The City of Ketchum has launched its collection effort to preserve the 65-acre parcel of open space called Warm Springs Preserve. The property is currently part of the Warm Springs Ranch.
Warm Springs Preserve is the only significant undeveloped property in the city where the floodplain and native riparian corridor can be restored. And the city seeks to raise $9 million to purchase the 65-acre parcel and $1 million for a water-conscious irrigation system and restoration improvements. To meet the purchase requirements in the Option Agreement between the city and the owner of Warm Springs Ranch, the city must raise $4.5 million by October 28, 2021, and the remaining $4.5 million by April 28, 2022.
“This is our chance to preserve a special part of Ketchum, not only for ourselves, but for generations to come,” said Mayor Neil Bradshaw, who announced his reelection effort in recent days, too. “I hope the community can come together and seize this unique opportunity.”
The city has contracted with the Spur Community Foundation to act as the custodian of funds. To make a donation or receive more information, contact Spur Community Foundation Executive Director Sally Gillespie at (208) 450-2507 or at sally@spurfoundation.org.
Once the property is acquired, the following priorities will be established in perpetuity:
- Preservation of green space and public access
- Warm Springs Creek riparian zone and floodplain restoration
- Water-conscious irrigation system
- Connector trail
- Informal gatherings and activities such as disc golf, Nordic ski
- Snowshoe trails
- Public restroom
Restrictions on the property include development, organized sports and reserved private or commercial events such as weddings.
After the acquisition of the property, the community will be engaged in a full-planning process to consider any other site improvement. To learn more about the Preserve, visit www.warmspringspreserve.org or email warmspringspreserve@gmail.com.