Removing fallen trees and burning debris along the river banks may seem like a humdrum part of river maintenance, but Steve Stuebner with Boise River Flood Control District #10 said this yearly upkeep is a key factor in preventing disaster.
“During the winter of 2017, when we had epic flooding, it was abundantly clear how important that kind of work is," said Stuebner.
Stuebner said fallen trees and other debris buildup can back water up at bridges. Once the water begins to rise, these pinch points can lead to major damage during a flood.
"[It could cause] water to go potentially on the top of the bridges or even cause the bridges to fail,” Stuebner said
He said during this period, smoke will be seen occasionally along the river, and reminds people it’s just part of this maintenance. The work shouldn’t affect access to greenbelt.
The maintenance will happen between the Western Idaho Fairgrounds and Caldwell and begin this month.
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