Snake River Festival set June 2 at Boyer

At Boyer Park and Marina on June 2, The Port of Whitman County will host the second annual Snake River Family Festival to celebrate all the quality of life and economic benefits afforded to the region by the Columbia and Snake River waterways. The event is free and open to the public and will run from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday.

“Everything is looking fantastic,” said Linda Olson, port staff member who is organizing this year’s event. “Things have actually come together really well so far.”

The event will feature live music from local blues group Sammy Eubanks, food catered by Fork in the Road and ice cream provided by Ferdinand’s. There will also be plenty of activities available for kids to learn about local waterways, including an inflatable obstacle course, a “build your own barge” competition and a bean bag toss.

“This is really an educational festival,” Olson said.

Many government representatives and candidates have been invited. They include Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, challenger Lisa Brown, State Reps. Joe Schmick and Rep. Mary Dye, who will answer questions about their policy views related to the state’s river systems.

“We’re really hoping to open up the conversation about these sort of things,” Olson said.

The Bonneville Power Administration and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will have tables set up to give visitors answers to questions they may have about local waterways.

Salmon recovery will be a topic of discussion. It will be featured in an information tent where visitors can learn from experts about the river transportation and fish safety efforts undertaken by local dams.

Other groups will also be in attendance with information and booths.

A press release from the Port stressed the significance of these efforts and the crucial benefits the region’s waterways provide.

The Port hopes for 300 visitors at the festival, Olson said.