Lenore interpretive signs are located in a highway rest area on the north side of U.S. Highway 12 about 25 miles east of Lewiston, Idaho. This archeological site contains evidence of early occupation by ancestral Nez Perce dating from about 8,500 years ago. For perhaps 10,000 years the Lenore site was inhabited by Nez Perce and their ancestors. At least part of it was excavated archaeologically. It lies in a highly maintained state rest area with mowed lawns, pruned trees, and roadways with curbs and gutter and ample parking. The landscape visible from the riverbanks gives one a sense of the natural landform and early conditions.

The area is a popular access point to the Clearwater River for fishing, boating, and other aquatic activities.

MANAGEMENT ISSUES

• The site merits more interpretation than a single sign.

ACTION PLAN

• The interpretive panel will be up dated and corrected.

• Visitors will be told about the entire park and referred to the Spalding visitor center.

• The Park Service will work with the state to develop the site as an orientation site with additional interpretation of Nez Perce village life and fishing. The current memorandum of understanding will be revised.

• Strategies will be developed for preservation of the site and its cultural resources.