A $500,000 Donor Matching Challenge is Underway to Complete The Warm Springs Preserve Improvements

Funds raised thus far have already paid for the restoration and most trail and amenity improvements; participation in this donor match will help ensure the welcome and facility building, with restrooms, will be constructed as well.                                                              

Ketchum, ID — Thanks to overwhelming community support, the City of Ketchum successfully acquired the 65-acre Warm Springs Preserve property in 2022. The community-driven effort protected this public open space for generations to come. In less than one year, over $9 million was raised through a groundswell of more than 1,000 individual contributions, ranging from $7 to over $1 million. Construction is now underway to complete the restoration and improvements at the preserve. However, the welcome and utility building that many wanted to be included remains unfunded.

The acquisition of Warm Sprints Preserve, and subsequent restoration and improvements, have been made possible through a public-private partnership between the City of Ketchum and Wood River Land Trust, who is leading the property’s restoration efforts. The preserve is a popular community gathering space, providing public access to nature and outdoor activities for all ages. More than 200 users visit the preserve daily. It is also a vital environmental resource. The restoration of its natural plants, creek, and floodplain area will improve habitat for wildlife, enhance the surrounding watershed, and help prevent flooding. 

Construction to complete improvements and restoration at the preserve began in May and will continue through late summer 2025. Public access during construction remains open in the preserve’s southernmost portions, with only temporary spot closures taking place. The northernmost portions of the preserve are closed for public safety. Improvements currently funded and under construction include:

• regrading and restoration of the stream, floodplain, natural spaces, and plants;
• installation and improvements to trails, bridges, and water access (including ADA access);
• replacement of old, inefficient irrigation systems; and
• installation and improvements to utilities, roadway access and paving, and parking.

What is yet to be funded is the welcome/utility building at the entrance of the Preserve. It was slated to include:

• two ADA-accessible restrooms;
• storage for maintenance supplies and vehicles to extend the lifespan of equipment and improve upkeep of the property;
• additional utility access to the preserve, including electricity and water (for people and dogs);
• a donor wall and additional shade and seating; and
• displays to share maps, history, and information about the Preserve.

If not fully funded, the building would not be included as part of the project this year. But a new matching gift opportunity that is now available may make the building construction possible in 2025.

Generous donors Joyce Gordon and Eric Remais have just announced a $500,000 matching challenge for Warm Springs Preserve. All donations made to the preserve by August 15 will now be matched dollar for dollar (up to $500,000), doubling the impact of every gift.

“This preserve exists because our community came together to protect it,” said Mayor Neil Bradshaw. “Now, we have the opportunity to bring the vision for the Preserve closer to reality, including the construction of the Welcome building this year if enough donors participate in the matching gift opportunity. All together, these updates will help create a welcoming, functional space for all to enjoy year-round.”

Donations are being accepted through the City of Ketchum and are restricted exclusively for improvements to Warm Springs Preserve. Those interested in participating can donate online at warmspringspreserve.org. Donations by check can be made payable to the City of Ketchum with Warm Springs Preserve in the memo and dropped off at City Hall (191 5^th Street West) or mailed to PO Box 2315, Ketchum, ID 83340. Visit WarmSpringsPreserve.org for more information on the Preserve, including improvements and a construction schedule.

About the City of Ketchum The city of Ketchum is located in the Wood River Valley in south-central Idaho. Founded in 1880 during the mining boom, Ketchum is now regarded as one of the most popular destinations for winter and summer visitors due to its world-class skiing, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, restaurants, art galleries, and shopping. The city of Ketchum hosts the famous annual Wagon Days Parade, held on Labor Day weekend, and numerous other year-round attractions. Ketchum is home to more than 10,000 full- and part-time residents. For more information about the city of Ketchum, visit ketchumidaho.org.