Updated Condition of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs

Release Date: May 5, 2017

A recent visit by Forest Service officials to the Jerry Johnson recreation site, located along Highway 12 on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, shows some improvement to the condition of one of the lower hot springs pools.

Following a high water event in late March, two of the three pools at the Jerry Johnson site filled with silt and debris. Officials report that, as of April 19, 2017, one of the lower pools is beginning to increase in size, and that the amount of debris in the water is decreasing. The condition of the other lower pool remains the same. The larger upper pool remains unaffected by the high water event.

Once spring flows level off, officials will be better able to assess how the high water event may have impacted hydrology at the site. Peak flows usually occur around Memorial Day.

The Forest Service reminds visitors that, while the Jerry Johnson recreation site remains open for public use, please do not attempt to dig out new pools or otherwise alter natural features of the area. There is no guarantee that you will find a “hot spot” where one previously existed. Furthermore, damaging natural resources may result in a $250 fine (36 CFR 261.9(a)).

For more information, please contact Kearstin Edwards at the Lochsa/Powell Ranger District: (208) 926-4274.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Updated photo of one of the lower pools at the Jerry Johnson recreation site, taken April 19, 2017. USFS photo.

 

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