![]() | Lower Salmon RiverBoating Guide - Vinegar Creek to Heller Bar |
Boating Guide for Vinegar Creek to Heller Bar on the Lower Salmon River in Idaho. Published by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
COTTONWOOD FIELD OFFICE
IDAHO
THE LOWER SALMON RIVER
BOATING GUIDE, VINEGAR CREEK TO HELLER BAR
Cover illustration, Adam Ridley BLM
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
COTTONWOOD FIELD OFFICE
IDAHO
THE LOWER SALMON RIVER
BOATING GUIDE, VINEGAR CREEK TO HELLER BAR
Bureau of Land Management
Cottonwood Field Office
2 Butte Drive
Cottonwood, Idaho
83522
208-962-3245
The Lower Salmon River
The Nez Perce Indians have occupied this area for millennia. They call this river “Tamaánma”, which translates to
“something laying near the side of the river.” Early explorers dubbed it the “River of No Return” due to the difficulties
they experienced trying to transport wooden boats upstream through roaring rapids. Whatever it is called, the
dynamic Salmon River and the land it nourishes are very special.
The 425-mile waterway is the longest completely free flowing river in the lower 48 states and one of the few in the
nation that contains no dams. The river begins as not much more than a trickle at an elevation of about 8,000 feet
in the Sawtooth and Whitecloud Mountains of central Idaho. It gathers force as it makes its way northeast and then
west, fed by snows from the Sawtooth and Salmon River Mountains in the south and the Clearwater and Bitterroot
Mountains in the north.
About 150 miles further on its westward course, the Salmon River has created the second deepest canyon in North
America, which effectively splits Idaho in half. The section known as the Lower Salmon River begins at Vinegar
Creek, 26 miles upstream from the town of Riggins. At Riggins, the river swings north and then west for 86 miles
where it meets the Snake River in Hells Canyon. The Snake River continues to flow into the Columbia River and
eventually into the Pacific Ocean. The drainage area of the Salmon River, which lies entirely within Idaho’s borders,
encompasses approximately 13,550 square miles.
The river and its canyon are truly remarkable. The numerous – and unusual – white sand beaches are a reminder
that this river is still free flowing. Respect the river, listen to it, learn from it, cooperate with it, and care for it.
Bureau of Land Management
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INFORMATION .............1
REQUIREMENTS AND LAWS .............4
SAFETY .............7
RIVER ETIQUETTE .............8
AFTER YOUR TRIP .............9
CONSERVATION EASEMENTS .............10
SNOWHOLE WILDERNESS STUDY AREA .............11
WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS .............11
MAP INDEX .............12
MAP LEGEND .............13
MAP EXAMPLE .............14
RIVER MAPS .............15-75
HUMAN HISTORY .............36
GEOLOGY .............61
WILDLIFE .............76
PLANT LIFE .............80
7
12
Clarkston
Lewiston
C L E A R WAT E R
129
NEZ PERCE
Asotin
Sn
e R iv
ak
!
·
11
7
L 62E W I S
er
12
Rd
.
62
64
WA S H I N G T O N
162
Heller Bar
Cottonwood
Sa
lm
on
R iv
13
er
Grangeville
95
Pine Bar
14
IDAHO
Hammer
Creek
White Bird
Whitebird
Gravel Pit
Pealy
Campbell Flats
Slate Creek
Twin Bridges
Pittsburgh Landing
Long Gulch
Maynard Hole
OREGON
Gospel-Hump
Lucile
Old Lucile
Wilderness
Carey
Creek
r
Lightning
Creek
e R
ive
City of
Riggins
Sn
ak
Riggins
!
·
Spring Bar
Island
Bar
ive
Salmon R
Shorts
Bar
Hells Canyon
Wilderness
!
·
Boat Launches
SCAT Machine
Nez Perce Trail
Bureau of Land Managment
Nez Perce Tribe
Private
Idaho Dept. of Lands
ADAMS
Idaho Fish & Game
VA L L E Y
US Forest Service
USFS Wilderness
Access Sites
0 2 4 6 8 10 Kilometers
0
2
4
6
8
10 Miles
New Meadows
55
Vinegar
Creek
r
Information
How to Use This Boater’s Guide
This guide includes maps and information about the Salmon River from Vinegar Creek to the confluence with the
Snake River and the Snake River from the Salmon / Snake confluence to Heller Bar below the Snake and Grande
Ronde River confluence.
