This past week, the U.S. Forest Service smokejumpers were able to use an ideal training ground –  Huffman Pasture, a 70-acre open space owned and protected by Payette Land Trust.

Originally granted to PLT in 2001 by conservation-minded landowner Phyllis Huffman, Huffman Pasture is located along Farm to Market Rd and Potter Ln and has long served as a permanent open space for wildlife, cattle grazing, and community benefit. Now, it’s playing a vital role in wildfire preparedness. With Forest Service lands still too wet for training operations, PLT granted access for the smokejumpers to use Huffman Pasture. Its proximity to the airport and roads make it an excellent location.

This collaboration highlights the value of protected open spaces. Places like the Huffman Pasture can serve flexible, community-driven purposes.