Hagerman Valley Website Development Report

HAGERMAN VALLEY:

THE REAL IDAHO

FINAL WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT REPORT

December 2014

CONTENTS

FINAL WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT REPORT 3

PROJECT TEAM MEMBERS 3

I. APPROACH 5

Executive Summary 5

Methodology 7

Methods and Findings 8

Communication Strategy 18

II. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY 20

Design Aesthetic and Approach 20

Hagerman Valley Activities 24

Mobile Opportunities 33

III. NEXT STEPS 35

Website Development Timeline 35

Stage 1 — Web Development 35

Stage 2 — Updates And Maintenance 35

Stage 3 — Future Opportunities 38

III. CONCLUSION 40

Acknowledgements 41

IV. APPENDIX 42

FINAL WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT REPORT

PROJECT TEAM MEMBERS

FACULTY Dr. Amanda Ashley Dr. Jaap Vos Dr. Tom Wuerzer

STUDENTS Cody Butler Andrew Crisp Christopher Daly

Malori Eckersell Dean Gunderson Stephanie Leonard

Kyle McCormick Aaron Mondada Tod Morris

Jennifer Shelby

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Debbie Dane The Ox-bow Cafe

Robby Milo Cloverleaf Creamery

Mark Bolduc Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument Staff Tina Bolduc Hagerman National Fish Hatchery Staff Helen Edwards Snake River Grill

Tom McCauley Citizens of Bliss, Idaho

Citizens of Hagerman, Idaho

Citizens of Buhl, Idaho

Citizens of Gooding County

Citizens of Twin Falls County

I. APPROACH

Community and Regional Planning, Fall 2014 “Hagerman Valley: The Real Idaho”

I. APPROACH

In fall 2014, the Community and Regional Planning Department is partnering with Southern Idaho Tourism

to assist in developing, designing, and implementing a strategic tourism website, to assist the agency’s

continued efforts to promote and support the Hagerman Valley region. Members of the CRP project team,

per this proposal, will design and develop an interactive, tourism-focused website as part of a communication

strategy, following a recommendation from a Northwest Community Development Institute planning

process. This website will use storytelling and place-branding strategies to market the unique destination that

is the Hagerman Valley. Visitors to the website will interact with elements placed on a map of the region, and

will learn more about the diverse activities endemic to the region. The project team members from the

Community and Regional Planning department at Boise State University have engaged in numerous weeks of

discussion, analysis, and process design to define the scope and boundaries of this project. The following

presents a summary of internal team discussions, and provides a brief history of conversations, decisions, and

goals as defined between early September and mid-October.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report marks the culmination of an innovative partnership between Southern Idaho Tourism and the

Department of Community and Regional Planning at Boise State University. A team of students and faculty,

working collaboratively with members of the community, representatives of Southern Idaho Tourism and

other stakeholders, created launched this process in September 2014 in an effort to develop a strategic

approach to a tourism website for the Hagerman Valley region.

Encompassing the Idaho communities of Bliss, Buhl and Hagerman, and spanning Gooding and Twin Falls

Counties, the Hagerman Valley plays host to some of the state’s most pristine vistas. However, the

communities, and the people who contribute to them, define this region’s unique identity. Early on in the

process, the student team identified a key branding term which helped parse the human and natural resources

in the area: “Hagerman Valley: The Real Idaho”

The Hagerman Valley is an amenity rich area, with opportunities to attract visitors. Tourism has been

identified as a primary economic development tool, and as a means to take advantage of the area’s natural

amenities and vibrant communities.


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In the summer of 2014, representatives of the Northwest Community Development Institute visited the

Hagerman Valley in an attempt to develop strategic initiatives to foster new life and economic opportunity in

the area. Following on a recommendation from this process, a new planning effort was initiated, one that

would focus on developing a Hagerman Valley tourism website.

Ten graduate students from the Department of Community and Regional Planning partnered with Southern

Idaho Tourism to embrace the task of developing a website proposal that would be used as a tool to help

promote the Hagerman Valley as an exciting and unique tourism destination. Through a qualitative research

methods approach, which included the development of field notes, analysis of all current tourism materials,

and semi-structured interviews, the Hagerman Valley website development team identified and developed a

brand and marketing approach for the area. This approach focuses on highlighting this area as “The Real

Idaho” capturing the wealth of natural beauty in the area, as well as the welcoming and wholesome qualities

exhibited by the residents and business owners in the Hagerman Valley.

The Hagerman Valley provides access to a wide range of exciting tourism opportunities, including: fishing,

rafting, golfing, as well as easy and affordable hot springs access. However, the area currently lacks an

appropriate media outlet to effectively communicate the area’s attributes, and to entice perspective tourists.

The absence of this tool is apparent as the major barriers to tourism include: insufficient wayfinding for

would-be travelers, limited information regarding local attractions and numerous issues regarding how

tourists connect with established businesses.

As a remedy to these issues, the final website concept design provided in this document demonstrates a user

friendly approach, one which highlights the region’s wonderful tourist amenities, and their seasonal flexibility.

Eleven tourism amenities were selected for inclusion in the website concept, and each provides up-to-date

information regarding seasonal variability, ease of access, and locational wayfinding assistance. These efforts,

once fully developed into the live version of a new Hagerman Valley tourism website, will act as an invaluable

economic development tool for the both the businesses and communities that reside within the region, while

serving as an essential resource for visitors.

This report highlights the culmination of the Boise State team’s approach, and provides the tools and

processes to support the continued development and maintenance of the website and regional branding

strategy created for the Hagerman Valley. The Hagerman Valley is a fantastic destination for anyone looking

to embark on an authentic Real Idaho experience.


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METHODOLOGY

The approach to data-collection and observations for the project has been qualitative. The qualitative work

allowed the student team to implement many of the skills they had acquired from the CRP 511 – Qualitative

Methods course.

These processes included:

● Field Observations: composed of a set of unstructured interviews conducted during the students’

tour of the Hagerman Valley on September 6th.

● Preliminary Content Analysis: an assessment of personal observations made by students after their

field observation tour, which were then reorganized into the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities,

Threats analysis technique. These were then extrapolated into word clouds to search for key phrases

and words using the online Wordle app.

● Unobtrusive Data Collection: a review of existing tourism websites, tourism industry articles, digital

media articles, existing technical reports on Southern Idaho Tourism, Comprehensive Plans for

communities in the valley, and economic development reports prepared for the region.

● Conversations with locals: off-tour conversations with business owners and residents throughout the

Hagerman Valley.

● Structured Interviews: the use of a scripted interview protocol to secure the following pieces of

information from vendors and businesses in the Hagerman Valley: location, hours of operation,

seasonal variability (variability in hours, or amenities/experiences offered), and contact information

(phone number(s), website address, social media presence, etc.).

Figure 1 - The image above illustrates an example of a brainstorming exercise to determine project direction and scope.


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The qualitative interview protocol, essential in obtaining information for tourists about amenities and

experiences offered in the Hagerman Valley, was modified for the eventual use by volunteers, interns, or staff

as a part of future website maintenance. The modified protocol is included in this report.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

Phase I — Discovery Phase

The initial discovery phase for this project consisted of: meeting with client Debbie Dane, engaging in a field

trip to the Hagerman Valley, reflecting on the trip, and conducting a group SWOT analysis.

Meeting with Debbie Dane

In late August, Debbie Dane met with

students of the CRP 503 course to provide an

overview of the Hagerman Valley. She

provided information regarding the operations

and strategy of Southern Idaho Tourism to

market the Hagerman area which was used by

students throughout the semester to inform

the design of a future website. From the

beginning, wayfinding in the Hagerman Valley

was identified as an area needing improvement

to enhance the experience of visitors.

Additionally it became evident there were opportunities to better market the activities and experiences the

Hagerman Valley offers. This resonated with students as areas to address in the website. Debbie conveyed the

excitement within the Hagerman Valley regarding this project and the potential for economic development in

the area through the implementation of the proposed website.

Trip to Hagerman Valley

In order to gain understanding of the Hagerman Valley, students from the Department of Community and

Regional Planning (CRP) spent a Saturday in the Hagerman Valley. Students observed local attractions,

people, and physical characteristics of the area as well as learned about regional issues from the perspective of

Figure 2 – Initial meeting with Debbie Dane provided an introduction to the region students would be exploring over the next four months.


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area stakeholders. Students documented their various

experiences and reflections throughout the trip

through a series of field notes which were later

condensed. These field notes consisted of rich

descriptions of students’ personal sensory impressions

including sights, sounds, smells, and overall feelings

regarding each location within the Hagerman Valley.

Students also documented personal reactions to the

locations and interactions with members of the local

community. Overall, students documented how the

process of going to and experiencing the Hagerman

Valley would relate and apply to the creation of the

website. The field notes provided a comprehensive

account of the trip to the Hagerman Valley as the

students independently identified the area’s barriers to tourism based on their perceptions and experiences.

These field notes guided the process of creating a vision for a website that would be applicable to the

Hagerman Valley (For example field notes, and photos from Hagerman Valley see Dean Gunderson’s field

report in Appendix II).

SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) Analysis

Students conducted an analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, also known as a

SWOT analysis based on the September 6th field trip to the Hagerman Valley. The SWOT analysis provided

an opportunity for students to share their reactions to the area’s barriers to tourism as observed by students

or relayed by residents, as well as identify strengths and opportunities to be incorporated in the website

design. Throughout this discussion, the group was able to identify how the process of creating the website

could turn elements originally seen as weaknesses or threats into opportunities and, potentially, strengths.

Most notably, wayfinding was identified to be a guiding concept for the remainder of the visioning process.

Throughout the discovery and analysis of the strengths and opportunities of the Hagerman Valley, students

uncovered a set of characteristics unique to this region. Students perceived a tourism experience in the

Hagerman Valley to be more representative of an authentic Idaho experience than other destinations may be.

This authentic experience was viewed as an effective and original way to brand the area and entice tourism.

Students established “The Real Idaho,” as a tagline that characterizes this experience and unifies the region

along the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway from Bliss south to Buhl.

Figure 3 – During the September 6 field observation of the Hagerman Valley wayfinding was observed to be a major barrier to tourism in the region, as expressed in student field reports.


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Findings from Discovery Phase

The discovery phase rendered several findings to be included in the final website product. The trip to the

Hagerman Valley revealed to students the diverse recreation opportunities available there. Students concluded

that these should be highlighted within the design of the website. They identified a need to conduct focused

research on each of these aspects, and determined the best way to accomplish this was for each student to

focus solely on one activity or amenity.

Additionally, students identified that these recreation opportunities are unique by being available year round.

This was determined to be a strength that could easily be communicated within the design of the website.

Students found that although the Hagerman Valley offers many activities to participate in, easily locating

them presents a tremendous challenge. Therefore, wayfinding became a focal point of the website. The

presence of a strong wayfinding element in the website would not only provide assistance in finding the area’s

popular attractions but would also provide a way to display the additional opportunities discovered by the

students’ research of the area. Overall, students found that there was very little existing information on the

Hagerman Valley that might encourage a potential tourist to make the journey to experience the area,

reaffirming the need for a website that focused on the activities in the region and provided visitors with

information to help them maximize their stay.

Figure 4 - Hagerman Valley has a diverse range of recreation opportunities. The website intends to highlight these eleven activities, each of which was investigated by the student team.


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Phase 2 — Approach Phase

The approach phase consisted of meeting with a web design professional, in class and independent critiques

of existing tourism websites, and class discussions regarding an effective communication strategy to convey

the information gathered in the discovery phase.

Meeting with Boise State Web Coordinator Robby Milo

Initially, Robby Milo visited the CRP 503 class to discuss website design strategy and development. This

presentation addressed the use of Google Analytics to monitor a website’s usage and performance as well as

stressing that websites should be consistently monitored to evaluate potential improvements. He emphasized

bounce rates as a fundamental data component provided by Google Analytics. A bounce rate captures the

number of users who only visit one page of the site before leaving the website. This lack of interaction within

the website could be the result of a poor web layout, lack of intriguing content or a combination of several

factors. Mr. Milo advised a highly interactive design to mitigate high bounce rates. Additionally, Mr. Milo

emphasized that the content of a website needs to be linkable, conversational in tone, and sharable. Mr. Milo

noted that as website designers, the CRP 503 class needed to consider who the target audience of the website

would be. With this target audience in mind, the next steps were to develop a vision for the product and

produce a website design that could communicate that vision. Mr. Milo stated that the most important aspect

to keep in mind when creating a website, is that the work is not completed once the website goes live. A

website is an evolving product that needs to be regularly updated and improved.

Review of Existing Tourism Websites

Mr. Milo encouraged the students of CRP 503 class to explore and critique existing tourism websites to

determine what would deter us as users and what aspects we enjoyed and engaged in. This would give us a

sense of what we would like to include in or exclude from our design. The students independently reviewed

regional and global tourism websites then shared their findings with one another in the classroom. This

exercise allowed the class to have productive conversations around common elements and share ideas about

the direction the website should take.