This guide is intended to illustrate where beaches are located along with highlighting public and private land. The
beaches will change in size, shape, and slope from year to year but the areas where sand is deposited is consistent.
The images of the beaches were taken at flows between 3,400-8,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) on the Salmon River
and at 9,000 cfs on the Snake River. The aerial photographs were taken at flows between 3,310-5,000 cfs on the Salmon
River and 11,500 cfs on the Snake River. At higher flows, some beaches will be submerged under water and lower
flows may expose more beaches/campsites. The river mile markers on the Salmon River represent the number of
miles to the confluence with the Snake River. The river mile markers on the Snake River represent the number of
miles to the confluence with the Columbia River.
RIVER Sections
The Lower Salmon is the last 112 miles of the Salmon River and is a pool-and-drop river, with the more difficult
rapids in the narrow canyons and during higher flows. Numerous white sandy beaches on both sides of the river
offer camping, as all beaches and shoreline below the average high water mark is public land.
The first 34.5 miles from Vinegar Creek to Lucile is an exciting section with several Class II and III rapids and a few
Class IV rapids at higher flows. It is often run by commercial outfitters in 1-3 days. The Riggins section, most
commonly run from Spring Bar or Shorts Bar to Lucile, is the most popular day stretch and includes many fun Class
II and III rapids.
The next 25.5 miles from Lucile to Hammer Creek is mostly flatwater with the exception of Blackhawk Rapid, which
can be Class III or IV depending on flows and is usually run on river right avoiding the hole on river left. This section
flows along Highway 95 with numerous river access points and boat ramps.
From Hammer Creek to the Confluence of the Snake is the last 52 miles of the Salmon River and requires a self-issue
permit (refer to the Permit section on page 4). This section is pool and drop and has mostly Class II-III rapids with
a few Class IV rapids throughout all 52 miles. During the summer months, visitor use is high through this section,
please be respectful of other users at the boat ramps and on the river.
The 20-mile stretch of the Snake River, from the confluence with the Salmon River to the Heller Bar take-out near
the confluence with the Grande Ronde River, contains slower moving water with some rapids and is often characterized
by stiff up-canyon winds as well as fluctuating water levels due to dam releases. Jet boat traffic is typically busier on
this section, especially on the weekends.
Trip Duration
Depending on what section you float and the flow of the river, trips can range from a half day to seven or eight days
or more. There is a total of 132 river miles from Vinegar Creek to Heller Bar with multiple river access sites providing
for many trip options. The average duration for a trip from Hammer Creek to Heller Bar is four to six days.
Main Seasons of Use
Seasons of use depend on the water level and section of river, but generally the floating season begins in June from
Vinegar Creek to Hammer Creek and in July from Hammer Creek to Heller Bar. Typically, steelhead season runs
September through early spring and salmon season is sometime in the spring. Check Idaho Fish and Game rules
and regulations for steelhead and salmon fishing. Power boating season, depending on flows, can occur year round.
1
River Mileages
Spring Bar
Take Out
Shorts Bar
Take Out
Lucile
Take Out
Hammer Creek
Take Out
Pine Bar
Take Out
Eagle Creek
Take Out
Confluence
Heller Bar
Take Out
Vinegar Creek
Launch Site
15
24
34.5
60
71
100
112
132
Spring Bar
Launch Site
—
9
19.5
45
56
85
97
117
Shorts Bar
Launch Site
—
—
10.5
35.5
46
76
88
108
Lucile
Launch Site
—
—
—
25.5
36.5
65.5
77.5
97.5
Hammer Creek
Launch Site
—
—
—
—
11
40
52
72
Pine Bar
Launch Site
—
—
—
—
—
29
41
61
Eagle Creek
Launch Site
—
—
—
—
—
—
12
32
Confluence
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
20
Pittsburg Landing launch on the Snake River is 27 miles upstream from the Salmon/Snake confluence.
