The Nampa City Council has unanimously approved the annexation and zoning of nearly 260 acres near Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge, with plans for significant developments including:

• Residential Construction: The project involves building 189 homes primarily located along the perimeter of the site to maximize agricultural use in the center.
• Agricultural Commitment: Over half of the land (144 acres) is slated for agricultural purposes, while 20 acres are designated for commercial use. This includes a mix of different zoning types for single-family homes.
• Japanese Botanical Gardens: A key feature will be a Japanese botanical garden, which includes a five-acre pond and aims to honor the agricultural history of the land.
• Community Events: The development plans to host various family-friendly events, such as:
  • A Japanese cherry blossom festival
  • A fall harvest festival
  • A Christmas light festival
• Commercial Opportunities: The commercial area may include options for restaurants, retail stores, a farmers market, flower shops, and wineries, promoting local businesses and enhancing community offerings.
• Environmental Considerations: The plans include creating buffer zones to protect wildlife and waterways from future developments, and measures to address potential traffic and water supply concerns.

The approval process involved community input, with many expressing support for the project after discussions with the developers, who demonstrated a commitment to balance residential and agricultural needs while honoring local history.

About Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1909, is located in southwestern Idaho, just east of Lake Lowell. Covering approximately 12,000 acres, it provides habitats for wildlife, particularly migratory birds. The refuge is renowned for attracting hundreds of thousands of birds during migration periods.

The refuge consists of wetland, upland, and agricultural lands. The refuge offers opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing, making it a valuable recreational resource for the community.