New Rules Proposed for Idaho Lake

NAMPA, Idaho (AP) — Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge near Nampa has released a management plan for Lake Lowell that would still allow waterskiing but restrict the areas where speedboats can operate.

The Idaho Press-Tribune reports that the plan would extend some no-wake zones and create new ones in other areas. It would also create a 500-yard closure around active and historical nesting colonies of Western grebes, a protected waterfowl. Lake Lowell is an important spot for migratory shorebirds and waterfowl, but it's also a popular recreation area.

Unlike some alternatives under consideration, the plan allows walking, jogging, bicycling, horseback riding and on-leash dog walking. Deer Flat officials say the plan balances the needs of wildlife and people. It's up to the regional director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to approve or modify it.