Difficulty Rating
The Lower Salmon River is Class II-IV on the International Scale. The level of difficulty of the rapids vary depending
on season and river flows. At higher water levels, the river becomes increasingly more difficult. Please know your
ability and boat safely. Slide Rapid is a Class V-VI at flows 20,000 cfs and higher and the BLM does not recommend
boating at those flows.
This guide book is not a substitute for personal skill or judgement. Whitewater boating can be dangerous and
hazardous in nature. All rapid ratings are arbitrary, and can vary greatly with the water level. It is the sole responsibility of each boater to get proper instruction and paddle safely within their ability. The BLM is not responsible
for personal injury, death, property damage, or violation of the law associated with your trip. It is imperative that
individuals make an informed choice whether to boat a section or not. Therefore, before attempting any river, paddlers should ensure that every person in their group understands the inherent risks of river running, freely assumes
responsibility for their own safety, and possesses the necessary skill and prior experience to reasonably ensure a safe
trip. You are responsible for your own safety.
Whitewater Classifications—International Scale
Class I—small waves, passages clear, no serious obstacles.
Class II—medium-sized regular waves, passages clear, some maneuvering may be required.
Class III—waves numerous, high, and irregular, rocks, eddies, narrow passages, scouting may be necessary.
Class IV—powerful, irregular waves, boiling eddies, dangerous rocks, congested passages, precise maneuvering required, and scouting recommended.
Class V—exceedingly difficult, violent rapids often following each other without interruption, big drops, and violent
current, scouting mandatory but often difficult.
Class VI—limit of navigability, generally considered unrunnable.
Elevations above sea level
Vinegar Creek 1,975’
Riggins 1,821’
Hammer Creek 1,440’
Pittsburg Landing (Snake River)
1,130’
Salmon/Snake Confluence 900’
Heller Bar (Snake River)
840’
2
Flow Information
Flow measurements are taken daily from the White Bird Gauge just above Hammer Creek. For daily flow information go to the USGS website at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/id/nwis/uv?13317000 or call the BLM at (208) 962-3245.
The minimum recorded flow is 1,580 cfs on December 11, 1932 and the maximum recorded flow is 134,000 cfs on
June 1, 1894. Water temperature ranges from less than 32 degrees to sometimes over 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Approximate One-Way Shuttle Distance and Drive Times
170 miles—5 hours
Vinegar Creek to Heller Bar
Vinegar Creek to Pine Bar
96 miles—2.5 hours
Vinegar Creek to Hammer Creek
60 miles—2 hours
Hammer Creek to Heller Bar
125 miles—3 hours
Hammer Creek to Pine Bar
40 miles—1 hour
110 miles—2.5 hours
Pine Bar to Heller Bar
Pittsburg Landing to Hammer Creek
19 miles—1 hour
Private shuttle services are available.
Check local listings and online for companies offering this service.
Kayaking Play Waves/Holes
This guide book has locations and prime flows of some of the most popular kayaking play spots on the Lower Salmon
River. Know your ability. Surf and play at your own risk.
Gold Hole
River Mile 109.9
Map 1
7,000 to 11,000 cfs
Couch Wave
River Mile 103.0
Map 4
Cat’s Paw
River Mile 92.3
Map 8,9
9,500 to 12,000 cfs or 22,000-29,000 cfs when the
Little Salmon River is flowing at least 2,000 cfs
3,800 to 5,200 cfs
Peace Wave
River Mile 91.5
Map 9
3,400 to 6,500 cfs
Mill Wave
River Mile 86.9
Map 10
3,000 to 4,500 cfs
Machine Wave
River Mile 85.5
Map 11
6,500 to 10,000 cfs
Race Creek
River Mile 84.9
Map 11
24,000 to 50,000 cfs
Tight Squeeze
River Mile 83.8
Map 11
5,000 to 7,500 cfs
Chair Creek
River Mile 81.7
Map 12
24,000 to 32,000 cfs
Rodeo Hole
River Mile 79.5
Map 13
10,000 to 19,000 cfs
Demon’s Drop
River Mile 43.7
Map 24,25
10,000 to 12,000 cfs
Lower Bunghole
River Mile 28.1
Map 30
4,000 to 7,000 cfs
Sundown Surf
River Mile 8.0
Map 38
4,000 to 6,500 cfs
3
Requirements and Laws
Permits
As of 2018, there are no private permits required on the Lower Salmon River from Vinegar Creek to Hammer Creek.
