STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK
Wanted: $4.5 million by Oct. 28 to help preserve the Warm Springs Preserve, perhaps better known as Ketchum’s dog park.
The City of Ketchum is hoping citizens will donate another $4.5 million by April 28, 2022, to preserve 65 acres of open space, which is threatened with significant development.
The city has launched a campaign to raise $9 million to purchase the property, which is part of the Warm Springs Ranch where the Warm Springs Restaurant, golf course and tennis courts used to stand. The property is the only significant undeveloped property left in the city where flood plain and native riparian corridor can be restored.
The city wants to purchase the property from developer Bob Brennan, who already has started developing 14 acres where the tennis courts used to sit for single-family residences. If successful, the city would also seek $1 million for a water-conscious irrigation system and restoration improvements.
“This is our chance to preserve a special part of Ketchum, not only for ourselves, but for generations to come,” said Mayor Neil Bradshaw. “I hope the community can come together and seize this unique opportunity.”
The city wants to preserve green space and public access in perpetuity. It would build a connector trail and restrooms and allow informal gatherings and activities, such as disc golf, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing.
No organized sports or weddings and other reserved private or commercial events would be allowed.
The City has contracted with the Spur Community Foundation to act as the custodian of funds. To make a donation, visit https://spur.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create?funit_id=1066. Or, contact the foundation’s executive director Sally Gillespie at 208-450-2507 or sally@spurfoundation.org
The city is prepared to cover the existing annual operating costs. The current zoning allows for up to 180 multi-family units and two single-family homes should the city’s efforts fall through.
To learn more, visit www.warmspringspreserve.org or email warmspringspreserve@gmail.com