NEW VERSION OF BILL COMING SOON – REFER TO H0608 MOVING FORWARD
This new measure will allow for a willing & qualified landowner to designate land that will remain in production agriculture for a period of 20 years. You can read full bill text HERE
Background: H0473 amends Idaho code to provide for agricultural protection areas to qualified applicants. The intention is to protect the important benefits of sustaining Idaho’s economy, food production, and wildlife habitat as provided by production agriculture. With the rapid population growth, many working production ag operations are being lost or converted, with limited resources to protect these property rights. A qualified applicant is defined as someone who owns 5 acres or more and has a documented history of production agriculture for a time frame of no less than 3 consecutive previous years. This measure additionally provides guidelines for the addition of an ag protection commission operating and collaborating on a local level with the appropriate governing body.
Why is this important to cattle producers in Idaho?
Production agriculture is a primary driver of the state economy, with livestock being the number one commodity input. This legislation allows not only provides a voluntary option to preserve qualified ag land for a period of 20 years, but it enhances property rights of the individual and supports Idaho’s right to farm.
Does ICA support this proposed bill?
How do I take action?