However, self-issue permits are required for all private trips below Hammer Creek from July 1st – Labor Day and
all overnight trips year-round. You can get a self-issue permit at White Bird Gravel Pit, Hammer Creek, Pine Bar,
Graves/Rock Creek, the BLM office in Cottonwood, or online on the Idaho BLM website (https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/recreation-activities/idaho). This permit also authorizes use of the Snake River in Hells Canyon
below the mouth of the Salmon River if your trip originated on the Salmon. This self-issue permit will have all of the
current rules and regulations required for a river trip through this section. Please note that the requirements on the
Snake River may differ from those on the Lower Salmon. Different regulations will be posted at launch sites or will
be printed on the self-issue permit.
•
Special Recreation Permits
Special recreation permits are required for all commercial use and organized group activities on the Lower Salmon River and are issued by the BLM Cottonwood Field Office. Contact the BLM Cottonwood Field Office for a
complete list of authorized commercial outfitters.
•
Idaho Invasive Species Sticker
A state law requires the owner of any boat and any non-motorized vessel (canoe, kayak, raft, drift boat etc.) to
buy and display an Idaho Invasive Species Sticker to legally launch and operate the boat in Idaho. Stickers are
available online at http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/. For questions about sticker purchases, contact the
Idaho Parks and Recreation registration help line at: 1-800-247-6332. Only inflatable, non-motorized vessels less
than 10 feet long are exempt.
•
Washington State Discover Pass
Any vehicles parked at or using the water access site at Heller Bar on the Snake River must have a Washington
State Discover Pass. This pass allows for access to recreation lands managed by the State of Washington. The
Discover Pass can be purchased at https://discoverpass.wa.gov/.
Respect Private Property
Although all beaches and shoreline below the average high water mark are public land, there is private property
along the river above the high water line. Respect private land and enter it only with permission.
Archaeological Sites
You will probably see evidence of historic and prehistoric people and communities along the river. Please do not
disturb these sites. Federal and State laws strictly forbid vandalism of cultural sites (such as pictographs and structures) or the removal of arrowheads or other cultural artifacts.
Fishing and Hunting
Idaho fishing and hunting licenses are required. Learn and observe the seasons and regulations. They are strictly
enforced by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. More information can be found at their website at
https://idfg.idaho.gov/.
Firearms
Discharging a firearm near or within an occupied area, such as a campsite, is prohibited. Appropriate and safe use of
firearms by all members of the party is the direct responsibility of the trip leader. Clean up any used casings and/or
targets.
Group Size
There is no limit on group size from Vinegar Creek to Hammer Creek. There is a maximum group size of 30 people
per trip from Hammer Creek to the confluence with the Snake. Below Hammer Creek, groups cannot be combined
(camping or floating together) using multiple self-issue permits if the total number of people is greater than 30.
4
Camping Protocol
Camp running is prohibited. Camps cannot be occupied before 1:30 pm Pacific Time (2:30 pm Mountain Time)
unless the entire group is present. Occupation includes sitting in the eddy or on shore in front of a camp or beach.
Firepans are required when camping along the river, A. Hedrick BLM
Fires
You are required to use firepans for all camp and cooking fires. An approved fire pan is a durable, metal fire pan at
least 12-inches x 12-inches wide with a bottom in it, with at least a 1.5 inch lip around its outer edge and sufficient to
contain fire and remains. Please elevate fire pans off the ground to prevent scorching. If the fire pan does not have
legs to elevate it, place rocks underneath the corners of the pan. All ash and charcoal must be removed and carried
out of the river corridor. Gather only driftwood for fires. Scatter any unused firewood away from camp before leaving. All seasonal fire restrictions must be followed in the river corridor. NO FIREWORKS ALLOWED!
When floating on the Snake River; firepans are required; use of wood for fuel is prohibited from July 1 through September 15. No firewood may be gathered on the Snake River
Dishwater
Food bits left in camp are a magnet for biting insects. Bring along a strainer or piece of screen to filter food bits from
dishwater. Scatter the strained water directly into the main current of the river or in vegetation 200 ft. above high
water - making sure no food particles are dumped. Do not strain water on the beach or sand.
