1. United States
2. Idaho
3. Letter

The Henrys Lake Flats are an iconic and ecologically sensitive area that must be protected from destructive commercial development. Rezoning rural land to allow an airpark and massive hotel complex would irreparably damage this unique natural habitat. The proposed rezoning threatens the survival of numerous wildlife species that depend on the Flats, including grizzly bears, pronghorn, elk, and others officially designated as "species of greatest conservation need." This vast open space is vital for these animals to thrive. Fragmenting and destroying their habitat through intensive development would be devastating. Furthermore, the scale of these projects is completely out of character for the area and would forever mar the natural splendor that draws visitors. A sprawling 432-acre airpark with 32 residential lots and an industrial area, combined with a 132-room hotel, homes, employee housing and potential RV park, represents unchecked overdevelopment. The Henrys Lake Flats are an invaluable community asset that must be preserved for future generations to appreciate. Protecting this irreplaceable natural area from harmful rezoning and development proposals is crucial. There are other more suitable locations where sustainable growth can occur without sacrificing our precious open spaces and wildlife habitats.