Supporting Planning at McCroskey State Park

This field note highlights a research project at McCroskey State Park aimed at scoping amenity development and preserving the Palouse Prairie. By engaging park stakeholders and tribal partners, the project gathered valuable insights into visitor use, attitudes, and perceptions, which will inform future planning and management efforts.

Point Sublime Technical Report

Key Findings:

• Participant Interviews: 13 interviews were conducted with representatives from various organizations, including the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Friends of McCroskey State Park, and the Idaho Native Plant Society, along with park volunteers and adjacent landowners.

• Recreational Activities: Motorized use along Skyline Drive was the most common activity, followed by hiking, camping, off-roading, and picnicking.
  

• Management Implications:

  • Protecting the native Palouse Prairie was a major concern for over half the participants.

  • Updated interpretive signage was recommended to enhance user awareness and visitor experience.

  • Zoning for different types of recreation could help reduce conflicts and resource impacts.

  • Increased ranger presence was suggested to curb illegal activities and reduce resource damage.

  • Collaboration between state agencies, private landowners, conservation organizations, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, and community stakeholders is essential for sustainable stewardship.
    

The insights from this research will support Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation in making informed decisions to balance recreation with preservation at McCroskey State Park.