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A tributary of the Snake River, the Boise River flows for about 75 miles through southwestern Idaho, and is a popular destination among trout fishermen, kayakers, campers and other river enthusiasts. The headwaters of the Boise River originate in the Sawtooth Mountains, and the watershed encompasses approximately 4,100 square miles of diverse wildlife habitats, including alpine canyons, forest, rangeland, agricultural lands and urban areas.

Cottonwood, willows and maples as well as numerous species of wild flowers line the banks of the Boise River while eagles, osprey, great blue heron and many other birds frequent its shores. Deer, mink and beaver are often seen along the shore.

A proposal to mine upstream from where the 500,000 citizens of Treasure Valley live, work and play puts the river and families at risk. Toxic cyanide would be used to leach gold for the next 7 to 10 years in the headwaters of the Boise River. This type of mining was banned in Montana because of the widespread pollution it has caused, including drinking water contamination, fish kills and damage to private property.

Sierra Club is educating communities along the river's edges about the dangers of the mining process. Currently the Sierra Club is building a coalition of other local groups that are united in protecting the river from the threat this mine poses to the watershed, water supply and important fisheries.

For more information contact Jessica Ruehrwein at 208/384-1023.