Agricultural Affairs

MINUTES
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
DATE: Tuesday, February 10, 2026
TIME: 8:00 A.M.
PLACE: Room WW53
MEMBERS
PRESENT:
Chairman Nichols, Vice Chairman Zito, Senators Lakey, Lent, VanOrden, Blaylock,
Kohl, Semmelroth, and Taylor
ABSENT/
EXCUSED:
NOTE: The sign-in sheet, testimonies and other related materials will be retained with
the minutes in the committee's office until the end of the session and will then be
located on file with the minutes in the Legislative Services Library.
CONVENED: Chairman Nichols called the meeting of the Senate Agricultural Affairs Committee
(Committee) to order at 8:01 a.m.
MINUTES
APPROVAL:
Senator Lakey moved to approve the Minutes of January 29, 2026. Senator
Taylor seconded the motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
MINUTES
APPROVAL:
Senator Lakey moved to approve the Minutes of February 3, 2026. Senator Kohl
seconded the motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
PASSED THE
GAVEL:
Chairman Nichols passed the gavel to Vice Chairman Zito.
RS 33191 Relating to Abatement of Rats. Chairman Nichols explained the legislation
declared Norway rats as a public nuisance and invasive pests under existing
Idaho law, allowed coordination and oversight with the Idaho State Department of
Agriculture (ISDA), and established reporting, transparency, and public education to
address infestation quickly. She noted the ISDA and local county officials agreed
this issue was a growing problem that required early and coordinated action.
MOTION: Senator Semmelroth moved to send RS 33191 to print. Senator Taylor seconded
the motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
RS 33266 Relating to Alternative Animal Protein Labeling. Chairman Nichols explained
the legislation aimed to keep consumers informed about new food technologies.
The legislation required clear labeling of alternative animal protein that was not
derived from livestock production or wild game harvest. RS 33266 prevented the
use of terms associated with specific meat cuts for alternative animal protein
products. She noted other states had already passed similar legislation.
MOTION: Senator Blaylock moved to send RS 33266 to print. Senator Lakey seconded the
motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
PASSED THE
GAVEL:
Vice Chairman Zito passed the gavel back to Chairman Nichols.
S 1242 POTATO COMMISSION - Amends and repeals existing law to remove outdated
provisions. Senator Blaylock stated the legislation was code cleanup. It was
submitted by the Idaho Potato Commission and reviewed by the Idaho DOGE
Task Force. The legislation removed outdated language, repealed an outdated
referendum provision, and repealed redundancies.
MOTION: Senator VanOrden moved to send S 1242 to the floor with a do pass
recommendation. Senator Semmelroth seconded the motion. The motion carried
by voice vote.

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S 1243 Idaho ONEPLAN - Amends existing law to remove outdated references to the
"Idaho OnePlan". Senator Blaylock explained that similar to S 1242, this was a
code cleanup bill. The statutory references to the Idaho OnePlan were removed
due to being a conservation planning tool that was no longer in use.
MOTION: Senator Lakey moved to send S 1243 to the floor with a do pass recommendation.
Senator Kohl seconded the motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
S 1241 ANIMALS - Adds to existing law to provide for the protection of working
animals. Senator Shippy stated the legislation would protect the lawful and
long-standing use of working animals in Idaho. The legislation defined working
animals and did not interfere with existing animal cruelty laws. It prohibited city
and county ordinances from creating stricter regulations than those in state code.
Senator Shippy requested S 1241 be sent to the 14th Order, as amendments
needed to be made to provide further clarification.
DISCUSSION: Senator Lent requested Senator Shippy to provide specific issues the legislation
would address. Senator Shippy said this topic was currently not a widespread
issue in Idaho, as the legislation was proactive.
TESTIMONY: The following spoke in opposition to S 1241:
• Dr. Jeff Rosenthal, Veterinarian and Chief Executive Officer, Idaho Humane
Society.
• Jonathan Wheatley, Deputy Director, Association of Idaho Cities.
The reasons offered to oppose S 1241 included broadness in language and
the restrictive power it had over local animal ordinances that had become
commonplace. The testifiers noted they weren't entirely against S 1241, however,
significant amendments and further discussions with stakeholders needed to be
made.
DISCUSSION: Senator Semmelroth asked Dr. Rosenthal to provide a real world example of the
legislation as it was presented. Dr. Rosenthal stated Boise had a four animal pet
limit law. If the legislation were to pass as it were originally presented, an individual
could house dozens of sled dogs in Boise. Dr. Rosenthal noted that this topic
could be addressed locally and illustrated how local governments have changed
off-leash dog ordinances. He added that S 1241 would precede certain local
ordinances that had been in existence for well over a hundred years. Senator
Kohl asked if Dr. Rosenthal had any amending language in mind for S 1241. Dr.
Rosenthal suggested specific legislation be created that addressed specific issues,
such as a carriage horse bill that addressed carriage horse venue concerns.
Senator Kohl asked Mr. Wheatley if he had any amendment priority topics and
suggestions. Mr. Wheatley replied that a specific issue needed to be addressed
first before a particular focus and solution could be made.
TESTIMONY: The following spoke in favor of S 1241:
• Dr. Natasha Laughter, Veterinarian.
• Dexton Lake, Idaho Farm Bureau.
• Brandy Reynolds, Equine industry.
• Matthew Van Tuyl, junior at Parma High School.
• Nalani Van Tuyl, FFA member and freshman at Parma High School.
• Nickolena Van Tuyl, farmer and past President, Carriage Operators of North
America.
• Dan Waugh, Idaho Recreation Council.
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Tuesday, February 10, 2026—Minutes—Page 2

