Gordon Forgey

Once again Illia Dunes is closed.

Illia Dunes is that wide stretch of beach on the Garfield County side of the Snake River downstream from Lower Granite Dam.

It is a popular gathering place for college students. It is also popular with boaters and families.

Two years ago the beach was closed because of debris left after about 3,000 college-aged partyers congregated there.

Now, the Illia Dunes is closed again.

The closure this time is for much the same reason: It was trashed over the weekend by a crowd of about 1,800.

Despite the availability of trash receptacles and public toilets, the partyers left mounds of trash, broken bottles and human waste.

It might have been a good party, but officials are disgusted with what was left behind and have closed the beach for health and safety reasons. They even have concerns about whether or not the river water is safe in the area.

The last time this happened, many from Washington State University and the University of Idaho made a pilgrimage to the site to help clean it up.

This time, it might not make any difference who comes to help clean up the mess. Officials may close the beach permanently. If not closure, strict rules, such as the banning of alcohol, may dramatically limit its use.

This will affect more than just young partyers. It will affect all those who are conscientious and careful in their the use of the dunes.

If the Illia Dunes remains closed, these partyers will have pooped on more than just sand.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher