PUBLIC LANDS -- Illia Dunes recreation area on the Snake River is in the process of being reopened today after U.S. Corps of engineers staff and select volunteers cleaned-up trash from an unexpected party that attracted 1,800 partiers on Sept. 6. The area was closed for safety and a reservoir drawdown was required to clean up glass and debris.
The Corps of Engineers, which manages the riverside recreation area along Almota Ferry Road, says the future use of the area is in the hands of visitors. More damaging use could force restrictions, such a ban on alcohol.
"The popular beach and shallow water area downstream from Lower Granite Lock and Dam had been closed to public use on Sunday, Sept. 7, due to environmental damage, and potential public health and safety concerns after an unexpected crowd of about 1,800 people on Saturday, Sept. 6, left significant amounts of trash and human waste," says the press release just issued by the Corps Walla Walla District.
- A similar large, messy gathering forced closure of the area in August 2012 .
The Corps' Natural Resources Management staff coordinated with two organized groups of volunteers -- the Associated Students of Washington State University (ASWSU) and WSU's Center for Civic Engagement -- who offered to help in today's cleanup.
Recreation is allowed at the area, but it's primary function is for wildlife habitat, Corps officials said.
"The Corps has the option of banning alcohol consumption on Corps lands at any time, and such bans are in place at several locations in the region." officials said. "While alcohol consumption at Illia Dunes is not banned at this time, underage drinking is not allowed."
State laws prohibit driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs and drugs such as marijuana are prohibited on federal lands, even if state law allows it.
Conducting special events on Corps property is prohibited without a special-use permit.
Glass containers are banned on the Dunes, and the Corps provides free trash bags for visitors to use for "pack it in, pack it out" trash removal.
