Woods Creek (Bates Road) Park Master Plan

The 101-acre property is well known for moose sightings, sandhill cranes, raptors and other birds, as well as providing a large, unfragmented area for wildlife access to the Teton River. It contains wetlands recognized in the National Wetland Inventory on over 50% of the site.

Some of these wetlands support the Woods Creek Fen, a state designated unique wetland containing peat soils that support several rare species and high biodiversity value.

Because the property is flanked on the east and west by the electrical substation and wastewater treatment plant and contains two overhead power lines, it is best suited to uses that are compatible with public utility infrastructure. A portion of the property is designated for future wastewater treatment expansion, and so will not contain permanent buildings or other development. Wetlands are protected at both the local and federal levels; regulations limit the potential for development in these areas but opportunities may exist for limited impacts and restoration or enhancement of wetlands at the site.

Despite these constraints, there is ample opportunity to create value for the community. The City, consultants, and stakeholders have created a list of potential appropriate uses which fulfill the City Council’s intent upon acquiring the property. This list represents uses which allow the City to preserve habitat and open space while serving public and municipal needs, such as utilities, services, and recreation. After compiling public input from this survey, a design process involving public stakeholders, landscape architects, biologists, engineers, and City officials was undertaken to create a preliminary master plan for the Bates Road property.