Students had extensive conversations critiquing the existing tourist website created by the Hagerman Valley

Chamber of Commerce. Overall, students found this website to be lacking conversational element and

provided very few links to establishments and businesses in the area. It provided basic information of the

destinations within the Hagerman Valley, but did very little to engage potential visitors or residents in the


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unique qualities of the Hagerman Valley nor did it address the wayfinding challenges of the area. A new

website can effectively address the challenges of the area, and create an effective economic development tool

for the Hagerman Valley.

We have provided highlights of desired website elements identified throughout the process of investigating

existing webpages and additional conversations with Mr. Milo.

Visit South Idaho

Based on what we saw on the Visit Southern

Idaho website, we want to include a map feature

that shows the Hagerman Valley’s diverse

destinations. Our intention is to improve upon

the concept depicted in the image to the right,

making it more navigable, not unlike the “Find

Local” feature from the Idaho Preferred

website’s interactive map. The map will provide opportunities to include additional information discovered in

our extensive research of the area.

Greenland

We liked the idea of having a “choose your

adventure” by season, similar to what we found

on the Greenland tourism website. Our approach

does not include an “adventure level,” as the

Hagerman Valley will not offer the same level of

extreme sports as the country of Greenland.

Instead, we focused on year-round activities for

diverse groups of visitors. This focus came, in

part, from our desire not to limit the reach of the

website focusing on any particular demographic

group. We assume the users will generally be tech savvy and have experience using a “trip planner” type of

http://visitsouthidaho.com/adventuremap#artsandculture

http://www.greenland.com/en/


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feature. The Hagerman Valley has tremendous opportunities to link activities together and this feature will

enable the user to take advantage of the region’s array of activities available during each season.

Payette Scenic Byway

The Payette Scenic Byway webpage demonstrates the opportunities of Hagerman Valley’s Thousand Springs

Scenic Byway. The supporters of the Payette Scenic Byway

opted to convey the message of history, culture, and

“place” within their web portal. This approach may attract

visitors to the uniqueness of the Hagerman Valley in a way

that is reflective of local culture. Our websites depiction of

the Hagerman Valley as “The Real Idaho,” was influenced

by the way the Payette River Scenic Byway communicates

the area’s uniqueness.

Students identified the future website should be link heavy, allowing users to interact directly with

establishments in Hagerman Valley which have an existing website. This provides easy navigation and reduces

clutter of information that would deter users. The students wanted to be aware of advances in technology and

the increased use of social media as an avenue to explore tourist opportunities. The link heavy approach

provides users a quick and easy way to contact these establishment directly. This feature is also intended to

encourage businesses without an existing website to be more proactive in their marketing efforts by inciting

them to create their own websites.

The following table highlights the individual web elements the project team will employ within the Hagerman

Valley website. Each element is directly related to one or more of the examples from the research phase of

this process. The high use of graphics and interactivity reflects our understanding of current web design

trends, the needs of Hagerman Valley visitors, and the businesses and communities within the valley itself.

http://www.payetteriverscenicbyway.com/


Website

Elements

Elements for Hagerman Valley

Website

Reference

Graphics/layout Large picture for homepage that entices the

user. Visit Greenland

A picture that brands the area on the

homepage. Visit Greenland

Simple, graphic-oriented. Visit Greenland

"Things to do" section containing researched

activities.

Visit Greenland – “Things to

Do”

Short statement on homepage describing

brand name.

Visit Greenland

Navigability Filtering system based on season, activity,

level of adventure.

Visit Greenland – “Things to

Do”

Ability to navigate through the website, by

clicking on fun icons, to get the information

you need.

Idaho Preferred

Map Click-ability of icons that would bring them

up on a map.

Visit South Idaho

Idaho Preferred

Ability to click on points within the map that

give relevant information.

Visit South Idaho

Idaho Preferred

Icon pictures of activities. Idaho Preferred

Visit South Idaho

Links to relevant information. Idaho Preferred

Visit South Idaho

“By the way…” Information about the history and culture of

the area.

Payette River Scenic Byway

Table 1 - This table represents an approach to considering the activities to be included in the final Hagerman Valley tourism website.

Phase 3- Final Data Collection and Website Design

The final stage of the data collection process to create a website template was to have students to

independently contact business owners to research specific details regarding each activity.

Semi- Structure Interview Protocol

An interview protocol was drafted to ensure students reaching out to Hagerman businesses and

establishments were correctly identifying themselves, the process, the project, and the end goals of the


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website. This semi-structured interview protocol provided a script for students to use in conducting phone

interviews intended to find out basic information and insight from community members highly involved in

the activity of interest. Students determined seasonal variability, hours of operation, precise location and,

additional contact information in the initial portion of these interviews. This data was collected to help

populate the locational component of the map as well as describe brief information regarding the specific

businesses.

The second half of the interview protocol was less structured and designed to give the students freedom to

explore their topic and investigate how this type of recreation would be unique to “The Real Idaho”

experience. This section also provided an opportunity to discover additional barriers to tourism, and gain

insight from locals who are heavily invested in these activities in the Hagerman Valley. The information

collected in this exercise was used in the write-up summary of the activity, located on the respective pages.

(See Appendix III.A for each activity’s write-up as well as the interview protocol.)

Site Maps

Site maps were drafted to determine the functionality of the website, and to ensure content was easily

accessible and consistently organized. The creation of the site maps help students identify potential areas of

the website that would deter users from engaging fully in the websites content. Ultimately, the goal of the site

map was to test the design and flow of the website function. It communicates to the potential web developer

the way we envision users moving through the site and ultimately creating a trip using the trip planner, the

end goal of the website. (See implementation section for in-depth review of Site Maps).

Page Sketches

In order to determine the layout of each individual page, students drafted hand-drawn sketches of potential

designs. Hand drawn sketches were used to

visualize the design of the website and

ensure its design reflected the client’s needs

and the visions of the students; without

mimicking existing design templates. These

designs were discussed by the group and

adjusted to reflect the conversational and

interactive nature of the webpage design.

Students agreed that each page should be

highly visual, reflective of attributes of the

Hagerman Valley. Students also determined

that the seasonal variation should be seen in Figure 5 - Sketches were created to ensure collective buy in from group members before final templates were created.


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the background image for each season. Additionally, the features containing information regarding the

“About Us” and “Activities” in the Hagerman Valley were to function as a scroll-up feature on the home

page. Icons representing the locations of the activities were chosen to provide an easy to recognize feature

without cluttering the maps with extensive text. As represented in the site maps, each page of the website

needs to include options to fully interact with all aspects of the website. This function requires each activity to

be clearly displayed at the bottom of the webpage to encourage movement and exploration of all recreational

potentials in the area.

Drafting of Presentation

After an agreed-upon design of the web page sketches and themes and communication strategies were

completed, students created the digital mock-ups to be shown as templates for the presentation. The

presentation program Prezi was used to demonstrate the flow and interactions intended for the website.

Birding was chosen as the element to fully display the extent of the website’s activity section, and provided

the style of content that will be included in all sections (see Appendix VI). During the drafting of the

presentation, a separate group of students created the outline for the “Next Steps” section of this report. This

sections includes a maintenance plan for the continued development of the website and opportunities to

expand into different media outlets.

Presentation to the Client Debbie Dane

On December 2, the final

presentation of the methods,

website function, and next steps

was presented to Debbie Dane,

Robby Milo, Mark Bolduc, Tina

Bolduc and CRP faculty Amanda

Ashley, Thomas Wuerzer, and

Jaap Vos. The methods sections

demonstrated the process and

approach of the CRP 503 team and the six themes that were identified and applied in the creation of the

website. Additionally, the maintenance plan was presented, providing Southern Idaho Tourism with protocol

for maintenance and the future development and growth of the product.

Figure 6- In early December, students presented their vision to Hagerman Valley stakeholders


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Findings from the Semester

The methods shown above and the exercises conducted over the four month period from September-

December 2014 yielded six themes to inform the overall communication strategy demonstrated in the

following implementation section and included in the design of the website.

GUIDING PROJECT THEMES

1) Hagerman Valley has plenty of amenities to support tourism

2) Wayfinding is an issue

3) Hagerman Valley has great opportunities to group different activities along Scenic Byway

4) Hagerman Valley is The Real Idaho

5) Local Businesses need marketing/exposure

6) Little tourism information is currently available


COMMUNICATION STRATEGY

In order to increase web traffic, our communication strategy will use an approach targeting a broad audience.

We intend to forego focusing on a singular demographic group, such as families, couples, or individual

recreation seekers, as we do not possess the demographic data to support focus on any specific group.

Selecting only one group would be discriminatory and would limit the potential reach of the website. It is

likewise presumptuous for the project group to determine how individual demographic groups will perceive

available recreation and tourism amenities. Furthermore, we feel that the amenities in the Hagerman Valley

have the potential to draw a broad range of visitors—individuals who may not yet realize their interest in

whitewater rafting, birding, or hiking. At this point, we do not feel it would be a significant benefit to the

website user or the businesses in the Hagerman Valley to predetermine activities or user groups.

The target audience is any tourist from outside the Hagerman area. In order to properly communicate with

the selected audience, we are approaching the website with a unique strategy. We propose using seasons as a

primary user-selected category, from there website visitors will be brought to a summary of activities available

during the selected time of year. We feel that this approach will increase the value of the website for a range

of audiences, and provide the user with freedom to design their own adventure. We envision a

straightforward and simple communication approach, which relies on imagery and minimal text to

communicate the uniqueness of the region. In an effort to simplify the operation of the website, the seasonal

categories will lead to activity categories, such as motor-touring, which will then lead to specific activities,

potentially including events that may be of interest to the perspective visitors. This approach differs from

other tourism sites associated with the Hagerman Valley in that the information is intended for non-local

consumption. Each one of these categories will be depicted by pictures and graphics in order to create a

unified and consistent look throughout the website experience.

The intended focus is outdoor activity, highlighting the various opportunities the Hagerman Valley offers.

The manner in which we aim to relay this information is unique compared to other tourism sites for the

region. We feel that this unique approach will appeal to a broad range of potential visitors and contribute to

the Southern Idaho Tourism’s goal of increasing tourism in the Hagerman Valley.

II. IMPLEMENTATION

STRATEGY


II. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

DESIGN AESTHETIC AND APPROACH

As referenced in previous sections, the design of our Hagerman Valley tourism website was developed

through a multi-phase research and design approach. The three phases of this approach included: 1) the

discovery phase, 2) the website concept development approach, and 3) the data collection and design process.

Through these phases and important

evaluation throughout the process, our

website concept has taken shape as a highly

visual, link-heavy design that was informed

by key principles from the field of web

design, as relayed by Robby Milo. The six

themes identified previously serve as

important guiding principles and provide

justification for each component in our

design.

Specific elements, including the map

component utilized throughout this design

approach, were considered important to addressing one or more of the six themes our team identified, as

mentioned previously in this report. “The Real Idaho”, a phrase we developed as a guiding principle behind

our approach will recur throughout the aesthetic of the website, as high resolution photos of the area indicate

to users the unique aspects of the area’s identity in its scenic vistas and its uniqueness of “place.”

Website Concept Development

Guiding our design process was an early conceptualization of the functionality of a potential Hagerman

Valley tourism website. The site map demonstrates how users will interact with our content and move

thought the four “steps”, as they navigate through the website. The first step begins from our home page.

The introduction to the Hagerman Valley is contained within interactive “About Us” and “Things to Do”

links. The second step, allows users to refine their projected visit to the Hagerman Valley based on season,

followed by selection of their preferred activities for their trip, culminating in the “Trip Planner”. As we used

the site map to guide our thought process, we kept in mind users may not necessarily move through the site

in a linear fashion, but instead meander throughout the framework, ultimately moving through each function

of this Hagerman Valley website.

Figure 7 –Above is the site map used to communicate the navigation and function of our website approach. For a detailed look at the site map, see Appendix IV.


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To further clarify our thinking about how a website should function, our team consulted a knowledgeable

professional in the field of web design, Boise State University web coordinator Robby Milo. After presenting

Mr. Milo with our draft site map, and engaging in a general discussion of our potential website’s functionality,

our team refined the proposal to include “best practices” from the field of web design as relayed by Mr. Milo.

He stressed the importance of providing users with “calls to action” within a website. According to Mr. Milo,

a “call to action” represents an opportunity for a user to interact with the web page, be it through clicking a

link, filling out information or browsing through a list of items. Likewise, he indicated that websites should

feature an easy to use navigation system that allows users to move through the website no matter where their

visit originates. Not every user will land on the Hagerman Valley home page but may instead gain access

through the “fishing” or “lodging” pages, for example, and it is important that the user be able to navigate to

other pages from any location of the website.

Within our framework for a Hagerman Valley tourism website, we stressed the importance of making each

page dynamic and interactive. To incorporate Mr. Milo’s comments, the artistic skills of team member Dean

Gunderson were utilized in the design of mockups that illustrated. These mockups prominently illustrate an

interactive map element. We envision this portion of each page would be fulfilled by a Google Maps API

tool, or through similar web-based mapping software. On each version of the map, graphic icons representing

specific Hagerman Valley activities, such as, mountain biking, hiking, birding, and others, will be featured

within the map, providing users with a chance to “scroll” and “browse” the map, to find attractions and

activities within the boundaries of the Hagerman Valley area.

