. The closure is necessary to provide the contractor a location to stage supplies and equipment, while protecting the public and contractor from unsafe conditions associated with an active construction site. In addition to delta restoration activities, much needed upgrades will be made to the Johnson Creek Access Site. These will include widening the boat ramp, parking area improvements, and bank stabilization to prevent erosion adjacent to the parking area.
During the closure, the Clark Fork Driftyard Access Site will provide the nearest alternate access point for launching watercraft. This site is located on the north side of the Clark Fork Delta and will remain open until February 1, 2020. A seasonal closure occurs during the spring thaw, but the site will be re-opened as soon as road conditions allow.
Planning, design, and environmental documentation for the Clark Fork Delta Restoration Project began in 2014. The project was divided into three phases; construction of Phase 1 of the project was completed in 2015, Phase 2 of the project is now underway, and full completion of all phases of the project is anticipated by December 2029.
The primary goal of the Clark Fork Delta Restoration Project is to improve and restore important riparian and wetland habitats being impacted as a result of the operational impacts of Albeni Falls Dam, as well as improving water quality by reducing erosion. To accomplish this goal, the project modifies existing land forms, creates additional land forms, adds erosion protection features, plants and seeds vegetation, and controls noxious weeds throughout the Clark Fork Delta.
If you have questions about this project, please contact the Idaho Fish and Game Panhandle Regional Office at (208) 769-1414.