Racists' property now a campus

Seattle Times/July 7, 2002

Hayden Lake, Idaho -- Once a haven for hatred, the former Aryan Nations compound will be bustling with students this fall.

Biology, botany and geology students from North Idaho College will use the 20-acre site as a field classroom when the fall semester begins in late August.

The property is ideal for studying native plants and animals, water and land conservation and other environmental concerns. It also has varied geology, said Jerry Gee, a college vice president.

More than 100 students will use the campus formerly owned by white supremacist Richard Butler. Philanthropist Greg Carr acquired and donated the land after Butler lost it to bankruptcy.