5
Patrols pack out tires and trash found in the river and on beaches...pack out the trash you bring, Ryan Turner BLM
Trash
Pack out everything you pack in. Spend a few extra minutes to scout your camp and pick up litter that may have
been left behind by others. Remember, cigarette butts, twist ties, and food scraps like peanut shells, orange peels and
apple cores are all trash. Pack it in, pack it out!
Human Waste
Human waste carryout is required. It is mandatory to carry out all solid human waste with an approved portable
toilet system. An approved portable toilet system must be reusable, washable, water tight, and Sanitizing Container
with Advanced Technology (SCAT) Machine® compatible, or RV dump compatible. Portable toilets with snap on
lids (such as ammo cans or plastic buckets) are required to have a rubber gasket in the lid.
Plastic bag liners are NOT acceptable nor are WAG BAG®, RESTOP 2® or any other type of plastic bag system.
Information about appropriate, inexpensive methods to dispose of human waste is available from the BLM.
Please do not put wet wipes, plastic bags, peat pots, cans, diapers, ashes, straw, cat litter or other debris in your
toilet if you plan on using the SCAT machine. The SCAT Machine is for use with toilets not utilizing plastic bags or
peat pot liners and can clog or get damaged if foreign objects are put through the cycle.
Please urinate only on wet sand or directly into the river. Urinating on hot, dry sand or rocks creates an offensive
odor and attracts insects. If your group uses a pee bucket, please dump it into the main current of the river.
Personal Flotation Devices
Federal boating requirements state all recreational vessels must carry one U.S. Coast Guard approved Type I, II, III
or V wearable personal flotation device for each person on board that is within reach, in good condition and is the
correct size and fit. It does not help you if it’s not on you; please wear it while on the water!
In the state of Idaho, children 14 and under must wear an approved personal flotation device when they are on board
of a boat 19’ in length or less whenever the boat is underway or under power. This applies to manually propelled
watercraft such as canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and rafts in addition to powerboats, sailboats, jet skis and
fishing float tubes.
6
Safety
Recommended Equipment
•
•
•
•
•
•
First aid kit; know what is in it and how to use it.
Boat repair kit; know what is in it and how to use it.
Carry at least one extra oar or paddle and personal floatation device per boat.
Throw bags and pin or wrap kits.
Consider packing a satellite phone or a GPS communication device.
Sand stake to anchor your boat at beaches.
River Safety
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Wear your life jacket. Remember that personal flotation devices only work when you have them on.
Plan for all kinds of weather; even hot, sunny days can turn cool and rainy, creating hypothermia conditions.
When in doubt, scout.
When in trouble, be active.
Get yourself out of trouble first, then help others. Worry about your gear only after all people are safe.
Most accidents happen on shore and in camp. Be cautious getting in and out of boats.
Wet rocks can be slippery. Watch your step.
Rattlesnakes, bees, cactus, and poison ivy are all plentiful in the Lower Salmon River corridor. Learn how to
avoid them and how to treat the symptoms of an encounter.
Couch Wave at River Mile 103, courtesy Mike Hicks
Drinking Water
Although water quality is high, river water is not considered potable without treatment or filtering due to the possible presence of Giardia. Bring your own drinking water or plan to filter or boil stream and river water. There are
several recreation sites with potable drinking water but nothing downstream from Pine Bar.
Forest Fires
During the summer, forest fires are a common occurrence along the Salmon River corridor. Please check local fire
information for any fire restrictions prior to your trip.
Have a plan
Tell someone where you are going and when you will be returning.
7
In Case of Emergency
Note your location in an emergency and call 911 or the local sheriff ’s office:
Idaho County Sheriff
(208) 983-1100
Lewis County Sheriff
(208) 937-2447
(208) 799-3131
Nez Perce County Sheriff
BLM
(208) 962-3245, Monday-Friday, 7:45 am - 4:30 pm Pacific Time
The BLM carries a satellite phone for emergency purposes on river patrols.
