The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is scaling back operations due to limited resources. That includes elements of Lower Granite Dam and Lock, just downriver from Clarkston. Part of the closure includes the parking area at the west end of D Street where it meets the Lewiston Bypass. The park and foot bridge across the bypass will remain open, but the restrooms and the parking lot will be closed.
They are also closing the Lower Granite Dam visitor center, except for school and VIP tours and Blyton Landing in Whitman County.
Little Goose Dam and Lock have elements on the chopping block as well. Lambi Creek, Willow Creek Recreation Areas will close as will the Illia Dunes.
Ice Harbor Dam and Lock and Lower Monumental are also undergoing cuts.
A representative of the Corps of Engineers says the closures are immediate, but temporary. They will re-open once their hiring freeze is over and they can assign people to maintain those areas.