We suggest a home page dominated by a scenic background image that exemplifies the beauty of the

Hagerman Valley and reinforces its identity as “The Real Idaho.” At the top of this image options for the user

Figure 8 – A graphic-heavy approach helps to highlight the unique amenities of the Hagerman Valley.


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to select, will be overlaid. The selectable links will be: “About Us,” Things to Do,” and a list of the four

seasons. A home page option will be constantly selectable on the bottom left hand side of the screen, which

always links the user back to the main page. Selecting a season will take the user to the activities that are

available during that time of year. The “About Us” link will activate a text display that will appear on the

home page, providing a playful description of the Hagerman Valley. We envision the “About Us” text as

especially useful for visitors unfamiliar with the Hagerman Valley and what it has to offer. The “Things to

Do” selection gives the user an opportunity to explore all of the activities available in the area without

selecting a season. The activities would be represented on the home page as individual icons, which represent

the essence of that activity, for example, for mountain biking, the icon would show a person using a bicycle;

for birding, the icon might include a pair of binoculars, or an Eastern Bluebird for example. From this

selection, a user may further investigate the options associated with each activity in the Hagerman Valley.

As described above, a user may select the manner in which they wish to explore the Hagerman Valley,

whether through a seasonal lens or through interaction with the activities which they are most comfortable.

Each season’s entry page features a striking background image representing the selected season, offset by a

map populated with the various activities available during that time period. Once a user has decided the

activity in which they plan to participate, they select the related icon, which displays a link to an outside

webpage that provides additional information about the activity. There is also a link to add the activity to the

“Trip Planner” tool. Once the activity is selected the website will add it into an itinerary package, much like a

shopping cart that can be seen on major consumer websites like Amazon or eBay.

Figure 9 – Users interact with the Hagerman Valley website through selecting a season to visit, or by selecting a specific activity.


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The design of our website proposal is intended to take advantage of certain opportunities, while providing

suggestions to overcome challenges recognized in the Hagerman Valley. The map component of the website,

and the “Trip Planner” page, are both designed to address the relative lack of signage within the area. We

believe that the printable trip itinerary tool provides a way to overcome the relative lack of cell phone service

available throughout the Hagerman region, a significant barrier given today’s ever-connected society. With the

printable trip itinerary, a user can have an in-hand document guiding them through their vacation, with

important venue contact information as well as accurate geographic locations for their destination(s). As

identified by Southern Idaho Tourism, there is a potential to share the itinerary generated by the Trip Planner

tool through social media outlets, or via email.

The final mockups used to present our website concept provide a vision for the final Hagerman Valley

tourism website. Representations were produced of not only the home page, but also of each “season” page.

Pictured below is the mockup created to demonstrate the activity pages. Because of our limited scope and

time constraints of the semester, we leveraged relatively simplistic design tools, as reflected in our mockups.

We believe that this is a strong concept that will only improve in the hands of a skilled professional as

Southern Idaho Tourism implements our strategy.

The content shown above represent the conversational tone we wish to apply in communicating the

recreational opportunities in the Hagerman Valley. This content demonstrates the uniqueness of these

recreation opportunities in the Hagerman Valley, and uses using enticing language to encourage perspective

Figure 10 –Each specific activity page is written in a conversational tone, in an effort to enchant potential visitors with the opportunity of that specific activity—whether they have participated in it before, or are new to the opportunity. Information to populate the interactive element, at right, is displayed in this section, and in Appendix VII.


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tourists to participate in the specific activity. The majority of the information included in these sections was

retrieved through our semi-structured interviews with local businesses and establishments.

HAGERMAN VALLEY ACTIVITIES

Listed below is the proposed information to be included in the development of each Hagerman Valley

opportunity. Additionally, the challenges the students experienced in researching this activities areas of

concern are listed for each opportunity. These challenges can and should be addressed in the development

and evolution of this website. Finally, the business and opportunity directory provided in the appendix

(Appendix VII) of this document, provides the basic information to be applied to the maps elements.

Fishing and Fisheries

Fishing in Hagerman Valley offers excellent opportunities for everyone in the family. The Snake

River offers a multitude of fishing spots, and the relatively warm and dry conditions make fishing an

activity that can be enjoyed year round. The 880-acre Wildlife Management area offers plentiful

fishing: trout, bass, bluegill, and carp are commonly found in this area. If catching fish is not your

forte, you can always enjoy a fish hatchery with picnic space and public restrooms! The Hagerman

National Fish Hatchery has a raceway full of trout, small sturgeon, and tiger muskies open to the

public. While you are there, be sure to check out the raceway of three to four sturgeon measuring up

to five feet in length nestled in a small corner of the park behind the hatchery buildings.

Challenges

Much of the research on businesses that offered fishing licenses was incorrect or was unconfirmed

through the phone interviews. This is a problem both in making this website, but also in maintaining

it in the future. Most of the other information was easily found, and the information for the water

access points shouldn’t change very often. A major untapped opportunity in the area is fishing gear

rentals. Most places do not offer rentals, and for those driving through, advertising and providing

this service may just give them an incentive to stop and stay. Other opportunities would be to create

more of hands-on tour system around the fisheries during certain parts of the year. These tours could

generate more income and revenue to the area, providing tourists with an educational and

entertaining experience is an opportunity the Hagerman Valley should capitalize on.


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Hot Springs

The Hagerman Valley is located on a geothermal hot spot. Chambers of water are heated deep below

the ground and pool on the surface in hot pools. In Hagerman Valley, the water is funneled into hot

pools available for public use. Three local businesses offer opportunities for a leisurely day of soaking

in one of the abundant hot spring pools. Whether you carve out an entire day for fun, or choose to

relax and soak after a day exploring the natural beauty of the Valley, the hot springs are a must do in

the Hagerman Valley!

With such amenities as tube slides and kiddie pools, party rooms, private hot pools and therapeutic

massages, the hot spring resorts throughout Hagerman Valley offer opportunities for groups,

families, and couples. They also offer overnight camping for those simply looking for a place to stay,

and one has a large grassy area available for weddings, retreats, reunions, and corporate and

community events. With prices starting at $7 for an adult day pass, the local hot springs offer many

choices at a great value.

Challenges

Hot springs are not unique to the Hagerman Valley and there are many hot spring resorts throughout

Idaho, but the facilities in Hagerman Valley are available at a modest price. People visiting the area

will be able to incorporate a stop at the hot springs without having to sacrifice another activity. The

ability to do more activities without going over budget sets the Hagerman Valley apart from other

resort towns and valleys in the West seeking to attract similar users. These resorts include both the

hot pools and overnight accommodations. This will allow the hot springs to market to two different

users, those who want to soak in the pools and those who are looking for a place to stay overnight.

This gives the businesses a unique opportunity to attract different types of users and maintain a

steady flow of users at the resort.

Golf

With four golf courses located within 25 miles of the town of Hagerman, and many more

surrounding Twin Falls, rest assured there is no shortage of lush fairways within a quick drive form

the Hagerman Valley. Looking to experience a round along the Snake River? Look no further than

the Clear Lake County Club, situated just 11 miles south of the town of Hagerman. This riverside


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course is sure to captivate golfers of all skill levels and ages as the course offers a gorgeous layout set

within a breathtaking rolling landscape. But plan ahead, golfers looking to play a round during the

summer months will need to book a tee time 5 days beforehand. Golfers can also enjoy the course in

winter months as Clear Lake’s provides a great opportunity to experience early spring-like golfing

conditions and an escape from Idaho’s harsh winters. All the golf courses within the region offer

unique and challenging opportunities in this beautiful section of Southern Idaho!

Challenges

There is only one golf course actually located within the Hagerman Valley, as a result the map

component needs to show the other options available just outside the region. An expansion of the

section could include all sporting goods stores in the area that provide golf equipment. The

summer/fall page should include an additional feature highlighting the importance of booking an

early tee time at Clear Lakes (this time especially August and September were indicated as having the

highest chance of the course to be closed for private events.) There are great opportunities for

Southern Idaho Tourism to add additional marketing outside of the website highlighting the

opportunities for Clear Lakes and Vineyard Greens to be used as a venue for weddings, corporate

parties or other large events.

Mountain Biking

Take a trip off the beaten path and experience the natural beauty of the Real Idaho on a self-guided

Mountain Biking adventure. The Hagerman Valley offers a robust eight mile trail through the scenic

Hagerman Fossil Beds. Extend your adventure even further by recreating the 2014 Ride Idaho:

Hagerman to Twin Falls Route that offers unique overlook opportunities and showcases the

aesthetic beauty of the Thousand Springs waterfalls. Take a spin in the picturesque areas unique to

Southern Idaho!

Challenges

Mountain biking in the Hagerman Valley is currently underserved as a recreational opportunity. The

Valley has only one designated trail, located near the Hagerman Fossil Beds. There are no bike rental

locations in the Valley, and the two cycling shops in Twin Falls have very limited offerings. Biking in

the Hagerman Valley offers one of the best opportunities to expand recreational access, with

relatively limited investment, as all it would take to make this a Mountain biking destination is a


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location to reliably rent bikes and wayfinding efforts to show users where in the Thousand Springs

State Park it is appropriate to take a bike adventure through their managed lands.

Significant investment needs to be made to make this a viable Mountain Biking Destination.

Currently the only location that you would be able to rent bikes is Cycle Therapy in Twin Falls,

which might be too far for some individuals. Additionally, trails South of Twin Falls have been

nationally recognized by various mountain biking groups, which would draw people outside of the

Hagerman Valley to participate in biking in Southern Idaho.

Road Touring

The Hagerman Valley’s Thousand Springs Scenic Byway draws a direct connection to the early days

of the Motor Age. Neon lights, drive-up fast food, and the open road became common American

cultural touch points during mid-century, and the Idaho section of U.S. Highway 30 was no stranger

to this trend. Connecting Astoria, Oregon with Atlantic City, New Jersey, Highway 30 was once the

primary trucking and travel route for motoring Americans. In a bygone era, many vacationing

Idahoans inevitably wound their way through the Hagerman Valley, and found numerous

opportunities for leisure and relaxation—amenities that remain available and accessible to a wide

region of tourists today. The Thousand Springs Scenic Byway winds its way through the Valley’s

breathtaking scenery, and is easily accessible off the din of traffic along Interstate 84. Take a trip back

to simpler times, and while you’re in the area take a stroll through Hagerman, Bliss or Buhl!

Motorists can access the byway just off of Interstate 84 near Bliss, ID, following U.S. 30 southeast

through Twin Falls to Idaho 50, then north on Idaho 50 to I-84. The byway can also be accessed via

U.S. 93 from Twin Falls. This route offers views of beautiful environments and historic towns such

as Hagerman and Buhl on the way to Twin Falls. The only cost associated with enjoying the scenery

of the byway is the individual’s cost for transportation—this scenic corridor can be enjoyed from

comfort of a car, truck, or motorcycle. In a short drive, a visitor can enjoy rolling fields, agricultural

landscape, volcanic terrain and the winding Snake River. A variety of websites provide additional

information about this scenic byway.


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Challenges

While there is awe inspiring scenery along the 67.8 mile corridor, there are few indicators of

landmarks. To get the most out of a drive along the byway, it is important to have highlights of the

story of the valleys and hills you are passing through to make the trip a memorable and enjoyable

experience. Wayfinding would add an integral element to the byway, and would prove to create a

destination rather than a corridor

Boating

Water-based activities abound along the Snake River’s winding path through the Hagerman Valley

region. Twenty-five miles downstream from Twin Falls, Class III rapids greet whitewater veterans

and novices alike. Calmer than intense Class V sections of river in other parts of the state, Hagerman

whitewater opportunities are more accessible, and provide an exciting addition to any trip. Affording

picturesque views of beautiful scenery and wildlife, whitewater rafting offers an unparalleled

introduction to the Hagerman Valley region through its important primary waterway.

Guides and rentals are offered by regional whitewater services for multi- and single-day rafting trips.

But the Hagerman Valley’s river stretches also offer more informal paddling, paddle boarding and

kayaking opportunities. Costs range from less than a hundred dollars to several hundred dollars,

depending on group size, trip length, and accommodations offered. Idaho Guide Service represents

an active company offering float trips in the region.

Challenges

Idaho Guide Service’s headquarters are located in a residential neighborhood in Twin Falls. It is

important to consider that visitors may not realize this, and may drive to that location expecting to

find a ticket office. Information on the IGS website is limited, and difficult to find. Work with the

business to include important details about availability and locations may be necessary. Not included

in this section: other boating opportunities, including the 1000 Springs Tours offering dinner and

sight-seeing opportunities.


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Agricultural Tourism

With the public’s growing interest in agricultural tourism, the Hagerman Valley offers a wide range of

great opportunities for people who want to find out more about where our food comes from, and

how it gets to our grocers. Along with the farms and ranches listed, there are nearly a dozen

operations in the Hagerman Valley that participate in the Idaho Preferred effort.

