Superbloom with Rio Applied Science and Engineering of Boise, Idaho have been selected to guide the master planning process for Warm Springs Preserve in Ketchum, Idaho. Thanks to overwhelming community support, the City of Ketchum has purchased the beloved Warm Springs Preserve – 65 acres of open space for the community to enjoy in perpetuity. The Preserve parallels over a mile of Warm Springs Creek, a tributary of the Big Wood River.
With the City of Ketchum, Superbloom x Rio will be collaborating to refine the project principles and kicking off a creative and meaningful engagement process with the Ketchum community. The first community input event last month started conversation about community ideas and preferences and reviewed the ecological/restoration and recreational potential of the site. These discussions aim to synthesize stakeholder input into an open space master plan that integrates with the existing context and future planning efforts of the Preserve.
Local river restoration experts Rio ASE are studying how to enhance and preserve the hydrologic landscape, expand wildlife & pollinator habitat and native plantings and improve flood conveyance. Public meetings with community members and stakeholder groups, technical and social analysis will provide the basis for a synthesized master plan for approaching and improving the site.
Formerly a golf course turned into an unofficial dog park and passive open space, the City and community partners are looking to enhance access, reduce water use from antiquated irrigation, and creating opportunities for ecological restoration. Priorities for the new Preserve include off-leash dog access, creek and habitat restoration, new water-conscious irrigation system, walking trails, informal gatherings and activities, Nordic ski and snowshoe trails, and public restrooms. Development, organized sports and reserved private or commercial events would be restricted to preserve the natural resources of this beautiful space (source: City of Ketchum). Learn more about this project here.
