Adopt-A-Pathway

Nampa Parks & Recreation Adopt-a-Pathway Program

Nampa Parks and Recreation maintains more than 13 miles of connected pathways and fitness trails along various creeks and irrigation drains. These pathways provide year-round wildlife viewing, recreation and fitness opportunities. Many residents also use the pathways as a pleasant alternative form of transportation to travel to schools, parks, neighborhoods and other areas of interest. Mallard ducks, wood ducks, geese and osprey are the most common wildlife found on the pathways, in addition, the occasional bald eagle, beaver and mink can also be found. It takes a lot of work to keep the pathways and irrigation drains safe, clean and healthy for all visitors. Volunteers play an important role in helping Nampa Parks and Recreation maintain these treasured areas. The Adopt-a-Pathway program is a great way for families, organized groups, community service groups and businesses to take an active stewardship role in helping maintain the health and ecological integrity of the pathways and irrigation drains. Program participants can adopt a section of pathway for a set period (term) and regularly monitor the area for trash, debris, invasive species, vandalism as well as help with other maintenance needs.

Volunteer Adoption Group Responsibilities: 

• Participants must complete an Adopt a Pathway Agreement form and forms must be returned to mancinia@cityofnampa.us  Group leaders may sign off on behalf of their group.  

• Be respectful to citizens using the pathways for recreational purpose. Respect wildlife habitat, private property, and all Irrigation District regulations.

• Patrol the adopted area and collect litter and properly dispose trash in dumpsters or leave bags in identified locations for Nampa Parks staff to collect.

• Assess and report the condition of trees, pathway, and facilities in the adopted area. Identify fallen trees or broken branches.

• Cut “volunteer” tree saplings and un-wanted brush (See Invasive Species list). Collect fallen branches and twigs and make identified piles. (Nampa Parks staff will clean-up piles)

• Groups are welcome to coordinate a minimum of one (1) large service project per term served. Projects to be discussed and considered with Nampa Parks staff.

• Identify and remove invasive plants and noxious weeds.  

Volunteer Adoption Group Safety: 

• Use good judgement when working - Do not perform work in unsafe conditions, do not create an unsafe environment, avoid hazardous materials, drug paraphernalia and patrons mis-using the pathway. (Notify Nampa Parks staff of hazardous conditions and misuse)   

• Wear gloves, longs pants, and closed-toe shoes.

• Wear a hat and long sleeves whenever possible to protect skin. Wear sunscreen on exposed skin.

• Always work at a comfortable pace - Do not overexert, especially during hot weather. Be sure to hydrate.

• Be alert for snakes, stinging insects, poison Ivy, and aggressive geese - (especially during nesting season).

• Beware of steep inclines and steep banks along water ways.

• Avoid areas where herbicide has been applied. Look for signs or flags on the pathway.

Program Requirements:

• Ensure that a minimum of (1) adult volunteer is present for every (10) youth volunteers.

• Park vehicles in authorized parking areas only.

• Do not work in an area alone. Always be in pairs at a minimum.

• Do not touch materials that appear to be hazardous.

• Do not work outside of the pathway property line and stay out of water ways.

• Do not pick up dead animals, large fallen trees, homeless camps or hazardous items. (Notify Nampa Parks staff)

• If discarded needles and/or drug paraphernalia is found, notify Nampa Parks staff. DO NOT pick-up.   

• Be cautious when picking up sharp objects. Be sure the trash bag is labeled “sharp objects”. The City of Nampa Parks and Recreation Responsibilities: Oversight of the Adopt a Pathway Program and support the volunteer adoption group with:

• Provide appropriate training for the volunteer group to care for their adopted area safely and successfully. This includes an on-site orientation to familiarize the volunteer group with the expectations.  

• Communicate to the volunteer groups about special events or unique circumstances being held on the pathways (events, closures, chemical applications, tree removals, service projects, etc.)

• Acknowledge the group/business adopting the pathway with signage located within their adopted area.

• Assist volunteer groups with work parties, large projects, debris pick-up, hazardous materials, and trash bag pick-up.

• Provide volunteer groups with basic tools, garbage bags and access to the adopted area.

• Periodic progress report and site visit to support successful results.