Ketchum Launches Warm Springs Preserve Donation Campaign

The City of Ketchum today announces its launch to preserve a 65-acre parcel of open space, Warm Springs Preserve. The property is currently part of the Warm Springs Ranch.

Warm Springs Preserve is the only significant undeveloped property in the city where the floodplain and native riparian corridor can be restored.

The city seeks to raise $9 million to purchase the 65-acre parcel and $1 million for a water conscious irrigation system and restoration improvements.

To meet the purchase requirements in the Option Agreement between the city and the owner of Warm Springs Ranch, the city must raise $4.5 million by October 28, 2021 and the remaining $4.5 million by April 28, 2022.

"This is our chance to preserve a special part of Ketchum, not only for ourselves, but for generations to come," said Mayor Neil Bradshaw." I hope the community can come together and seize this unique opportunity."

Once the property is acquired, the following priorities will be established in perpetuity; preservation of green space and public access, Warm Springs Creek riparian zone and floodplain restoration, water conscious irrigation system, connector trail, informal gatherings and activities such as disc golf, Nordic ski and snowshoe trails and a public restroom.

Restrictions on the property include development, organized sports and reserved private or commercial events such as weddings.

After the acquisition of the property, the community will be engaged in a full-planning process to consider any other site improvement.

To learn more about the Preserve, visit www.warmspringspreserve.org or email warmspringspreserve@gmail.com

The city has contracted with the Spur Community Foundation to act as the custodian of funds. To make a donation or receive more information, visit https://spur.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create?funit_id=1066, or contact the Spur Community Foundation Executive Director Sally Gillespie at 208.450.2507 or sally@spurfoundation.org.