The Boise City Council has approved the purchase of 840 acres of land adjacent to the City of Boise’s popular Stack Rock Reserve.
Located about nine miles from Boise near the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, Stack Rock Reserve is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists.
The purchase, which officials say will considerably expand the 1,320-acre reserve, will help protect wildlife habitat and native plants – as well as increasing future recreational opportunities and preserving the headwaters of Spring Valley Creek, which is a tributary to the Boise River.
Council members approved the purchase from AR Boise LLC during Tuesday’s regular noon Council meeting.
“Conserving these 840 acres offers further protection around Stack Rock and we look forward to the recreational opportunities this land will provide for our citizens,” said Boise City Council President Elaine Clegg.
Under the agreement, the City of Boise would pay $500 per acre -- with a total purchase price of $420,000. Money from the property purchase will come from the Foothills Levy Fund approved by voters in 2001, leaving approximately $118,000 in that fund.
“This allows us to expand this special area that’s known for its unique geologic features, forested habitat and connection to surrounding public lands,” said Boise City Council President Pro-Tem Lauren McLean.
The City of Boise’s original purchase of the Stack Rock Reserve in 2010 was made possible through a $1 million donation by Fred Alleman.
“This is a unique opportunity to leverage and expand the Stack Rock Reserve and its impact on preserving the Boise Foothills,” Boise Mayor David Bieter said. “Love of the Boise Foothills is a deeply-instilled value in our community. This purchase will help us preserve and protect this invaluable resource and source of pride for generations to come.”
