Nature Park Proposed on Weiser River in Midvale
Lane Williams had a dream of a river front park in Midvale where families could go to fish, picnic, hike, play in the water and enjoy nature in a peaceful setting. He wished for the park to be non-motorized.
The property is owned by Midvale Marketplace, a non-profit that funds community projects like the development of Lane’s land donation. At its first public meeting Monday night, Elsa Freeman, other Marketplace board members and several community members discussed the possibilities for the seven-acre property. It runs along the west side of the river behind the Church of Christ and connects with the Weiser River Trail. Most of it is east of the dike, but since the land was purchased in 2016 the river has mostly just left some swampy areas on the property.
Board member John Stuart suggested that the next meeting might include Mike Thomas of Weiser who was instrumental in developing the Weiser fishing pond, which took six years. To keep things in perspective, John reminded those present that this is a long-term project requiring people’s time, resources and knowledge. A plan will be required before any applications can be made for grants to help fund the project.
The next meeting will be August 12 at 5:30 at City Hall. Anyone who wants to share in Lane’s vision of a nature park is urged to attend.
