The Lower Boise River has long been central to life in the region, first serving Native American tribes for seasonal gatherings and later attracting trappers, miners, and settlers who relied on its waters for trade and agriculture. Over time, human development transformed the river into a regulated system through dams and diversions to support irrigation, flood control, and urban growth. Once heavily polluted, the river has seen major cleanup efforts, though habitat changes have reduced biodiversity. Today, the City of Boise and its partners are working to protect water quality, restore ecosystems, and ensure public access. While the river can’t return to its original state, community action and stewardship can preserve its health for future generations.
Lower Boise River
Welcome to the Lower Boise River. Explore the river’s history and discover how habitat and water quality changes have influenced local ecosystems and driven local restoration efforts.
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The History of Our River
The Boise River was a precious resource long before modern-day neighborhoods, commerce and recreation arrived in Boise. Meet some of the people who gathered at its banks and relied on its waters for hundreds of years.
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Habitat Changes
Human settlement since the 1860s has slowly transformed the river from a free-flowing and changing system to one that is channeled and regulated. Learn about the impacts these changes have had on life in and around the river.
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Pollution and Clean-Up of the River
Once considered the most polluted river in Idaho, the Boise River was a receptable for waste of all kinds, from slaughterhouse and industrial dumping to trash and raw sewage. Today, ongoing community clean-up and pollution-prevention efforts help keep the Boise River clean.
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Lower Boise River Wildlife
Due to changes in habitat, the Boise River has experienced a decline in the variety and number of species over the years. Efforts are underway to develop a tool that will help determine where preservation or restoration efforts are needed most.
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Restoring the River
The City of Boise is working with community partners to coordinate restoration projects in the Boise River watershed that will improve water quality, provide for public safety, preserve or enhance habitat and sustain healthy ecosystems.
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The Future of the Lower Boise River
As industry and population grow, so does the demand for clean water and a sustainable watershed. It is vital that Boise grows with our river in mind. The City of Boise is working together with partners and the community to protect water quality, riparian habitat and public access.
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What You Can Do
While we can’t return the river to its natural state, we can take steps to keep the river healthy and accessible for generations to come. Through education, volunteering and individual actions, every citizen in the lower Boise River watershed can have a positive impact on our river.
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