Watch the latest videos from HFF’s Membership Meeting, featuring key updates and discussions on conservation efforts and the future of the Henry’s Fork watershed.
Dr. Rob Van Kirk delivered an insightful hour-long presentation on the multifaceted topic of river health and the important work of the Henry’s Fork Foundation (HFF). Throughout the session, he explored various trends affecting the river’s ecosystem, including climate shifts, changes in hatch patterns, and how these factors impact both fish populations and fishing conditions. Dr. Van Kirk also highlighted the collaborative efforts and partnerships that HFF has fostered over the years, sharing key accomplishments that have contributed to the sustainability of the watershed.
The presentation was not only informative but also deeply personal, as Dr. Van Kirk reflected on his 40-year relationship with the Henry’s Fork. He shared poignant memories, beginning with his first fishing trip as a young boy with his father and brother, a moment that sparked his lifelong connection to the river. As he wrapped up the presentation, he gave a heartfelt nod to the mentors and individuals who have influenced and guided him along the way. He even touched on a recent, memorable fishing day just a few weeks ago, underscoring the enduring impact the Henry’s Fork has had on his life, both personally and professionally.
Visit HFF’s YouTube channel to view highlights from this year’s 40th Anniversary edition of the Annual Membership Meeting. You’ll also find recordings from the weekly summer seminar series, which, this year is a series of panel discussions where Henry’s Fork experts talk all things Henry’s Fork — hatches, climate, history, collaboration, water quality, and much more.
Our Aquatic Ecology Program Manager, Dr. Jack McLaren, joined Idaho Falls city and FIPS-Mouche leadership at the opening ceremony parade along the Snake River Greenbelt to welcome competitors to the watershed and to make sure conservation was front and center.
Drone photo of Island Park Dam taken on September 9, 2026 Looking Back on September September brought lows and highs to Island Park. Island Park Reservoir started September at 29% full and quickly fell to a low of 12% full on September 19. The rapid drawdown of the reservoir was the result of managers needing to move water downstream to American Falls (to irrigate farms in the Magic Valley with senior water rights). Such low
This story was written by Audrey Hunter (2026 intern) and was originally published in the Fall 2026 Newsletter. It’s no secret that late summers on Island Park Reservoir haven’t been in perfect conditions in recent years. Warm, turbid, algae-filled water plague reservoir recreationists while diminishing water quality downstream. Cyclical algal blooms decrease water clarity and create less-than-ideal circumstances for the reservoir’s flora and fauna. What’s the solution? HFF’s DIRTT Plan. In-Reservoir Oxygenation Nutrients released from
Drone photo taken on September 9, 2026 The Henry’s Fork Drought Management Planning Committee met on Wednesday, September 16 2026 to develop an updated reservoir management strategy. Downstream of the Henry’s Fork watershed, lower-valley irrigation demand over the rest of the season is anticipated to be slightly lower than projected last week, so Island Park Reservoir and Grassy Lake (in the Fall River drainage) do not need to deliver any more water out of the