Challenges

A number of previous agricultural tourism venues and events have dropped out of participation,

likely due to concerns regarding liability. The 2013 Idaho legislature passed a liability limitation

statute that release farm and ranch operations from such liability. With this release, the largest

remaining obstacle is the lack of physical wayfinding signage.

Camping and Hiking

Camping offers the perfect opportunity to extend one’s stay in the Hagerman Valley. The area offers

a variety of camping options: camping domes, tent sites, RV sites and cabins satisfy any outdoor

enthusiast’s preferences. A trip to the Hagerman Valley is incomplete without a stay immersed in the

natural amenities offered. Whether looking to unwind or looking for adventure, camping in the

Hagerman Valley offers up numerous options to recharge for tomorrow’s events!

The Hagerman Valley offers a variety of hiking options coupled with temperate weather year-round,

allowing adventurers to enjoy natural waterfalls, pristine wildlife and geological formations including

canyons and gorges anytime they please! The Hagerman Valley’s trails vary in difficulty and length,

providing a range of available journeys. Features such as the Devil’s Washbowl, Niagara Springs,

Crystal Springs Lake and expansive vistas make the Hagerman Valley the perfect destination for an

unforgettable trek. Come visit the Real Idaho and enjoy a real adventure!

Challenges

Public camping options are available along Highway 30; however specific campground and camp

sites may be difficult for tourists to locate depending on their preferences, budget, the amenities

required and availability of information. Most campsites are known by those that have been to the

area before, residents of the area or by word of mouth. Privately owned facilities are fairly easy to


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locate and find information regarding cost, hours, facilities and location. Most options include

amenities to accommodate RVs, tent campers and individuals preferring a cabin or other enclosed

space. The creation of a component catering specifically to camping options would be helpful to

those visiting the area; this would also draw attention to unconventional or less-congested options.

There are numerous trails available in the Hagerman Valley, many of which are known to people

based on previous trips or recommendations from friends, this could be a challenge in enticing new

visitors. Online information is available, but scattered and lacks detail for each trailhead/park. Maps

provided by the 1000 Springs State Park website can be confusing and do not clarify the actual

location of trails. Information regarding the Hagerman Wildlife Management Area is available,

however due to the large area of the park precise information regarding location is difficult to locate.

As expressed by previous hikers, trails can be difficult to locate and may not be as obvious or inviting

as they could be. A possible component of a hiking feature would be to allow previous users to

indicate their preferences in trails or positive/negative experiences they may have had in the past.

Word of mouth regarding trails and interesting hikes could be more useful than identifying each

location to perspective users.

Birding

The Hagerman Valley is a birder’s paradise! A unique climate coupled with hundreds of acres of

preserved land make the Hagerman Valley a desirable destination for birds and birders alike. Over

one-hundred different migratory bird species make the Hagerman Valley their home for at least a

part of the year. There are many accessible areas to view the plentiful variety of birds all year round.

While birding is great year round, the best time to bird is during the winter; the availability of

unfrozen water thanks to a temperate climate provides perfect conditions. The Hagerman Valley

prides itself on having the highest number of bird species in the state. The area has gained a

reputation for attracting unusual species such as the Tufted Duck and Whooper Swan. So, grab your

binoculars and make the trip to one of these top-rated birding spots.

While there are many different places to view birds, some species are more likely to make an

appearance during certain seasons. The list below shows the top locations for birding within the

Hagerman Valley, and the best time of year to bird. For a list of birds that you may encounter while

there, Idaho Power’s checklist for Birding in the Hagerman Valley provides a breadth of information.


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This pamphlet outlines the species present during each season, is user friendly, and can help visitors

track birds they view in the area.

Challenges

Birding is one of the major draws of the Hagerman area, however publicity on the attraction is

lacking. The Hagerman Valley should begin to promote the birding opportunities within outdoor

excursion companies and outdoor equipment businesses in Twin Falls and Boise. In addition, the

Prairie Falcon Audubon Society provides many educational opportunities about birds in the

Hagerman Valley along with occasional excursions with expert guides. A partnership between these

types of organizations and the website would be beneficial for tourists and the Hagerman Valley

alike. The opportunity for birding to become a draw for tourism-oriented activity is present, however

further action should be taken to highlight the full capabilities of the attraction.

Fossils

Renowned for the discovery of the “Hagerman Horse”, which proved the presence of horses in

North America during the Pliocene era, the Hagerman fossil beds at the Hagerman Fossil Beds

National Monument are rich with history. A visit to the Hagerman Valley is an opportunity to be

immersed in the narrative of a prehistoric era. Diverse species from the Pliocene epoch have been

discovered at the Hagerman Fossil Beds site, providing important insights about life here prior to the

Ice Age. Every year thousands more fossils are unearthed at this site, make the trip to discover

history in Southern Idaho!

Challenges

The fossil beds are located on the western bank of the Snake River between the Idaho Power boat

dock to the north and the Upper Salmon Falls Dam to the southwest. While there are opportunities

for visitors to gain insight about the archaeological findings and their significance, there is no public

access to the sensitive dig site. Fossils are not available for viewing on site. However, scenic

viewpoints near the fossil bed site provide visitors with perspective on the Valley’s formation and its

ability to sustain life. The National Parks Service visitor center provides information about the fossil

bed and the surrounding area, serving as a crucial hub of information. There is no cost to obtain

access to the visitor center or the viewing area overlooking fossil bed area. There is potential to


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attract visitors interested in history and archaeology with additional resources to engage them in the

discovery and interpretation of objects unearthed.

Many people come into the Hagerman Valley excited to walk the ground of prehistoric events,

imagining life for the people and animals of ages past. However, because of the fragility of the terrain

where the fossils are found, access to the dig site is restricted. While there are both actual fossils and

full-scale replicas available for viewing in the Visitor’s Center, there is a great opportunity to create a

much more interactive experience for visitors. The signs currently in place fail to provide a way for

visitors to engage in the larger story. With the online platform, there are a variety of possibilities to

engage people in the narrative of the area through mobile applications. Other platforms, for instance,

have the ability to provide visitors to a specific site a historic view of that site.

Food & Dining

While you are enjoying the natural beauty and the friendly atmosphere of the Real Idaho, stop in to

one of the many restaurants, Bars and Cafés that make the Hagerman Valley a great place to dine in,

or carry out. Dining in the Hagerman Valley offers visitors not just good food at an affordable price,

it offers experiences tailored around food. Join in the fun at the Riverboat café, or cool off with

some of Idaho’s best freshly made Ice Cream at the Cloverleaf Café. There is truly something for

everyone when it comes to dining in scenic Hagerman. Finding dining within your budget should be

no issue at all, as one can choose from a wide range of price points associated with the local

restaurants and cafes.

Challenges

Efforts to provide options for individuals with special diets are relatively lacking in the Hagerman

Valley. Additionally, some of the more unique dining experiences such as the River Boat catered

dinners are not easily accessible, or are subject to cancellation on very short notice. Options are not

well-advertised, and wayfinding to locate restaurants or dining options is non-existent in some areas.

The opportunities available to restaurants, cafes and diners within the Valley are numerous, this

website could provide an impetus to creating a base for marketing.


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MOBILE OPPORTUNITIES

Any website implementation strategy should include a consideration of mobile layouts, as American web

users increasingly consume content in mobile formats, including Android and Apple smartphones, and tablet

devices. Mr. Milo recommended consideration of “concurrent design”, as it is a current trend in website

implantation. This means simultaneously creating strategies for both desktop web formats and “mobile-

friendly” designs.

As indicated in the above image, a mobile format is easily scalable based on the process we have outlined.

What will need to be considered are the layout and structure of a mobile format. The extent to which a “Trip

Planner” and map-based functions will be included may be limited, as mobile web browsers do not

necessarily offer users a fine-grained approach to interacting with web elements. A mobile version of the

Hagerman Valley tourism website may serve more of an “informational” role, rather than acting as a truly

interactive portal.

Figure 11 – Mobile layouts should be considered concurrently in the web development process.

III. NEXT STEPS


III. NEXT STEPS

This section of the report highlights both the timeline for successful development, and offers suggestions on

how to best maintain the website in the years following.

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT TIMELINE

Figure 12 - Proposed website development timeline

STAGE 1 — WEB DEVELOPMENT

This first step in initiating this website maintenance plan is the development of the website. We suggest that

in order to maintain project momentum that the development of the website begins within the next couple of

months. This development process encapsulates contacting a web developer and delivering the ideas and

concepts presented in this report. In addition to our concept designs and website navigation maps, we suggest

that a committee of individuals from both Hagerman and Southern Idaho tourism review the web elements

and make any additions and changes they might have coming from a different perspective. We also suggest

that while the website is in development, the development of a mobile site interface is developed

simultaneously to allow for a more user friendly experience that is consistent whether at home or on the road.

Mobile interface development has become almost integrated into the development process in the past few

years, which should make this aspect of the web development affordable and easy to implement.

Once a developer has been hired and strategic web elements have been discussed, the web development

process was estimated to take roughly six to eight months. We would suggest that a goal date for the website

to go live should be selected towards the end of the summer 2015 season. Once the website goes live, we

suggest a regular monitoring of the Google Analytics data that shows key information such as bounce rates,

time spent on the website, and traffic demographics.

STAGE 2 — UPDATES AND MAINTENANCE

We believe that the key to successfully implementing this website as a tool for economic development and

tourism attraction is regular and in depth maintenance. From the web user’s perspective there is nothing

2 Months

•Beginning of website development

8 months

•Website finalized and published online

1 Year

•First maintenance protocol update

2-3 Years

•Phone app development

•Partnerships with local businesses


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worse than looking at information that is out of date and links that are no longer active. The following

maintenance protocol will help to ensure regular maintenance is easy to do and is accessible to anyone

regardless of website experience.

Step 1: Utilize Community and Volunteer Resources

We have recognized that there is a lot of excitement surrounding the Hagerman Valley and the creation of

this new tool for tourism promotion, and with that we recommend tapping into community resources to

maintain and manage the website. Volunteers would be utilized in the regular maintenance protocols,

conducting phone interviews and making sure that the website is up to date and that all the information is

current.

Maintenance

Task

Method Timeline Reason

Step 1 Utilize Volunteer

Resources

Find volunteer(s) or

employee to update

website information

2 months prior to tourism

season, 10 hours a week

Generate community

participation and buy-in

Step 2 Add additional web

elements

Utilize Southern Idaho

Tourism data and

community input

As needed Show the complete range

of recreation

opportunities in the

Hagerman Valley

Step 3 Conduct annual review

of Hagerman Valley

Businesses not currently

highlighted on the

website

Phone interview with

new businesses

(Interview Protocol,

Appendix III.B.)

Once a year, before major

tourism season

Expand area offerings

and ensure equitable

tourism benefits for all

businesses

Step 4 Conduct annual review

of Hagerman Valley

Businesses on current

website

Phone Interviews with

existing businesses

(Interview Protocol,

Appendix III.B.)

Once a year, before major

tourism season

Create up to date and

reliable information for

website users

Step 5 Update relevant website

visuals

Phone interviews, hire

professional

photographers

As needed Provide appealing and

current visuals of the

Hagerman Valley

Step 6 Continue to evaluate

website data

Review of Google

Analytics Data reports

Ongoing Create a more user-

friendly experience and

ensure overall success of

the website.

Table 2 - The above maintenance protocol matrix highlights the six steps that we have identified to help regularly maintain and update the website to provide the best possible experience for website users.


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An additional opportunity to maintain and create a more robust website would be through the creation of an

internship position. This intern would be someone who could conduct the review of Hagerman Valley

businesses and generate new content for the website while learning about the tourism industry. This position

would create another level of community participation and could help build partnerships with the College of

Southern Idaho, or the local high school.

While these volunteer resources are invaluable to the maintenance and updates to the website, we also believe

that a professional web designer and analyst should be on call to help overcome technical issues, and to help

understand the Google Analytics Data.

Step 2: Create additional web elements

This report highlights eleven web elements that showcase many of the tourism attractions for the Hagerman

Valley. These eleven elements are not representative of everything there is to do in this amenity rich area. We

suggest that through the collection of community input and the expertise of Southern Idaho tourism that

additional web elements are added to the website.

Our first recommendation for an additional element would be to include a hotels and lodging section. In

addition to the important information regarding lodging for area visitors, the hotels pay for a significant

portion of tourism promotion in the area. This is an important addition to the website, however it ultimately

fell outside of our activities based approach to our website design. Hotels and Lodging are also an important

addition to our online trip planner, and should be included accordingly.

Step 3: Conduct annual review of Hagerman Valley Businesses that are not currently included on

the webpage

In order to keep the website development proposal within the scope of feasibility, we only included

businesses and destinations that had made an obvious effort to engage in the tourism community. These

businesses had established websites and had made their information available to the larger community.

