PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Melba, ID – Starting Friday, May 22nd, 2025, the Celebration Park boat ramp will be reopened to all access, as the
Phase I Boater Improvements project have been constructed. Improvements include new ADA access, parking lot
and pathway improvements, new boat ramp, docks, and gangways. The $600,000 project was funded in part by an
awarded $377,638 Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation (IDPR) Waterways Improvement Fund (WIF) grant.
*Please Note: The boat ramp area will be closed again for Phase 2 barb construction during later summer annual
low water flows. A brief closure of the boat ramp is anticipated to commence in August, 2026 to complete Phase II
of the Celebration Park Boater Improvements Project. Phase 2 will further improve and protect the motorized
boating facility. Work will consist of redesign and construction of an armored barb to protect the Phase I boat
ramp and dock improvements and prevent river scour and erosion. A $275,000 project, is funded in-part by a
$265,540 Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Waterways Improvement Fund grant award. Construction of
this final phase is expected to be completed later this fall. Updates will be posted on the website at:
www.canyoncounty.id.gov/parks
“For over 3 decades, this boat ramp has functioned as a boater access for the Snake River downstream of Swam
Falls Dam, including river access within the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey Conservation Area. This
boater access spot has been used by local fishing guides, jet boat groups, law enforcement, and the public for
decades” said Parks Director Nicki Schwend. “This project includes an upgraded, ADA-accessible design that will
help us better meet the needs of all boat user groups. We’re excited for this project and for all the continued
improvements happening at Celebration Park.”
For questions about this project or for construction updates, please contact Canyon County Parks at 208-454-
6884, or call the Celebration Park visitor center at 208-455-6022.