Clarkston, Wash. – Gateway Park, located near the Snake River at the corner of Bridge Street and Riverview Street in Clarkston, Washington, will be converted into a natural area by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The City of Clarkston managed the park for many years but terminated its lease with USACE in March of 2022. Over the next year, USACE will be transitioning the area to a more natural state by planting native grasses, shrubs, and trees.

 “The area will be transitioned to a low-maintenance natural area, benefiting local pollinator species and birds. The Corps manages many parks and developed recreation areas throughout the Lewiston/Clarkston valley for the public. But we also manage public lands to benefit nature. This small area will be managed for that purpose,” said Chris Alford, Chief of Natural Resources Management for the Walla Walla District.

Park rangers will continue to patrol the area, but visitors should report illegal activities to the local police.