This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Ice Age Floods Institute (IAFI), a milestone that offers an opportunity to reflect on the Institute’s foundational role in bringing the story of the Ice Age floods to national prominence and in establishing the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail.
Founded in 1995, IAFI emerged from a collective recognition of the need to educate the public about the cataclysmic floods that shaped the landscapes of Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. Through persistent advocacy, community engagement, and educational initiatives, IAFI laid the groundwork for what would become the nation’s first National Geologic Trail.
The culmination of these efforts was the passage of Public Law 111-11 in 2009, which officially designated the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail. This achievement was the result of a bipartisan effort, with key support from U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and U.S. Representative Doc Hastings (R-WA), who were primary sponsors of the trail legislation. Other notable supporters included Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Larry Craig (R-ID), Patty Murray (D-WA), and Gordon Smith (R-OR). Their collective commitment underscored the shared value placed on preserving and interpreting this significant geologic history.
A celebratory ribbon-cutting event was held on May 27, 2009, just after Congress passed the legislation. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell and U.S. Representative Doc Hastings were joined by Gary Kleinknecht, then-president of the Ice Age Floods Institute. The ribbon-cutting symbolized more than legislative success—it celebrated years of behind-the-scenes advocacy by IAFI leaders and members who worked tirelessly with elected officials to see the trail officially recognized.
Since the trail’s designation, the partnership between IAFI and the National Park Service has been integral to the development and interpretation of the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail. Collaborative projects have included the creation of interpretive materials, the planning of educational programs, and the development of enhanced digital maps and content to guide visitors through the trail’s extensive network. These joint efforts have been essential in bringing the story of the Ice Age floods to a broader audience.
Looking Ahead: Shared Leadership and Future Potential
As the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail continues to develop, the professional relationship between the Trail’s current National Park Service program manager. Justin Radford, and IAFI’s president, Dr. Gary Ford, exemplifies a strong and effective partnership. Built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to public education and stewardship, our collaboration helps ensure that strategic goals are aligned, innovative educational resources are developed, and public engagement with the Ice Age Floods story continues to grow. This cooperative leadership reflects the enduring values that brought the Trail into existence and remains essential to its continued success.
Plans are underway for expanded educational outreach and increased community engagement initiatives. These endeavors aim to deepen public understanding and appreciation of the Ice Age floods’ impact on the region’s geography, while strengthening the relationships that support the Trail’s future.
As we celebrate IAFI’s 30-year milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to IAFI’s members, volunteers, and supporters. Your dedication has been instrumental in transforming a vision into a tangible trail that educates and inspires countless visitors. Together, we look forward to continuing this journey of discovery and interpretation for years to come
By Justin Radford, National Park Service – Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail Program Manager