STATUS : PASSED IN 2023
This legislation adds a new section to Idaho Code, Title 58, Chapter 1, with the purpose of protecting State endowment land from being abused and misused. You can learn more about endowment land here.
Back ground : SB 1049 gives the State Board of Land Commissioner’s agents the ability to cite and fine those misusing endowment lands. If a person is found guilty of violating the statue and subsequent rules that are promulgated, the person would get a warning ticket on the first violation. However, if the person causes damage to the land, then the violation would be treated as a criminal trespass. While most recreational users behave responsibly, occasionally a few bad actors will cause substantial damage to gates, fences, timber, or areas unavailable for recreation use. Currently, those who damage endowment land may only face misdemeanor or felony charges. Because there is only one category of penalty in statute, prosecuting attorneys are reluctant to bring such heavy-handed charges forward for minor offenses. Consequently, in severe cases the only recourse available to Idaho Department of Lands is to close endowment land to public access. Cattle ranchers and outdoor recreators are both users of Idaho’s public lands. The ICA has a policy supporting collaborative work with other land users and recreational groups to develop solutions to the challenges presented by increased recreational pressures.
Why is this important to cattle producers in Idaho?
State grazing leases are attributed to 260,348 AUM in the state of Idaho. With the influx of growth to the state, there is also increased pressure from recreation. As a result, more and more ranchers have experienced challenges dealing with gates, fences and/or the obstruction or damage of cattle handling equipment on state lands leases.
Does ICA support this proposed bill?
Yes – ICA has member directed policy that supports working in collaboration with different users of public lands to find solutions to these challenges! The association and its members also support active management of public lands.
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.
