Established as a refuge for migratory birds and other wildlife in 1909, Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is one of the oldest refuges in the country. The lake was originally built as a reservoir to supply water for irrigation. Thousands of people visit the lake each year to swim, boat, hunt, fish and enjoy nature. The refuge is open from sun-up to sundown and always free.

“We encourage everyone to be safe while visiting the lake,” said Edward Owens, project leader for Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge. “We are especially grateful to Canyon County Marine Patrol for helping to monitor activity on the lake and make sure it is safe for all.”

Loaner life jackets are available for boaters and swimmers at the east end of the Upper Dam, the Lower Dam Recreation Area and at Parking Lot 1. While recreating at Lake Lowell and the refuge, it is important that visitors follow federal, state and local regulations.

Refuge visitors can enjoy watching for fishing osprey and bald eagles, surface-nesting western and Clark’s grebes, and many other animals that will also be using the lake this summer. To protect wildlife, especially those nesting along and in the water, there are no-wake zones established on the southeast end of the lake, through the narrows and in a 200-yard zone on the south side of the lake.

In addition to participating in water-based recreation, refuge visitors are invited to enjoy wildlife and nature as they hike one of the short or long refuge trails. The refuge visitor center offers views of lake and upland wildlife from the observation room, hands-on kids’ activities, and opportunities to learn about local wildlife and refuge activities. The visitor center (13751 Upper Embankment Road) is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

Refuge regulations are available at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/deer-flat/visit-us/rules-policies.

For additional information and refuge maps, please visit https://fws.gov/refuge/deer-flat.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. For more information, visit https://www.fws.gov/about/region/pacific and connect with us on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Flickr, and YouTube.

The volunteer camp host will receive a $200/month stipend and a complimentary RV site at Martin Landing that includes sewer, water, and electricity. The camp host must be on duty Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and all national holidays, during the camping season from April 1, 2024, through October 31, 2024. The primary purpose of a volunteer camp host is to assist and provide basic security for campers at Martin Landing. The duties of a camp host include the following:

• Monitoring the public use of the area
• General trash pickup
• General cleaning and stocking of restrooms
• Track and record campground usage
• Inspect and clean campsites

Camp hosts work closely with Canyon County Park, Cultural & Natural Resources (CCPCNR), and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) to provide recreational opportunities in campgrounds. CCPCNR manages camping at Martin Landing. Although the camp host represents both agencies, his or her default supervision will be by CCPCNR.

For more information on the volunteer camp host position and or to apply, please get in touch with alex.eells@canyoncounty.id.gov. Please note: an interview and a criminal background check will be required for qualified applicants.

Canyon County Parks, Cultural & Natural Resources and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game are looking for a volunteer camp host to oversee basic maintenance, camping, and recreation activities at Martin Landing, which is located near Parma at the confluence of the Boise and Snake Rivers.