Because of this selection method, we know that the businesses we have represented in our elements are not

representative of all the businesses in the Hagerman Valley. As part of the yearly update to the website, we

recommend a continued outreach to local businesses that are not currently listed in our development

proposal. We see this is a great opportunity to encourage these businesses, or businesses that may have just

recently opened to engage with the generation of tourism revenue in the area. This also creates opportunities

to partner with local businesses to build an even greater level of community support and capacity within this

amenity rich area.


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Step 4: Conduct annual review of Hagerman Valley Businesses on current website

In order to keep the information on the website reliable, the interview protocol will need to be conducted

with businesses that are currently on the website. This will ensure the reliability of the website by checking on

any changes of hours, and seasonable variability. The interview protocol for existing businesses is also located

in the appendix (Appendix III.B.) and should be conducted by a volunteer annually before busy tourism

seasons.

Step 5: Update the visual elements of the webpage

Making sure that the webpage looks modern and not outdated is an important part of the maintenance

process. A user visiting the site should find themselves in a place with up to date images and a modern

aesthetic, in addition to just accurate information. We recommend to continue to expand the photo image

library available for Hagerman Valley activities, and to whenever possible include images of people

participating in activities so the website can be representative of the wealth of fun opportunities that exist

right off the scenic by-way. Making sure the website does not appear out of date aesthetically can be done by

a regular review of the web designer on call.

Step 6: Continue to review webpage usage data

We believe that a regular review of website usage data is essential to maintaining the integrity of the user

experience. It is impossible to know what will work and what will not work for webpage users, but through

evaluating the Google Analytics Data reports we can get an idea of what is going wrong. The data will show

bounce rates, time spent on various pages, how users are getting to the site and a number of other

informative data sets. This data should be incorporated into the regular updates to the website, whether that

is changing a dead link, or making a more in depth update to a page that does not seem to engage the users.

STAGE 3 — FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

Now that we have highlighted the first stages of website design and review, we wanted to talk about the

wealth of opportunities that surround this website. The following recommendations are just a small sampling

of the potential for future development, and should act as a springboard for community brainstorming.

Create an email list serve of all individuals who utilize our trip planner. This allows businesses to engage

potential visitors in advertising or promotion of events or special offers.

Develop an offline phone application. This would allow individuals to utilize the information from the

website even in locations that don’t have a reliable Internet connection. This app could also implement an on-

the-go trip planner element that could help guide visitors to a new destination even after they have expanded

their previously selected itinerary.


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Engage in social media outlets. Link the website with popular social media sites such as Facebook, Reddit,

Twitter, and Pinterest to generate additional site visits and ultimately generate interest in the Hagerman

Valley.

Offer special promotions to visitors who utilize the webpage. This might require additional partnerships with

local businesses an attractions, but coupons or promotions are often a great way to get people into the area

who might not otherwise be enticed to visit.


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III. CONCLUSION

This report represents a solid, grounded and robust approach to creating a web product that dutifully details

the Hagerman Valley’s amenities and opportunities to potential visitors, in a way that reflects the region’s

character and identity. Our work this fall has shed light on the abundant assets and opportunities in the

Hagerman Valley, and it has been our intention throughout this process to highlight and communicate the

region’s uniqueness.

“Hagerman Valley: The Real Idaho” represents not just an approach to place branding, nor to the

website’s overarching theme. “The Real Idaho” is also a reflection of the uniqueness of the Hagerman Valley,

its people and its landscapes. We feel that this phrase encapsulates the sensitive nature of planning for not

just places, but also people. It has been important for our team to consider an inclusive approach to planning

and marketing throughout this process.

In our Approach section, we outlined the basic approach of the Community and Regional Planning student

and faculty team, which was to develop, design and implement a strategic tourism website for Southern Idaho

Tourism. This project was identified as a key recommendation by the Northwest Community Development

Institute, and was informed by place-branding, marketing and planning strategies identified in related

literature. Beginning in September and culminating in a presentation and final report in December, the

student and faculty team achieved numerous milestones in the development of a tourism website serving the

Hagerman Valley. The result, “Hagerman Valley: The Real Idaho”, represents a multi-faceted, measurable

roadmap for development and implementation of this product. Students developed a methodology,

assembled key findings, identified important “web elements” for inclusion in a final website, developed a

design aesthetic and design approach, constructed an implementation and maintenance strategy and finally

created a maintenance protocol to be leveraged to keep a website working, and growing, as intended.

Within the Implementation Strategy, our team delivered a design concept for a Hagerman Valley tourism

website, drawing on key insights and “themes” gleaned from our methodology. A proposed site map, and

website mock-ups have been included for Southern Idaho Tourism to continue conversations with a web

developer as they move toward implementation. The mechanics of the proposed website, including the use of

a map-based approach, a “trip planner” component, and of a highly visual design, are all contained within a

detailed breakdown of our web design and user interaction strategy. Contained in the appendix of this report

is a complete set of initial design sketches, refined mock-ups, and a directory of business and opportunity

information, as developed by the student team.


41

In Next Steps, our team outlined the approach Southern Idaho Tourism should take in moving our

approach from concept into reality. Included are key stages in the development process, beginning with web

development, followed by update and maintenance considerations, and concluding with future opportunities

to expand, refine, and revise the website to improve on the ultimate product.

Our team would like to extend an offer of thanks to Debbie Dane, Southern Idaho Tourism, and all the other

individuals without whom this project would not have been possible. It is the opinion of this student team

that the Hagerman Valley is an important asset in Idaho, and that it represents a truly treasured place. Serving

the communities of Bliss, Hagerman, Buhl, as well as the other parts of the Hagerman Valley, has been both a

pleasure and a privilege.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This report represents the combined efforts of the entire Hagerman Valley “combo course” project team, but

also the hard work and commitment of individuals from the region itself. Our thanks to Debbie Dane,

Executive Director of Southern Idaho Tourism, Gooding County Commissioner Helen Edwards, and Mark

Bolduc of 1000 Springs Realty, as well as the staff and officials of the Snake River Grill, of the Hagerman

National Fish Hatchery, and the countless other individuals who helped contribute to the project team’s Field

Observation visit in September.

We extend our thanks to Southern Idaho Tourism for providing a number of high-quality images of the

Hagerman Valley, many of which are included in this report and other project deliverables. Thanks to Dr.

Thomas Wuerzer, for providing his photos of the class.

Flickr users PawPaw67 and Roadsidepictures have graciously provided their images with a Creative

Commons license. Their images are used in the cover page and section pages of this document.

Special thanks, as well, to our faculty and administrative staff within the Department of Community and

Regional Planning.


42

IV. APPENDIX

I. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSIONS

II. HAGERMAN VALLEY FIELD REPORT

III. INTERVIEW PROTOCOLS

A. ORIGINAL WEB DEVELOPMENT INTERVIEW PROTOCOL

B. WEBSITE MAINTENANCE INTERVIEW PROTOCOL

IV. SITE MAP

V. WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT SKETCHES

VI. WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT MOCKUPS

VII. BUSINESS AND OPPORTUNITY DIRECTORY

I. Summary of Discussions

The project team members from the Community and Regional Planning Department at Boise State

University have engaged in numerous weeks of discussion, analysis, and process design to define the scope

and boundaries of this project. The following presents a summary of internal team discussions, and provides

a brief history of conversations, decisions, and goals as defined between early September and December.

September 2

Students met with client representative Debbie Dane, executive director of Southern Idaho Tourism.

In this meeting, Ms. Dane presented background information regarding tourism demographics, local

assets, and existing marketing efforts to promote the Hagerman Valley as a tourism destination.

September 3

In preparation for the trip to the Hagerman Valley, the qualitative methods class, CRP 511, discussed

potential areas of exploration and objectives of the field observation, as well as techniques and

strategies for collecting and documenting data.

September 9 – September 10

Following the trip to the Hagerman Valley, the group debriefed and shared insights and experiences.

Students and faculty of CRP 503, Plan Making and Implementation, conducted a SWOT analysis

identifying the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats observed. The group began to

discuss the areas to be addressed in the website. Comments made by Ms. Dane, input of several

community members, and observations of the students indicated that way finding was determined to

be an important element in our final product. However, given our time constraints this finding will

not result in a full way finding report—rather it will be an underlying theme of the website.

September 16

Robby Milo, a web coordinator for Boise State University, agreed to work with the students and

faculty of the Community and Regional Planning Department on the website deliverable. He visited

the classroom to provide an overview of website design and metrics to give students and faculty an

understanding of what was possible, given time constraints. He showed the class how to monitor a

website and evaluate its activity. In addition, he discussed concepts of marketing and branding. To

extend the understanding of targeted website material, the class participated in a group activity that

aided in the identification potential user groups for the website.

1

September 23

Students convened to identify elements to be included in the website. A preliminary list of nine

“elements” or recreational activities was identified. Each element was assigned to an individual

student to research existing information and summarize their findings. Additional information

needed to proceed was identified as well as the source for obtaining it. Communication was

transmitted, vocally and electronically, to Dr. Wuerzer regarding needed items so that the appropriate

parties could be contacted.

September 30

The class conducted research, including a review of relevant literature regarding place-branding and

rural planning. Dr. Wuerzer outlined the elements required for the Website Development Proposal

that has evolved into this report.

October 6 – October 10

Students turned in the Website Development Proposal draft. Students received preliminary oral

feedback from Professor Wuerzer, and discussed strategic direction of the project. Students then

received detailed feedback on the draft report. Andrew Crisp and Jennifer Shelby, acting as

representatives of the student project team, met with Dr. Wuerzer for clarification of the

expectations of the report and the intent of feedback given.

October 11

Students gathered to discuss the report and strategize its completion. Andrew Crisp and Jennifer

Shelby relayed the directives given by Dr. Wuerzer for the completion of this document to the rest of

the group. Each student in attendance was assigned a section to focus on. Their responsibility would

be to complete revisions and additions in time for the editor to review the document as a whole.

Partners were designated to provide additional proofreading and encouragement. It was decided that

Andrew Crisp would be the primary editor and Jennifer Shelby would be the final editor.

October 13

The revised document was submitted to Dr. Wuerzer for further review.

October 17

Revised document was forwarded to Debbie Dane for additional feedback.

2

October 21

Feedback from Debbie Dane was forwarded to the students. Discussions regarding the scope of

structured or semi-structured interviews, were held. There was a general consensus that existing

venues and business owners in the Hagerman Valley would be interviewed.

October 22

The project scope and set of deliverables were revised. Based on both the quality and value of the

work to-date, Robby Milo indicated the construction of this website would require close to eight

months to complete, which made its completion outside the available timeframe of the project. The

project’s principle deliverables were altered to include both a final presentation (on December 2) and

the submittal of a final report (on December 11). These items will explain what the website

parameters should be and provide the justification for those decisions.

October 22 – November 27

With the revision of the project scope a more concentrated effort was made to create a website

navigation map, using the on-line flow-chart application LucidChart. The creation of a live website

will now be performed by a website consultant to be hired by Southern Idaho Tourism. The final

report and a copy of the final presentation are intended to guide the website construction.

October 28

The interview protocol drafts were presented and discussed during the regular CRP 503 class period.

The value of preserving some version of this protocol, as a core tool for on-going website

maintenance (for utilization by volunteers) was confirmed. The protocol has two parts: first, a

structured set of questions that will secure specific information from vendors and businesses to be

included in the eventual website, such as location/address, hours of operation, seasonal variability

contact information; second, a semi-structured set of questions that will guide the interviewer as they

draw out more detailed and esoteric information from the interviewee about their business or

location.


Students held a set of workshops to discuss the website navigation map’s progress and to begin

developing ideas about the website’s look and feel. Discussions focused on how information would

be presented and how it would be exported by a website user. Pencil sketches were created within a

16:9 ratio letterbox format to depict potential “screenshots” of various pages.

3


Finalized pencil sketches were animated into PowerPoint slides. This helped reveal navigational and

interface issues that could not be observed through the more static navigation mapping tool.

November 4

Site navigational map was revisited and shown in an animated presentation, which was prepared and

presented in Prezi. Discussion was held regarding the best possible way to present information

regarding this process and whether there should be a large format “poster” printed or a set of

flyer/hand-outs.

November 11

Discussions of next steps were held that resulted in tasks being divided into teams led by: Tod Morris

(development strategy and process), Andrew Crisp (implementation and design), Aaron Mondada

(maintenance and strategic development), Jennifer Shelby (editing of final report).

November 12 – 17

Communications regarding rough-draft components of the final presentation were held between

team leaders and Dr. Wuerzer.

November 18

A draft of the final presentation was presented to Dr. Wuerzer and the students. An open discussion

was held regarding ways to improve the presentation.

November 19 – December 1

Final edits to the final presentation were performed and the presentation was rehearsed. A hand-out

was prepared that included the final navigation map of the website and a mocked-up screenshot of

the proposed home page.

December 2

Final presentation was given by the students to Debbie Dane and Mark Bolduc, commissioner-elect

for Twin Falls County and a Hagerman business owner, and Tina Bolduc. Feedback was provided

from both the client group (Dane, Bolduc and Bolduc) as well as faculty in attendance. All students

attended, as well as Drs. Wuerzer, Vos, and Ashley. One important comment was provided by

Debbie Dane regarding the tourism elements. Since hotel and guest lodging venues provide a portion

of Southern Idaho Tourism’s budget, an additional element for lodging must be included in the final

website.

