Oral Presentation Society for Freshwater Science 2025 Annual Meeting

The Story of the Boise River: Past, Present, and Future Conditions (116738)

Benjamin D Block 1 , Dorene MacCoy 2 , Jennifer Stamp 1 , David Blew 3
  1. Tetra Tech, VT, United States
  2. Public Works, City of Boise, Boise, Idaho
  3. Consultant, Boise, Idaho

The story of the lower Boise River, in Idaho, is one of frequent and substantial change. This presentation describes a collaborative science communication project, using ArcGIS StoryMaps, to convey the past, present, and future conditions of the lower Boise River (Boise R.). We have leveraged subject matter experts, community members, and graphic designers to develop engaging and informative content. The project targets water-conscious stakeholders, particularly irrigators and water managers, who may have divergent goals from recreational users and conservationists. Using historical and physical data as well as multimedia content, the StoryMaps will explore how human presence has changed river habitat, water quality, and aquatic life. The narratives will cover historic tribal salmon fishing, European colonization, the fur trade and beaver population eradication, mining, farming, homesteading, and urbanization of the river valley. The StoryMaps will also cover key changes including water control for irrigation and flood prevention through substantial dam and diversion construction projects. These hydrologic changes and poor water quality led to the Boise R. being one of the most degraded rivers in the Nation before the passage of the Clean Water Act. Fortunately, the Boise R. has recovered due to clean water regulations, advanced water renewal facilities, and persistent pollution cleanup efforts. This project will also look to the future, exploring potential improvements to aquatic life. Biological Condition Gradient (BCG) model results, derived from expert consensus, will be used to examine how changes in habitat and water quality have shaped present-day aquatic life and future restoration potential. Lastly, the collection will highlight current and future restoration projects and provide opportunities for volunteerism and civic engagement. Through this collection of information, we aim to equip water managers and stakeholders with the knowledge to address the diverse challenges facing the future of the Boise R.