GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
for
Nez Perce National Historical Park
and
Big Hole National Battlefield

WEIPPE PRAIRIE

Weippe Prairie is a swath of camas prairie trending northwest to southeast. The town of Weippe is situated within this swath along Idaho Highway 11. The site is a traditional gathering place where the Nez Perce harvested camas root, socialized, and worshiped for thousands of years. Lewis and Clark made their first contact with the Nez Perce at this site in 1805. This national historic landmark is also associated with the 1877 Nez Perce War; the nontreaty bands held a council on this prairie following the Clearwater Battle.

The roadside sign just west of Weippe introduces you to the area. The visitor must follow the directions to the actual meeting place where signs tell the story of Clark's encounter with the Nez Perce. Although the exact meeting site is on private property, it is easily visible from the signs.
Map of site

 MANAGEMENT ISSUES

  • Directions to "actual site" are confusing.

  • Interpretive signs focus on Lewis and Clark, downplaying the long-term Nez Perce use and the assistance the Nez Perce gave to Lewis and Clark.

  • Further cooperative agreements are needed for the maintenance of the sign at the meeting site.

 ACTION PLAN

  • Interpretation will be expanded beyond Lewis and Clark's meeting the Nez Perce to include the story of the Nez Perce continuum.

  • Directional signs to the site will be improved.

  • Research will be conducted to identify critical resources.


http://www.nps.gov/nepe/gmp8-20.htm
Last Updated: 12-Nov-1999 ÿ