4

December 3 – 11

Specific tasks were assigned for crafting portions of the final report, with an established deadline for

drafts of December 5, to ensure adequate time to edit and revise the full draft.

December 5

Debbie Dane’s written comments regarding the final presentation were transmitted to the students.

December 11

The final report submitted to Dr. Wuerzer.

5

II. Hagerman Valley Field Report

The following document represents general impressions of certain areas within the Hagerman Valley

gathered over a two day period from September 6-7, 2014. As a general rule, this report (and the

supportive field notes) are not considered as publishable, therefor IRB human research protocols were not

observed – that is, individuals are listed by name when relevant.

In addition to the ten images included in this report, an additional 127 documentary photographs were

taken. All photographs can be found at the following internet location:

https://www.dropbox.com/home/dropbox_503Fall2014/combo-

course%20project/research/HV%20Photos%20-%20Dean's%202014-09-06

To gain viewing permission to this folder please contact Dean Gunderson at [email protected] .

First person observations in this report refer to Mr. Gunderson, his views are not representative of either

the BSU Department of Community & Regional Planning, Southern Idaho Tourism, or any listed public

official.

Scanned copies of the field notes upon which this document was based can also be viewed by contacting

the above-listed individual. Each specific area of import is listed under its own title; with a list of people

met, the gist of the conversation(s) held, information that stood out, and the general impression and

analysis of the area. Though each area is listed in the chronographic order in which it was initially toured,

since there were several areas that were visited multiple times over a two day period if the observations

led to additional insight(s) this latter visit will be noted as such.

6

http://www.dropbox.com/home/dropbox_503Fall2014/combo-

mailto:[email protected]

Figure 1. Concrete Dinosaur outside the Ox-bow Cafe

General Impressions and Observations:

Our tour of the Hagerman Valley area began in the town of Bliss, located at the intersection of Hwy 30

and Interstate 84. Several of us had breakfast at the Ox-bow Café, the sole dining establishment in the

small community. The friendly waitress indicated that the nearby convenience store (Ziggy’s) also sold

food, but that it might not be considered a true restaurant. In addition to the banquet and uniquely

configured counter seating area, the café also had a separate dining room for larger groups. The western

wall of this dining area was decorated with the firebrands of numerous local ranches (see images).

The town appeared to be rather forlorn, with the majority of buildings along the main street (Hwy 30

itself) belonging to the Mid-Century Modern architectural period (about the same time the Interstate was

built north of the town’s rail line) – the only apparent exception being the new firehouse. The setbacks of

the buildings along the southern side of Hwy 30 (the café included) was fairly exceptional, perhaps to

accommodate large semi-tractor trailer rigs (since it appears that trucks often stop in the town, and may

have been doing so since before the Interstate was constructed).

After breakfast we met with the remainder of our touring entourage; which included our client for this

project (Debbie Dane of Southern Idaho Tourism), a current Gooding County Commissioner (Helen

Edwards), and a Hagerman businessman (Mark Bolduc, who won his Republican primary election for a

2-year seat on the Gooding County Board of Commissioners and is the presumptive winner of the

7

November 4th

election). In addition to the graduate students and above-listed individuals three

departmental faculty also attended; Dr. Jaap Vos, Dr. Amanda Ashley, and Dr. Thomas Wuerzer.

We toured the adjacent road side stop which had an historical marker with explanatory signage (see

images).

I spoke at length with Helen and Mark about their impressions of the wind power towers – which

dominated the western horizon, above the opposite rim of the Snake River canyon. They both remarked

that after the first couple of fires near the towers, and the Bliss Fire Department’s forced response (forced,

since the wind towers were out of the fire district), a vote was held and the district’s boundaries were

expanded to include the private properties on which the towers were located. They both sympathized with

local residents who found the towers unattractive, and were bothered by the nighttime air traffic warning

beacons (red strobes mounted on every third tower), but they both expressed a general acceptance of the

towers and their daytime presence. Helen noted that the recent heavy rains had washed out a semi-

improved mountain bike pathway along the canyon, and was unsure whether the path would be restored.

Mark Bolduc went to length explaining the great potential of Bliss (presumably for economic

redevelopment), based on the town’s unique location at the crossroads of I-84, Hwy 30 (the Thousand

Springs Scenic Byway), and the Union Pacific rail line (and the fact that a freight terminal along the rail

line still exists).

It should be noted that Mark Bolduc not only runs a Hagerman-based realty office, but is the

owner/operator of the Hagerman Inn – in addition to his likely service as a county commissioner. Helen

Edwards has served two terms as a county commissioner, after serving as the county’s clerk. Both Helen

and Mark noted the need for residents in the rural area to wear multiple hats.

Just before we left Bliss, I ran into Greg Wood (the new minister for the nondenominational Bliss

Community Church). Greg told us about the framed sepia-tint photographs of old Bliss that we hung on

the wall in the back corridor of Ziggy’s. On Sunday, when we were leaving the valley back to Boise we

stopped at Ziggy’s to record some of these photographs (see images).

8

Figure 2. Thousand Springs Scenic Byway, at rest stop just north of Bliss, ID as the road wends down to

the valley floor.


In my 25 years living in the Boise area and having traveled innumerable times to eastern Idaho along I-

84, this was the first time I had traveled along the Scenic Byway. Having looked at a map of the region

before this trip I had presumed the highway would have been constructed with overly wide travel lanes

and generous shoulders (typical of contemporary highway construction). I thought this boded well for

potential bicycle touring opportunities, yet I was surprised at the relatively narrow travel lands and very

narrow shoulder. I suspect that riding a bicycle along this stretch of road would be somewhat nerve

racking.

It was obvious that the roadway also presents a hazard to wildlife, given the numerous road-kill remains

found at the road side rest stop (see images).

I was impressed at the vista that opened up as we descended into the Hagerman Valley, unlike the

impression given as we exited Bliss (the purported gateway to the valley) this trip down the Bliss grade

felt more like an arrival into a new place – one defined by a unique geography of rock and water.

9

Figure 3. View from parking area below the dam, adjacent to the free boat access ramp


Given that this stop located a ways off the Scenic Byway and was a public parking area (and the location

of a free boat launch into the Snake River) I was surprised at the paucity of signage directing the public to

its location – this was a disconcerting experience repeated often throughout the tour. By the end of the

second day of my time in the valley I began to attribute this lack of wayfinding signage to the local

residents’ belief that since they know where everything is why would they need to erect signs (though this

would have to be borne out through more investigation). Regardless, if the region wishes to increase their

profile as a tourism destination it is my belief that a more coordinated and composed set of directional

signs needs to be erected along the Scenic Byway.

As we were traveling down the side-road to the dam’s public parking area I was impressed by the quality

of the small farms and residences located along the way. In particular the Billingsley Bay Farm struck me

as particularly European in its manicured lawn, hedgerow and planted creek side.

The small picnic area we drove by on our way back to the Scenic Byway appeared grossly underused,

again perhaps to the lack of wayfinding signage.

10

Figure 4. A view down State Street in downtown Hagerman, ID (Hwy 30, the Thousand Springs Scenic

Byway)


After stopping off and touring a large scale bronze equestrian sculpture assemblage (with numerous

bronze sheep, a life-sized replica of a renown local sheep rancher, and a replica of a Basque sheep herding

camp trailer), located along the northern entrance into the town of Hagerman (see images) we entered the

town of Hagerman.

While the rest of the entourage toured the Hagerman Fossil Bed Museum, I took a separate walking route

through the town talking to locals and taking pictures of the local park, American Legion Hall, and Senior

Center.

The first person I spoke with was Don Reynolds, a semi-retired freight truck driver who had relocated to

Hagerman over 20 years before from the San Diego area. Don was manning a yard sale table in front of

the Senior Center, helping raise funds to repair the floor in the center. Don still drives seasonal freight for

a grain operator located out of Buhl. He expressed great concern for local farmers who had suffered with

the recent heavy rains – noting that the price of beer barley; which had been selling for $26/bushel, had

dropped to below $5/bushel since the rains had reduced the quality of the grain to little more than animal

feed. And, that all the hay that hadn’t been cut early was moldering in the fields. Don suggested I run

inside and talk to Rose Irwin, who put together the yard sale.

11

When I entered the Senior Center I spoke with Bobby, a wonderful woman who was operating the cash

table for the inside portion of the yard sale. She was quite fond of the center, but noted the real need to

raise money to fix the floor (I did notice a large crack running diagonal along the center’s floor). Bobby

told me that Rose was resting at home since she wasn’t feeling well – but before I could object, she called

Rose on her phone and handed it to me to talk to Mrs. Irwin. Rose was very proud of the center too, and

we talked for a while about the crack in the floor and the $18,000 it would take to install a new floating

floor above the cracked concrete floor. Later, I spoke with Mark Bolduc about the Senior Center and he

expressed concern that such a new building would have such a structural problem, since no other building

in the area had such a subsidence problem.

Figure 5. Joe Hernandez, an 18-year resident of Hagerman.

Walking back towards the center of town I ran into Jorge who introduced me to his father-in-law Joe

Hernandez. Joe and his wife of 45 years, had moved to Hagerman 18 years ago and they love how quiet

and peaceful the town is. Jorge and his wife were visiting from Twin Falls before moving to Salt Lake

City, where Jorge had a job lined up as a butcher.

After thanking Joe for his hospitality I wandered back to State Street and met Janelle Mode, the owner of

Country Elegance – a gift shop specializing in Country Chic furniture and curios (see images). Janelle,

perhaps more attuned to the interests and needs of the tourism industry, spoke at length about the current

efforts to bring public events into town. She obviously loves her town and its many attractions and

attributes. She talked about the two-year long remodeling effort the owners of the old grocery store were

12

undertaking – and their plans to push the State Street façade back from the sidewalk to create an al fresco

dining patio (though I sensed she thought he proposed vegetarian menu might not appeal to the typical

tourist). Janelle’s daughter attends the local high school and participates in the school’s

aquaponics/horticulture program; which has two large hothouse green houses for year-round plant

production. The program provides fresh vegetables to the local food bank, a point of pride for both Janelle

and her daughter. In fact, Janelle has worked with the local food bank (Helping Hearts & Hands) to secure

a grant from Idaho’s Bounty (a local food co-op) to convert the lot behind her store into a free community

garden that will be managed by the students in the horticulture program.

Figure 6. Image of local high school’s football field (with night lighting), with the two large hot house

green houses to the image’s left.

Later on Saturday, I had an interesting conversation with Les MacFee the new owner of Wilson’s Club –

a historic bar located in downtown Hagerman. Les and his partner Phyllis Rowland purchased the bar on

December 31, 2013 – just in time to throw a large New Year’s celebration. Les is retired from the

aerospace industry, having worked in Utah at Morten Thiokol’s solid rocket propellant plant and in

Florida refurbishing the former Apollo Launch Complex 39 to support the Space Shuttle program.

Les was eager to talk to the “folks from BSU” to find funding opportunities to rehabilitate the exterior of

the bar (to return it to its historic condition with clapboard siding and balconies), and to insulate and

finish out the sixteen rooms located on the second floor of the bar.

13

Figure 7. View of the fish pools at the Hagerman National Fish Hatchery


Our entourage stopped at the Hagerman National Fish Hatchery to eat lunch, where we had the

opportunity to speak with Brian Clifford (the hatchery’s motor vehicle operator). Brian’s familiarity with

the more mundane aspects of the hatchery proved to be a welcomed opportunity to ask more technical

questions about the facility and its operation. Unfortunately, many of the responses Brian offered raised

questions about water rights, interagency cooperation, and federal funding; answers to which he felt

uncomfortable providing.

I know from previous research that the hatchery operates as a federal court mandated facility to provide

fish to repopulate the Snake River; which had seen fish population declines due to hydroelectric dam

operations on the river. Brian indicated that though the facility is operated by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife

Service, the entire operation is funded by the Bonneville Power Administration.

Brian indicated that though the fishery is operating with approximately 12 cubic feet per second (cfs) flow

from Riley Creek, it was entitled to a full 90 cfs – and that it was only pulling 58 cfs. He expressed a

concern about an upstream senior water rights holder’s Water Call (Rangen’s, Inc. in Buhl), though he

declined to offer any official comment on the matter.

14

Figure 8. A view of the geodesic camping domes at Miracle Hot Springs, located off the Scenic Byway on

the way from Hagerman to Buhl.


One our way south along the Scenic Byway heading towards Buhl we stopped at a couple of locations.

The first was at a wildlife viewing area located along a pathway off a tourist rest stop off the byway.

