I’m new to the Pacific Northwest. Where I grew up, seasons were barely detectable in the temperate Mediterranean climate, where intermittent rivers would only flow after a rare, substantial rainstorm. But here in Idaho, the seasons are distinct; there is ample water flowing in the rivers and a wonderful spectacle of wildlife and flora that flourish in the spoils of that precious water.
I live and work in the Treasure Valley of Idaho, one of the largest metro areas in the Pacific Northwest, and am fortunate to call Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge an “office” from time to time. Deer Flat NWR is located fewer than 30 miles from the bustle of the state capital of Boise and within the city of Nampa — Idaho’s third largest city and one of the fastest growing cities in the country.