Recreational sites along lower Snake River to reopen

The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers will reopen six recreational areas along the lower Snake River for Labor Day weekend after summer closures due to staffing shortages. Corps spokesperson Dylan Peters confirmed that five new staff members have been hired to manage the sites, which had been closed earlier this year following a federal hiring freeze. The reopening schedule includes Blyton Landing and Willow Landing Recreation Area on Friday, with additional sites like Lambi Creek and Riparia Recreation Area set to reopen later in September.

Peters highlighted that the agency's ability to provide public access is balanced with employee safety and work schedules. The closures were initiated in April due to a loss of natural resource management personnel exacerbated by the federal hiring freeze and a voluntary resignation program. Four additional recreational areas are expected to remain closed until 2026. Peters noted that the agency is still navigating the challenges posed by the hiring freeze while trying to serve the public effectively. The reopening will offer local residents and visitors renewed opportunities for recreation along the river.