River Etiquette
Although you may find solitude on the Lower Salmon River, you will not be alone. Your actions will directly affect
the experience of others on the river and the river itself. River users come to the Lower Salmon for many reasons,
but none of them come expecting to find difficult situations with others. Following a few simple guidelines will help
ensure that the journey down the river is a positive experience for everyone on the water.
Camping
Please camp at a beach appropriate to your group size. Small groups should leave large camps for bigger groups.
“Camp running” is not allowed, as it creates the stress of hurrying - exactly what most boaters go to the river to
avoid. There are usually plenty of camp spots. Set your own leisurely pace, select a camp that fits your group size,
and relax. On rare occasions, you may be asked to share a camp with a late arrival. Be courteous, make new friends,
and continue to enjoy your trip!
Breaking Camp
Before departing your camp, naturalize the beach by scattering unburned driftwood piles and rocks that were used
as tent stakes, sand anchors or tie downs. Destroy your sand castles and structures, and knock down your rock
cairns. Do a final beach sweep before leaving camp to make sure you haven’t left any micro trash or belongings.
Leave your beach clean and natural for the next group.
Dogs
If you bring a dog along, keep it under control at all times, use a collar with identifying tags and pack out all dog feces. All dogs must be on a leash at developed recreation sites such as boat ramps and campgrounds. Out of respect
for other visitors and private property owners, keep dogs contained when near private property and popular attraction sites (rapid scouts, historical sites).
Technology and Noise
To some, technology is a necessity even in remote, wild settings. To others, it is inappropriate. Avoid conflicts by
making a conscious effort to allow everyone his or her own experience. As much as possible, keep the noise down.
Sound travels easily in the river corridors, so be aware of your group’s noise level, especially as you pass other’s
camps. Use headphones to listen to music or listen to the sounds of nature.
River Encounters
Communication and common sense are the keys to successful interaction with other river users. Your trip will be
much safer and more enjoyable if you give other boaters lots of space, especially in rapids. Powerboats have always
been allowed on these rivers. Although they can be infrequent on the Lower Salmon River, they are very common
on the Snake River.
• Downstream drift traffic has the right-of-way. However, once a jet boat is committed to powering upstream
through a rapid it cannot stop and should be given the right-of-way.
• Float boats should yield the deeper channel to powerboats when possible and move toward the side to give them
room to operate safely.
• Powerboats should be aware of and minimize their wake when passing another craft.
The river is large enough to accommodate both float boats and powerboats. Common sense, safety and courtesy will
help avoid confrontational behavior which will ensure peaceful coexistence for all users.
8
Hammer Creek boat ramp, Ryan Turner BLM
BOAT Ramp ETIQUETTE
Because river trips start and end on the boat ramp, your experience there can set the tone for the entire voyage and
color your memories of the adventure long after it ends. If the ramp is busy, be patient and wait your turn. When
it comes, use the ramp only for loading and unloading your vehicle and trailer. Rig and de-rig your boat off of the
ramp. Allow others to go before you if all they have to do is put a loaded boat in the water and take off. Be friendly,
helpful, and considerate and enjoy this part of your trip.
After Your Trip
Human Waste Disposal
Dispose stored human waste appropriately at the following locations:
• Asotin, Washington—Chief Looking Glass Park on 1st Street (SCAT Machine© and RV dump station)
• South Riggins, Idaho—Hells Canyon National Recreation Area Office (Forest Service) at 1339 Highway 95
(SCAT Machine© only)
• White Bird, Idaho—Hammer Creek Recreation Site at river mile 52 (RV dump station only)
Trash Disposal
Recycle or properly dispose of all the trash from your trip.
Lost gear
If you lose or leave any gear on the river, contact the BLM. We maintain a sizable inventory of “lost and found”
items! BLM Cottonwood Field Office: 208-962-3245
Let Us Know How It Went
If you encountered any problems on your trip, or have suggestions about how BLM can enhance river recreation
experiences, we would like to hear from you.
Bureau of Land Management Cottonwood Field Office
2 Butte Drive, Cottonwood, Idaho 83522
(208) 962-3245
9
The Wreckreationist
This sculpture is located at the launch site at Hammer Creek and was constructed in 2004. It is built from the trash
collected from the Salmon River and its banks. Hopefully, it creates an awareness to the impacts people have on the
river environment. Look for a fisherman, a catarafter, a jet boater, and a hunter surrounding a tree, a sun, and birds.
