STATUS : BILL HAS PASSED BOTH BODIES AND IS AWAITING SIGNATURE FROM THE GOVERNOR.
This legislation would amend Idaho code to give the Idaho Department of Lands the ability to extend grazing leases to a potential maximum of 40 years on state endowment lands. You can read full bill text HERE.
Background: S1342 gives Idaho Department of Lands the authority to extend a grazing lease for a term of up to 40 years on state endowment land. Currently the term is a 20 year maximum. Having a longer lease term allows permittees long term consistency for planning, as well as offers a more constant revenue for endowment fund, in addition to reducing cost to the endowment surrounding cost of renewal of a lease.
Why is this important to cattle producers in Idaho?
Idaho’s public lands constitute approx. 66% of the state and as part of multiple use, livestock grazing is a vital element of maintaining these lands. Livestock operators care for the land and many times a long-term plan, coupled with predictability for the term, can increase their success of stewardship of land and wildlife, as part of their lease commitment. Including grazing as part of multiple use continues to provide great benefit to the state through reduced wildfire risk, as well as reduced management costs.
Does ICA support this proposed bill?
Yes. We have member driven resolution which states that ICA shall work with IDL & the Land Board to ensure that they understand the need for the grazing program to remain a valuable component of the endowment asset portfolio because it provides a predictable, stable, and low risk cash flow to the endowment.
How do I take action?
You can participate in one of the below actions to have an impact as an individual. ICA will continue to submit comments on issues as a representative of its members, but this is a quick and easy way to submit comments as an individual.
