Commissioners pass camping ban

COLFAX - A new ordinance bans camping on Whitman County right-of-ways along a 27-mile stretch of the Snake River.

Passed unanimously by county commissioners on Aug. 2. The move followed a public hearing with no testimony.

Concerns from the county health department and Whitman County Fire District 12 about encampments along the river led to the decision.

Camping is banned within 500 feet of the centerline of Wawawai Road along the designated stretch, except for places marked specifically for camping. Violators are face trespassing charges.

The matter stems from an unauthorized camp with several...