Resident raises safety and habitat concerns about disc golf at River's Edge Park; council seeks signage and association cooperation

At the Columbia Falls City Council meeting a resident, Dave Peterson, used the public-comment period to urge the council to review placement of disc golf baskets at River's Edge Park, saying several baskets lie in a riparian "boardwalk" area and one basket appeared close to water and habitat used by bird life. Peterson said he initially opposed the installation but changed his view after seeing young families enjoying the feature; his primary concern remained safety for walkers and preservation of the undisturbed riparian area.

Peterson described watching players test baskets and noted one basket that he estimated to be 15 feet from water behind the boardwalk. He asked whether the city or an association provided a map showing launch pads and basket placement; he recommended the council or staff inspect the placements and consider adjustments so walkers and disc golfers can safely share the park.

Council members and staff discussed outreach and enforcement options. City Manager Eric Mulcahy said installations often involve an association that fundraised for the amenity, and that the city typically assumes enforcement responsibility once features are installed. He said signage, a course map and etiquette rules would be part of the River's Edge project signage package. Councilors suggested reaching out to the disc-golf group to discuss etiquette and to consider adjusting baskets that are too close to pedestrian routes or sensitive habitat.

Ending: Staff said they would follow up by contacting the disc golf association, reviewing basket placement and preparing signage and etiquette guidance as part of park project rollouts.