Although we were rushed and could not stop to walk around, the wildlife viewing platform (made from

Coreten Steel, with wildlife silhouettes cut through the large 8’ x 10 curved panel) was impressive – but,

yet again, there was no discernable wayfinding signage that would indicate to the traveling public that the

platform was there. The second was at a well-appointed hot springs with new facilities, Miracle Hot

Springs. The resort provided rooms to rent (including geodesic domes), massages, two wonderful pools

filled with warm water (one of which had built-in chess boards for leisure seekers), and a separate pool

with a real live alligator (!). I had called ahead of our tour to check on the domes’ availability for an

overnight stay, only to find that they were all book through November 5th – this is a very popular place.

As we headed back south to Buhl we emerged onto a lush upper bench agrarian plateau, and I noticed a

better general upkeep of the Byway (along with numerous roadway adoption signs – thank you Buhl

Mennonite Youth Program).

15

Figure 9. United States Post Office in Buhl, Idaho


Our tour of the Hagerman Valley was capped with a visit to Buhl, Idaho. I must say that I was impressed

by the wonderful scale of the streets in Buhl, as well as the respectable stone and brick architecture found

throughout the downtown and nearby residential district.

We were given what amounted to an economic development pitch by Tom McCauley (Buhl’s mayor).

He’s obviously excited about his town’s prospects – with its new waste water treatment plant and potable

water treatment facility (bonds for which were approved by a 71% majority of voters).

Michelle Olsen (the Buhl Chamber of Commerce Administrator), and her toddler son, spoke about the

town’s popular 4th

of July Sage Brush Days event and its Trick or Treat on Main Street event for children

in the community. The town also hosts a health fair to spread the word about health care access options

for community members. Michelle then introduced us to Holly Langdon, one of the owners of L.L.

Langdon’s Tool and Bolt Supply – a one-stop-shop for fabricating, machining, welding, and custom

hardware for the valley (which is also a TrueValue hardware store). I was greatly impressed by the

fabrication facility’s capacity.

We also spoke with Donna Stoltzfus who, along with her husband Bill, own and operate Cloverleaf

Creamery – a 70-head pasture-fed dairy operation and downtown ice cream shop. Best ice cream ever!

16

Figure 10. A view above the south rim of the Hagerman Valley looking down on the farmland.


As we traveled out of Buhl, back down into the valley, we traveled along River Road. I was hoping that

the roadway would be wide enough to accommodate bicycle touring, but like the Scenic Byway it

appeared too narrow to afford both vehicle and bike access.

I thought to myself that the gently-chicaned road leading north of Buhl down back to the Snake River

(Clear Lakes Road) would provide an excellent long-board ride. As we turn west onto River Road it was

with some concern that I spotted the new, large homes built along the Snake River off of River Road –

since they seemed to me to be out-of-character with the surrounding area, and (along with new adjacent

golf course) a sign of exurban migration.

17

III. A. ORIGINAL WEB DEVELOPMENT INTERVIEW

PURPOSE

This guide is intended for students to use as they contact tourism related businesses in the Hagerman Valley or surrounding area. The primary goal of these interviews is to obtain information regarding: the businesses hours of operation, seasonal availability, location and contact information. However, students will also use this opportunity to investigate their assigned tourism topic. This semi structured interview will allow students flexibility to explore their topic and gain insight from locals.

INTERVIEW

Hello, my name is ____________, and I am calling on behalf of Boise State University and Southern Idaho Tourism. I am a student in the Boise State Masters of Community and Regional Planning program, and my classmates and I are conducting research on the tourism opportunities available in the Hagerman Valley. This location has been identified as a valuable resource to collect information regarding______ (your selected topic). ------Am I speaking with the owner or manager of (business name)? [if yes then continue/ if no ask if you may speak with, and repeat above speech/ if unavailable ask for a better time to contact or contact information] We have identified 11 tourism aspects (list aspects) of the Hagerman Valley and are gathering information from local (establishments/businesses) to help best inform tourist visiting the area. The information collected is intended to be applied to a tourism website for the Hagerman Valley that will be incorporated as a part of Southern Idaho Tourism’s marketing efforts. We would like to include your (business/establishment) in this website and provide its hours of operation, seasonal availability, location and contact information. Additionally I would like to ask you a few questions regarding your experience and observations concerning (your selected topic) related tourism in the Hagerman Valley. ------What are you regular hours of operation? ------Does your (establishment, business) operate year round? [if yes, ask if there is a time of year that is particularly busy for them, and why do they believe this is so/ if no, ask which months they are closed, and why] ------An aspect of the website will include the location of your business on a map. What is the (establishment, business) address? ------Do you have an existing website that we would be able to refer interested website users to? [If yes or no, continue] ------ How about a telephone contact number? ------ What are some additional aspects of your (establishment, business)that you would like see included in a tourism website? Thank you for that basic information regard your (establishment, business). Now I would like to ask some additional question regarding ______ (your selected topic).

18

PART II

This section is intended for students to address specifics regarding their topic. Because of the diversity of topics, questions in this section may vary and students can be flexible in the questions they ask. However, students should strive to gather information regarding the seasonal variability of their topic, specifically the accessibility of locations and (establishments, businesses). Students may also use this opportunity to identify related resources for additional information. Listed below are potential questions to begin this conversation. However, students must prepare their own questions that will address the holes found in their previous research.

SEASONAL EXAMPLES

------ Are their opportunities for _____________ (specific topic) year round in the Hagerman Valley? ------ Where are the best locations to _____________ (specific topic) in the Hagerman Valley? Is their season variability with these location? ------ Do you see different types of tourists at different times of the year? GENERAL EXAMPLES

------ What is it about _____________ (specific topic) in the Hagerman Valley that draws people there? ------ When tourist come into your (establishment, businesses) what are the most common questions you are asked? ------ What do you feel is the biggest challenge for_______ (specific topic) tourists attempting to recreate in the area? ------ Where would a tourist get equipment for _______ (specific topic) in the area?

Thank you for taking time out of your day to provide this information. If you have any additional question please feel free to contact our Boise State Professor Thomas Wuerzer ([email protected]). [ if they ask specifics regarding the website launch date, inform them that we are simply in charge of the data collection, and Southern Idaho Tourism will be responsible for developing the website.]

19

mailto:[email protected]

III.B.WEBSITE MAINTENANCE INTERVIEW PROTOCOL

PURPOSE

The website will require upkeep and maintenance if it is to maintain relevant and useful for bringing

tourists to the Hagerman Valley.

These two interview protocols will enable any employee or volunteer to gather the needed

information for updating the website in one phone call. The information needed will be hours of

operation, rates, contact information and location, and any seasonal changes in hours.

The first protocol is a slight variation of the interview used by the students at Boise State University.

The interviews done by the Boise State students included questions for developing the theme and

design of the website, but these are unnecessary for maintenance. For that reason, the interview has

been slightly varied to suit current needs. The first protocol should be used when a new business is

to be added to the website. The second interview protocol is to be used when contacting businesses

already on the website.

We recommend you verify contact information [number] times a year to ensure the website is

current and relevant year round.

NEW BUSINESS INTERVIEW:

Hello, I am calling from Southern Idaho Tourism, my name is ____________. Southern Idaho Tourism is maintaining a website on the tourism opportunities available in the Hagerman Valley. Your location/business has been identified as a valuable resource in the area. ------Am I speaking with the owner or manager of (business name)? [if yes then continue/ if no ask if you may speak with, and repeat above speech/ if unavailable ask for a better time to contact or contact information] We are gathering information from local (establishments/businesses) to help best inform tourists visiting the area. The information collected is intended to be applied to a tourism website for the Hagerman Valley that will be incorporated as a part of Southern Idaho Tourism’s marketing efforts. We would like to include your (business/establishment) in this website and provide its hours of operation, seasonal availability, location and contact information. ------What are you regular hours of operation? ------Do you have any seasonal variability in your hours of operation? ----------If yes, what are they? ----------If no, continue.

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------An aspect of the website will include the location of your business on a map. What is the address? ------Do you have an existing website that we would be able to refer interested website users to? [If yes or no, continue] ------ What is the preferred telephone number? ------ What are some additional aspects of your (establishment, business) that you would like see included in a tourism website?

Thank you for taking time out of your day to provide this information. This information will be included on our website at *Include web address.* *Need to speak with Debbie Dane and establish who she would like us to refer the businesses to*

UPDATING EXISTING INFORMATION

Hello, I am calling from Southern Idaho Tourism, my name is ____________. Southern Idaho Tourism is updating their website on tourism opportunities available in the Hagerman Valley. ------Am I speaking with the owner or manager of (business name)? [if yes then continue/ if no ask if you may speak with, and repeat above speech/ if unavailable ask for a better time to contact or contact information] We would like to verify the information we have on the website regarding your business. This will help ensure we are accurately representing your information to potential visitors. ------According to our records, your hours of operation are [read hours from website]. Is this correct? -If yes, continue -If no, “What are your hours now?” ------Will there be any seasonal variations to your hours that we need to include? -If yes, “What are those changes?” -If no, continue ------According to our records, your rates are [read rates from website]. Is this correct? -If yes, continue -If no, “What are your rates?” Continue asking about all aspects of information we have on the website including ------Phone number ------Physical address ------Web address ------Is there anything else you would like included on the website? -If yes, “What would that be?

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Thank you so much for your time today. We will be updating the website to reflect any changes. You are an important business to the area and we appreciate your willingness to be included on our website. If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Dane (or whoever she establishes as the point of contact) at [contact number/email].

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S U M M E R

A U T U M N

W I N T E R

H O M E A B O U T U S T H I N G S T O D O

S P R I N G

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S U M M E R

A U T U M N

W I N T E R


S P R I N G

H o m e t o a v i b r a n t m i x o f c o m m u n i t i e s , f a r m s , a n d n a t u r a l w o n d e r s t h e

H a g e r m a n V a l l e y w a s f o r m e d 1 5 , 0 0 0 y e a r s a g o b y t h e g r e a t B o n n e v i l l e

F l o o d . T h i s d e l u g e c a r v e d o u t c a n y o n s , m o v e d h o u s e - s i z e d b o u l d e r s

a n d l e f t e n o r m o u s s a n d b a r s .

H e r e y o u c a n s e e t h e c a n y o n o f t h e m i g h t y P o h o g a w a , t h e r i v e r o f

t h e S a g e P l a i n , a s t h e N a t i v e A m e r i c a n s c a l l e d t h e S n a k e R i v e r . T o d a y

y o u c a n e x p e r i e n c e i t s r a p i d s , w h i r l p o o l s , w a t e r f a l l s , a n d a s s o c i a t e d

w i l d l i f e .

C o m e t r a v e l l e n g t h o f t h e 1 , 0 0 0 S p r i n g s N a t u r a l S c e n i c B y w a y a n d

e x p e r i e n c e t h e c h a r m o f I d a h o a s i t o n c e w a s – s e e t h e r e a l I d a h o !

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S U M M E R

A U T U M N

W I N T E R


S P R I N G

F I S H I N G

H O T S P R I N G S

G O L F

B I K I N G

R O A D T O U R I N G

B O A T I N G

A G T O U R I S M

C A M P I N G

B I R D I N G

F O S S I L S

D I N I N G

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A U T U M N

W I N T E R

H O M E

S U M M E R

S P R I N G

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A U T U M N

W I N T E R

H O M E

S U M M E R

S P R I N G

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A U T U M N

W I N T E R

H O M E

S U M M E R

S P R I N G

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A U T U M N

W I N T E R

H O M E

S U M M E R

S P R I N G

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A U T U M N

W I N T E R

H O M E

S U M M E R

S P R I N G

Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Unit website Add to trip

V I E W T R I P

Add to trip

The Hagerman Valley is a birders paradise. A unique climate coupled with many acres of preserved land makes the

Hagerman valley a desirable destination for birds and birders alike. Over 100 different bird species make the Hagerman Valley their home for at least a part of the year. There are many accessible areas to view the plentiful variety of birds all year round. While birding is great year round, the best time to go is during the winter. This is due to the availability of unfrozen water from that unique climate we have here in the Hagerman Valley.

The Hagerman Valley prides itself on having the highest number of species for the state and the area has gained a reputation for attracting unusual species such as the Tufted Duck and Whooper Swan. So grab your binoculars and make the trip to one of these top rated birding spots.

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H O M E V I E W T R I P

Your Trip

Bird watching at Ritter Island

Cloverleaf Creamery

Golf at Clear Creek

Fishing at Swan Falls Dam

Hike in Malad Gorge

Scenic By-way from Boise to Bliss

Snake River Grill Hagerman

Hagerman Visitors Center for fossils

Camp at Banbury Hot Springs

Day Two

Day One

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VII. Business and Opportunity Directory

FISHING AND FISHERIES IN HAGERMAN

HATCHERIES

Name of business or

organization Hagerman State Fish Hatchery

Phone number 208-837-4892 Street Address 1060 State Fish Hatchery Road

Hagerman, ID 83332

Website http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/fish/?getPage=93

Hours M-F 7:30 am – 4:30 pm and Weekends7am- 3 pm Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.765925, -114.877633

Additional Notes

The Hagerman State Fish Hatchery produces Rainbow Trout and Coho Salmon. 880 acres of Hagerman Wildlife Management area surround the hatchery providing fishing opportunities for trout, bass, bluegills and carp. ADA fishing access

Name of business or

organization Hagerman National Fish Hatchery

Phone number 208-837-4896. Street Address 3059-D National Fish Hatchery Road

Hagerman, ID 83332 Website http://www.fws.gov/hagerman/ Hours Daily 7am-6pm Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.760371, -114.858942

Additional Notes

Trout fishing is available from March 1 to November 1 at nearby Oster Lake #1 as part of the Hagerman Wildlife Management Area is located on Hagerman National Fish Hatchery grounds. Oster Lake #1 is stocked by the Idaho Department of fish and Game. ADA fishing access

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FISHING GOODS AND LICENSES

Name of business or

organization Hagerman Valley Sports & Mercantile

Phone number 208-837-6044 Street Address 441 S State St.

