SILOAM SPRINGS -- Though not officially open yet, the Siloam Springs Whitewater Recreation Park is drawing kayakers from around the region to play in the rapids there and practice their skills.
The park, built just downstream from the old Fisher Ford Bridge which has now been removed, features two drops and accompanying rapids.
On Saturday the Illinois River Watershed Partnership, with the help of volunteers, installed two rain gardens at the new park on the Illinois River. Volunteers helped with planting, mulching and watering plants. The rain gardens were planted to collect storm-water runoff and allow it to slowly soak into the ground. Native plants are used because they grow deep roots that filter pollutants to improve water quality. The two rain gardens at the park are to treat runoff from the parking lot and other paved surfaces.
The park and its white-water features, with a price tag of $1.4 million, was paid for by the Walton Family Foundation. The city of Siloam Springs will maintain the 40-acre park.
TSP Environmental of Redford, Mich., is the general contractor for the project.
Driving Directions
From Siloam Springs, take Ark. Hwy. 59 south for 2 miles to Devor Rd. Turn left on Devor Rd. and follow for .4 miles to Fisher Ford Rd. Turn right on Fisher Ford Rd. and continue to the park entrance and new parking area.
Sports on 05/07/2014