DEQ to host open house on water quality and proposed subdivision near Henrys Lake
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ISLAND PARK —- The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will host a public open house next week to discuss water quality requirements associated with the controversial Caldera Flats subdivision proposed near Henrys Lake.
The open house is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 28, at the Fremont County EMS Building, 4395 County Circle Road in Island Park.
The meeting will focus on DEQ’s draft Section 401 water quality certification for the proposed development.
DEQ’s draft Section 401 water quality certification is a preliminary determination of whether the proposed development meets state water quality standards, as required under the federal Clean Water Act for certain projects requiring federal permits.
DEQ representatives will be available to explain the certification process, discuss the agency’s regulatory authority and answer questions from the public.
The meeting comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed Caldera Flats subdivision, which has drawn opposition from residents concerned about potential impacts on wetlands, wildlife habitat and the natural landscape surrounding Henrys Lake.
The Fremont County Planning and Zoning Commission previously denied the subdivision application, citing concerns about protecting agricultural land, wetlands and wildlife habitat.
RELATED: County upholds subdivision approval; new Henrys Lake Flats Coalition plans challenge
However, Fremont County commissioners overturned that decision in July, voting 2-1 to approve the development. The commissioners later denied a request to reconsider their decision.
The newly formed Henrys Lake Flats Coalition is preparing to challenge the county’s approval in court and is encouraging residents concerned about preserving the flats to attend the open house.
“Human development often disturbs and displaces wildlife and their habitat,” said coalition spokesperson Jean Bjerke. “Many of us have been deeply concerned about proposals in recent years for an air park, a large hotel and conference center, and now a housing development on the wetlands of the Henrys Lake Flats.”
While the county’s decision addresses land-use approval, DEQ’s certification process focuses specifically on whether the project complies with applicable water quality requirements.
The Oct. 28 gathering is an informational open house, not a formal public hearing. Attendees should enter through the doors on the west end of the building.
For additional information, contact DEQ Regional Water Quality Manager Alex Bell at Alex.Bell@deq.idaho.gov.