Hagerman, ID 83332 Website https://www.facebook.com/hagermanidahosports Hours Daily 9am-6pm Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.813342, -114.898300

Additional Notes Fishing licenses, bait, rods, reels, fishing tackle

Name of business or

organization Hagerman Hometown Mart – Shell Station

Phone number 208-837-4033 Street Address 531 S. State St.

Hagerman, ID 83332 Website Hours M-Th 5am-10pm, F-Sat 5am-11pm Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.812442, -114.898315

Additional Notes

Fishing licenses and bait

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FOOD & DINING

Name of business or

organization Snake River Grill

Phone number 208-837-6227 Street Address 611 Frogs Landing

Boise, ID 83332 Website snakeriver-grill.com Hours Closed mon Tues-Thurs and Sun 7am- 9pm Sat 7 am-

9:30 pm Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.811583, -114.899338

Name of business or

organization Papa Kelsey’s

Phone number 208-837-6680 Street Address 310 Main St.

Hagerman, ID 83336 Website Papakelseysonline.com Hours Closed Sun Mon-Fri 7-9 11-9 Sat Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.813247, -114.898891

Name of business or

organization Jo Joes Café

Phone number 208-329-5299 no longer in service Street Address 141 N. State St.

Hagerman, ID 83332 Website Jojoescafe.com Hours ? Season(s) of operation ? Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.816859, -114.898419

Name of business or

organization Passions Café

Phone number 208-837-9035 Street Address 600 State St.

Hagerman, ID Website Facebook Hours 7-2 Closed Sun Season(s) of operation ? Latitude/longitude coordinates ?

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Name of business or

organization Hava Java Café

Phone number 208-387-4444 Street Address 260 S. State St.

Hagerman, ID 83332 Website Havajava-cafe.com Hours Closed Mon Tues-Sat 7-4 Sat 8-3 Season(s) of operation Year round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.815059, -114.898854

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MOUNTAIN BIKING

Name of business or

organization Thousand Springs State Park

Phone number 208-837-4505 Street Address 1074 E. 2350 S.

Hagerman, ID 83332 Website http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-

springs Hours 7:30am – 4pm Season(s) of operation Memorial Day – Labor Day Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.635, 114.505

Name of business or

organization Spoke and Wheel bike shop

Phone number 208-734-6033 Street Address 148 Addison Ave

Twin Falls, ID 83301 Website http://spokeandwheelbike.com Hours Mon- Fri 9-6 , Sat 9-5 Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.562896, -114.478574

Additional Notes

Hagerman area trails consist of gravel roads, however no maps of regional trails and no rentals in the immediate area.

Name of business or

organization Epic Ride Cyclery

Phone number 208-733-7433 Street Address 2064 Kimberly Road

Twin Falls, ID 83301 Website http://epicridecyclery.com/ Hours Closed Sun Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 10-4 Season(s) of operation Year round. Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.548074, -114.444055

Additional Notes

Magic mountain and Sun Valley are where most of their clientele go. No info on Hagerman Trails. A couple of rentals and some demo bikes but very cautious about who they rent or demo bikes to.

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Bike Rentals

Name of business or

organization Cycle Therapy

Phone number 208-733-1319 Street Address 1542 Fillmore St.

Twin Falls, ID 83301 Website http://cycletherapy-rx.com/ Hours Closed Sun, Mon-Fri 11-6, Sat 10-5 Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.589118, -114.464716

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FOSSILS

Name of business or

organization Fossil Beds at - U.S. 30 and Idaho 50

Contact person Annette Rosseau Email [email protected] Phone number 208-933-4126 Street Address 221 N State St, Hagerman, ID Website http://www.nps.gov/hafo/index.htm Hours Summer (Memorial Day-Labor Day)

Daily 9:00am-5:00pm Winter (Labor Day-Memorial Day) Th-M 9am-5pm

Season(s) of operation Year round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.817627, -114.898333

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ROAD TOURING

Name of business or

organization U.S. 30 and Idaho 50

Phone number NA Street Address NA Website http://www.visitidaho.org/scenic-byways/thousand-

springs-scenic-byway/ Hours Daylight hours optimal Season(s) of operation Year round Latitude/longitude coordinates NA

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GOLF

Name of business or

organization Clear Lake County Club

Phone number 208-543-4849 Street Address 403 Clear Lakes Lanes, Buhl ID Website http://www.clearlakecc.org/ Hours March- October 8am-7pm

November-February 9am-4pm Season(s) of operation Open Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.668237, -114.777181

Name of business or

organization Vineyard Greens

Phone number 208-366-7531 Street Address 1289 West Madison Ave, Glenns Ferry ID Website Crossingwinery.com Hours 11am-9pm Season(s) of operation Year Round- Weather Permitting Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.944558, -115.311814

Additional Notes

Crossingwinery.com is currently being developed. Should be live early 2015

Name of business or

organization Gooding Golf Course

Phone number n/a Street Address n/a Website n/a Hours n/a Season(s) of operation n/a Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.919869, -114.703875

Additional Notes No information has been provided for Gooding Golf Course. It is assumed the course is closed for winter. Check back in early spring or first update.

Name of business or

organization Jerome County Club

Phone number 208-324-5281 Street Address 649 Golf Course Road, Jerome ID Website http://www.jeromecountryclub.com/ Hours Dusk till dark Season(s) of operation Year Round- Weather Permitting Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.635966, -114.507879

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HIKING

Name of business or

organization 1000 Springs State Park- Billingsley Creek

Phone number 208-837-4505 Street Address 1074 E 2350 S. Hagerman Idaho 83332 Website http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-

springs Hours Sunrise to sunset Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.829933, -114.888361

Name of business or

organization 1000 Springs State Park- Malad Gorge

Phone number 208-837-4505 Street Address Tuttle Exit, off Interstate 84 Website http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-

springs Hours 8 AM-4 PM Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.8578, -114.8764

Name of business or

organization 1000 Springs State Park- Kelton Trail


springs Hours Sunrise-sunset Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.829933, -114.888361

Name of business or

organization 1000 Springs State Park- Niagra Springs



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Name of business or organization 1000 Springs State Park- Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Phone number 208-837-4505 Street Address 1074 E 2350 S. Hagerman Idaho 83332 Website http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-


Name of business or

organization Hagerman Wildlife Management Area

Phone number 208-324-4359 Street Address I-84, Exit 155, Hagerman and Wendell Website http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/ifwis/ibt/site.aspx?id=8

7 Hours Sunrise-sunset Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.7693, -114.8786

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CAMPING

Name of business or

organization 1000 Springs State Park

Phone number 208-837-4505 Street Address 1074 E 2350 S. Hagerman ID 83332 Website http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-

springs Hours Vary depending on unit Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.829933, -114.888361

Name of business or

organization Hagerman RV Village

Phone number 208-837-4906 Street Address 18049 Hwy 30 Hagerman, ID 83332 Website http://www.hagermanrvvillage.com/ Hours Sunrise-sunset Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.826, -114.929

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Name of business or

organization Sportsman’s River Resort

Phone number 208-837-6364 Street Address 5 Gilhooley Ln. Hagerman, ID 83332 Website N/A. Resources on VisitIdaho.com,

Visitsouthidaho.com Hours Sunrise-sunset Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.748, -114.852

Name of business or

organization Rock Lodge Resort and Campground

Phone number 208-837-4822 Street Address 17940 Highway 30 Hagerman, ID 83332 Website N/A Hours Sunrise-sunset Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.8362, -114.8935

Name of business or

organization High Adventure River Tours RV Park

Phone number 208-837-9005 Street Address 1211 E 2350 S. Hagerman, ID 83332 Website N/A Hours N/A Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates -42.8582, -114.8498

Name of business or

organization Banbury Hot Springs

Phone number 208-543-4098 Street Address 1128 Banbury Rd. Buhl, ID 83316 Website Banburyhotsprings.com Hours Daily Noon-9 PM Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.688, -114.826

Name of business or

organization Miracle Hot Springs

Phone number 208-543-6002 Street Address 19073 A Hwy 30 Buhl, ID 83332 Website Mhsprings.com Hours M-Sat: 8-11 pm Sun: Closed

Holidays: regular hours, unless on a Sunday Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.695, -114.857

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Name of business or

organization 1000 Springs Resort

Phone number 208-837-4987 Street Address 18734 Hwy 30 Hagerman, ID 83332 Website 1000springsresort.com Hours Tue-Thurs: 11 AM-8:30 PM

F-Sat: 11 AM-9:30 PM Sunday 12 PM-8 PM Limited winter hours, extended summer hours

Season(s) of operation Year-round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.742, -114.85

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BIRDING

Name of business or

organization Hagerman Wildlife Management Area

Phone number 208-324-4359 Street Address N/A Website http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/ifwis/ibt/site.aspx?id=8

7 Hours None Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.765455, -114.878821

Name of business or

organization 1000 Spring State Park- Billingsly Creek

Phone number (208)-837-4505 Street Address 1074 E. 2350 S. Hagerman Idaho 83332 Website http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/thousand-

springs Hours Sunrise to Sunset Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.829933, -114.888361

Name of business or

organization 1000 Spring State Park- Malad Gorge Unit



Name of business or

organization 1000 Spring State Park- Box Canyon Unit



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Name of business or

organization 1000 Spring State Park- Niagara Springs Unit



Name of business or

organization Upper Salmon Falls Dam and Park

Phone number ((208) 388-2231 Street Address Website https://www.idahopower.com/OurEnvironment/Recr

eation/hagerman/default.cfm Hours Sunrise to Sunset Season(s) of operation Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.841755, -114.902106

Name of business or

organization 1000 Spring State Park- Niagara Springs Unit



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HOT SPRINGS

Name of business or

organization 1000 Springs Resort

Phone number 208-837-4987 Street Address 18734 HWY 30

Hagerman, ID 83332 Website http://1000springsresort.com/ Hours Tue-Thurs: 11 AM- 8:30 PM

F-Sat: 11AM- 9:30 PM Sunday: 12PM- 8 PM Monday: Closed (Except for major holidays)

Season(s) of operation Open Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.742392, -114.848435

Additional Notes

Lifeguard on duty. Only indoor swimming pool in Hagerman ID area. Large Party room available. Bring your own food or purchase from snack bar Private hot baths available 17 indoor Jacuzzi 2’ kiddy pool Tube slide 2 diving boards Floating log and basketball hoop Therapeutic massages

Name of business or

organization Miracle Hot Springs

Phone number 208-543-6002 Street Address 19703A HWY 30

Buhl, ID 83316 Website http://www.mhsrpings.com Hours Monday-Saturday: 8 AM-11 PM Season(s) of operation Open Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.694750, -114.856562

Additional Notes

15 private hot pools,6 VIP pools,4 outdoor public pools

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Name of business or

organization Banbury Hot Springs

Phone number 208-543-4098 Street Address 1128A Banbury Road

Buhl, ID 83316 Website http://www.banburyhotsprings,com Hours 12 PM – 9 PM

Seven Days a Week Season(s) of operation Open Year Round Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.690135, -114.826706

Additional Notes

Geothermal swimming pool. Private Hot Tubs and Jacuzzis. Day use area for picnics with party tents available. Areas available for weddings, retreats, reunions, and corporate and community events

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RAFTING

Name of business or

organization Idaho Guide Service

Phone number 208.734.4998 or toll-free 1-888-73-IDAHO Street Address 563 Trotter Dr.

Twin Falls, ID 83301 Website Idahoguideservice.com Hours Varies – Contact business to arrange a date Season(s) of operation Varies – Weather plays a large role in whitewater

availability Latitude/longitude coordinates Contact owners for permission.

Additional Notes

Idaho Guide Service could not be reached for official comment. This information collected through web-based research.

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AGRICULTURAL TOURISM

Name of business or

organization Ballard Family Dairy & Cheese

Phone number (208) 420-1576 Street Address 1764 South 2100 East

Gooding, ID 83330 Website www.ballardcheese.com Hours Call for appointment Season(s) of operation Call for appointment Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.944677, -114.673865

Name of business or

organization Howling Winds Farm – Yak Farm

Phone number (208) 837-6631 Street Address 2932 South 1050 East

Hagerman, ID 83332 Website www.howlingwindsfarm.com Hours Call for appointment Season(s) of operation Call for appointment Latitude/longitude coordinates 42.777282, -114.878028

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Government & Nonprofit

Hagerman Valley Website Development Report