By Megan Boatwright, Local News 8 Reporter

The idea that a snail, half the size of a dime, would delay construction on a new boat ramp might sound silly but it's happening in Idaho Falls.

Idaho Falls Power started reconstructing a public access boat ramp at South Tourist Park last year.  So far construction hasn't even begun, thanks to the Utah Valvata Snail.

The Valvata Snail is currently listed as an endangered species, and present in that area of the Snake River.  This isn't the first time the Valvata Snail has delayed construction in Eastern Idaho. 

In 2003 reconstruction of a Firth Bridge was put on hold  because of the Valvata Snail.  After much red tape the project was allowed to continue, which is what will likely happen in Idaho Falls.

Complaints about the South Tourist Park boat ramp started in 2007.  The ramp is owned by the city, but maintained by Idaho Falls power.

Tests in July showed the snail is present in the area, which meant Idaho Falls Power would have to jump through more hoops than anticipated.  

"We had to assess the project and determine how many snails were going to be impacted," said Richard Malloy, Compliance Manager for Idaho Falls Power.  "We proposed some mitigation then turned in the assessment to U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service."

Malloy had to get the green light from four government agencies, but says they've all been co-operative and haven't stopped the project. 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife has given Idaho Falls Power the go-ahead.  Now, Malloy is waiting to hear back from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.