THOUSAND SPRINGS PRESERVE GIFTED TO STATE

HAGERMAN – Christmas came early to the State of Idaho today when Governor Jim Risch accepted a major gift from The Nature Conservancy – 310 acres of the Thousand Springs Preserve near Hagerman and a $1 million management endowment fund from the conservation organization.

The Preserve includes Ritter Island, two miles of Snake River riverfront and many springs and spring creeks, including the Minnie Miller Springs, which is one of the largest remaining natural spring complexes in the Thousand Springs area.

“This is a wonderful gift to the people of the State of Idaho from The Nature Conservancy,” said Risch. Not only are we receiving a unique piece of property that will be managed as a state park for future generations, the Conservancy has generously provided funding that will enable the state to care for this outstanding historic and natural site.”

The Nature Conservancy purchased the property in 1986 from the Ritter family who used the property for a private hunting and fishing retreat. The island contains the home and historic barn built by Minnie Miller, a Salt Lake City businesswoman who purchased the property in 1918 to create a state-of-the-art dairy and the world’s finest herd of Guernsey cattle.

Laura Hubbard, Idaho state director for The Nature Conservancy, said they see a bright future for the property. “Ritter Island adds another gem to the Thousand Springs complex, and ensures that future generations will be able to enjoy the natural beauty and interesting history of this area,” said Hubbard. “Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation shares our vision for the property and offers a bright future for all who love the Thousand Springs area. The new state park will allow public access while protecting the unique springs and wildlife habitat of the Middle Snake River.”

Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Director Bob Meinen was equally enthusiastic with the gift to the state. “Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation is excited about the potential the Ritter Island property presents,” said Meinen. “It is a very generous gift and we feel that the parcel will compliment the Thousand Spring’s State Park complex, offering a glimpse into Idaho’s agricultural heritage, enriching the experiences of visitors to the area.”

The new property will join a series of geologically unique state parks already managed by the department. The current state parks in the area are Malad Gorge, Billingsley Creek, Box Canyon and Niagara Springs. The Nature Conservancy played a role in the creation of Box Canyon and Billingsley Creek state parks as well.

There will be a transition period in opening Ritter Island, with Nature Conservancy volunteers and a caretaker continuing to work at the preserve and care for the facilities. The management endowment fund will be transferred to the state in the next 60 days.

The new state park does not affect the development of the state park slated for eastern Idaho between Firth and Blackfoot.

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