LORA KNIGHT / Scroll
Beaver Dick park was one location under consideration for a state park.

A committee of 17 members appointed by the governor narrowed 34 nominations of land down to two possible sites for Idaho’s next state park.

Donna Benfield, executive director of Rexburg Chamber of Commerce helped develop the criteria against which the nominated plots of land were judged.

Speaking in favor of the land near Rexburg that was named “Rising Butte” because of proposed trail leading to the Menan Butte, Benfield said, “We think [Beaver Dick is] the best choice. It already meets the most criteria.”

Supporters argue that the land in Firth is privately owned and will cost $4.5 million to develop, whereas Beaver Dick is already owned by the city and managed by the Madison County Parks and Recreation Department.

In October, the Idaho State Park Department launched a campaign for the public to voice their opinion through open houses and public meetings.

Although the Parks and Recreation Department has made a choice, there is a stipulation regarding the level of floodplain at Rising River, Benfield said. If the level of the floodplain is too low, then the committee will appoint Rising Butte as the next state park.

“We still have a chance,“ said Benfield.

A proposition will then go to the Idaho State Park Department and then to the legislature for final approval.