March 13, 2026
UPDATED NEWS RELEASE – REWARD OFFERED
Bonneville County Sheriff’s Deputies continue to investigate tips and leads relating to vandalism discovered recently at Blacktail Park on the upper end of Ririe Reservoir. The damage was discovered just over a week ago after Bonneville County Parks and Recreation staff opened the area early due to light winter conditions.
East Idaho Crime Stoppers has since offered a reward of $500 for information leading to the arrest of suspects involved in this crime. Anyone with tips and information can report anonymously online at www.IFcrime.org.
East Idaho Crime Stoppers is operated by business and community members throughout East Idaho and partners with Law Enforcement agencies in 17 counties to receive tips and information anonymously through their website, www.IFcrime.org. This invaluable partnership ensures anonymity of information and helps keep our communities safe by assisting Law Enforcement.
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Original Release:
March 6th, 2026
NEWS RELEASE
Bonneville County Sheriff’s Deputies are investigating vandalism and damages to the Blacktail Park on the upper end of the Ririe Reservoir that has prompted a closure of the area. Bonneville County Commissioners and Parks and Recreation staff recently opened the area that’s usually closed during snow and winter conditions, but closed it yesterday (Mar. 5th) after discovering significant damages to the area.
While Parks and Recreation staff were performing maintenance and readying the area for use, they discovered wires to pumps and sprinkler systems had been cut and damaged along with cables and components of floating docks and gangways. So far, the cost of replacement and repair of damages is estimated to be more $8000 and could delay re-opening of the area.
Use of Blacktail Park and other county recreation areas requires a significant amount of maintenance to ensure docks, ramps, and picnic areas are safe for public use. Use fees and resources from county funds are limited and damages this significant make it difficult for our community to enjoy these recreational resources.
Currently gates and access to Blacktail Park are closed to all motorized vehicles, ATVs, UTVs and Motorcycles until the area is repaired and made ready for summer recreation.
Deputies are continuing to investigate and asking anyone with information about this crime to contact them through Bonneville County Dispatch at 208-529-1200. With this an any other crime, tips and information can be reported anonymously online through East Idaho Crimestoppers at www.IFcrime.org.