Thanks to the young men and women from Homedale High School, Center Point High School, and Fort Boise MidHigh School who created this sculpture in welding class. This project made possible through the
leadership of Evan Worthington and a grant from the
Wittenburger Foundation and the Idaho Commission
of the Arts.
BLM river patrol has removed over 8000 tires from
the river. Approximately 1 ton of trash is removed
every year. PLEASE…remember to pack out all of
your trash and trash left by others.
The Wreckreationist, Evan Worthington BLM
Conservation Easements
The Lower Salmon River recreation and conservation project has been part of a priority management effort for
Congress and the BLM since 1991. Through multiple acquisitions of land and interest in land, the BLM has been able
to preserve the river in its unique beauty and character for future generations. These fee ownership and conservation easement acquisitions achieve goals and objectives identified in the Cottonwood Resource Management Plan,
including preservation of the canyon’s exquisite beauty and protection of the many special species that inhabit the
waters and lands of the second deepest canyon in the county. The primary effort of the BLM, in cooperation with
volunteer and willing landowners, has been to preserve the canyon through conservation easement acquisitions on
private lands. The primary benefit of this effort is to promote working ranches as part of an important economic
driver within the region while working with those ranchers to preserve the canyon as an open space with spectacular
views. Private lands with current and future scenic conservation easements will always have the same views you see
today; clear waters pouring in from their tributaries; preserved fish, big game, and upland game bird habitat; and
limited home and road development. Those same conservation easements contain provisions for the continued production of beef; promotion of healthy working forests; and providing ranching, forestry, and recreation jobs to local
communities.
Past and future conservation acquisitions are completed without the use of taxpayer dollars. Funding for the acquisitions is from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) program, which as a special fund appropriated by
Congress each year. The primary source of money for the LWCF is generated from royalties of offshore oil and gas
leases where Congress may appropriate up to $900 million annually to the fund. Four Federal agencies and local
communities from every State are eligible to receive LWCF monies for various conservation and recreation projects.
Since 1995, the BLM has received a total of $13,398,460 for the acquisition of 15,801 acres in fee simple ownership
and 9,781 acres of conservation easement interest on the Lower Salmon River and areas of the Craig Mountain
Wildlife Management Area along the Salmon and Snake Rivers.
10
Snowhole Wilderness Study Area
The unique natural values of the 5,332 acre Snowhole Wilderness Study Area (WSA) are protected through the
continuing implementation of the Lower Salmon River Recreation Management Plan and the Lower Salmon River
Cultural Resource Management Plan. The WSA is withdrawn from all forms of appropriation under the mining
laws by formal withdrawal enacted in 1986, meaning, there will be no impacts from mineral exploration or development under the recommendation that the entire WSA would be open to off-highway vehicle (OHV) use. Currently
there is no land-based OHV use and it is unlikely to occur in the near future simply due to the rugged topographic
features of the Salmon River Canyon within the WSA. Livestock use is currently authorized at historical levels.
The recreational values of this WSA are outstanding. The Lower Salmon River, 20 miles of which pass through this
WSA, provides nationally recognized whitewater rafting opportunities. Based upon the percentage of the WSA area
to the total river corridor, recreation use within the WSA is currently estimated at 8500 annual user days. Recreation
activities associated with river running include fishing, camping, hiking, hunting and sightseeing. The recommendation will protect and enhance the recreational values of this WSA and accommodate increased use.
Wild AND SCENIC RIVERS
The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 designated 237 miles of the Salmon River, from the mouth of the North Fork
of the Salmon to the confluence of the Salmon and Snake Rivers, to be studied for potential inclusion in the National
Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
The Salmon River Wild and Scenic Rivers study was completed in 1973 and the recommendation to Congress included the entire 237 miles in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. The study recommended that the segment from North Fork to Corn Creek be designated as Recreational; the segment from Corn Creek to Long Tom Bar
as Wild; the segment from Long Tom Bar to Hammer Creek as Recreational; and the segment from Hammer Creek
to the Snake River as Scenic. Outstandingly Remarkable Values (ORVs) include fishery and wildlife; archeology and
historical;