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• Jack Hurty, Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association.
• Tommy Elledge.
The reasons given to support S 1241 included the legislation would provide a
statutory definition of working animals, protect working animals in agriculture,
recreation, and entertainment, preserve Idaho heritage, and support Idaho farmers,
recreationalists, and future agricultural leaders. Many of the testifiers acknowledged
that amendments could be made to address city and county concerns, while still
honoring the intent of S 1241.
In addition, Brandy Reynolds, Matthew Van Tuyl, Nalani Van Tuyl, Nickolena
Van Tuyl, and Tommy Elledge referred to S 1241 as "Leilani's law", after Mrs.
Genevieve "Leilani" Gibbons, who was a major proponent for the protection of
working animals (See Attachment 1).
DISCUSSION: Senator Lent thanked the youth testifiers for coming before the Committee. He
asked Ms. Nalani Van Tuyl for her advice regarding reconciling the conflict between
S 1241 and local ordinances. Ms. Van Tuyl replied that some conflicts could be
resolved by the proposed amendments. In addition, conflict-resolution coordination
with local officials was important.
Senator Lakey asked if Ms. Nickolena Van Tuyl was supportive of further
amendments that recognized current local laws. Ms. Van Tuyl answered
affirmatively, but emphasized the need to pass base legislation to preemptively
protect the rights of working animals. Senator VanOrden asked if there was an
incident that sparked this legislation. Ms. Van Tuyl explained several issues
occurred in New York, California, Oregon, and Texas. She emphasized that
creating a preemptive bill provided protection for working animals before issues
were to occur in Idaho. Senator VanOrden queried if there was a local incident
that occurred. Mr. Van Tuyl stated current issues were only elsewhere. Chairman
Nichols asked if Ms. Van Tuyl was referring to Petition 28 in Oregon, which would
ban hunting, fishing, and the slaughtering of livestock. Ms. Van Tuyl answered
affirmatively. Senator Lakey mentioned some concerns about individuals keeping
excessive numbers of animals in small spaces and asked if she agreed the
legislation could unintentionally protect those that abuse the system. Ms. Van Tuyl
agreed with Senator Lakey's concern, and explained that local ordinances were put
in place for a reason. She suggested existing local ordinances could continue to
have authority in conjunction with S 1241.
Senator Kohl asked Mr. Hurty if there were examples of neighboring states that
restricted the right to utilize working animals for outfitters and guides. He further
asked if S 1241 would secure that right in Idaho. Mr. Hurty mentioned that in
2014, Salt Lake City restricted the use of horse-drawn carriages, which was a form
of outfitting and guiding. Mr. Hurty affirmed that this legislation would protect the
rights of his industry and was a proactive approach.
MOTION: Senator Kohl motioned to send S 1241 to the 14th Order of Business for possible
amendment. Senator Taylor seconded the motion.
DISCUSSION: Senator Kohl stated S 1241's proactivity was refreshing. He stressed this
conversation needed to happen this session due to the evidence from neighboring
states and the future challenges Idaho will face.
Senator Lakey supported the motion and appreciated the preventative approach.
Standards could be clarified, preserving both appropriate local ordinances and the
dynamic between urban and rural areas.
VOICE VOTE: The motion carried by voice vote.
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Tuesday, February 10, 2026—Minutes—Page 3

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HJM 10 ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS - States findings of the Legislature and urges
federal lawmakers to prohibit inclusion of artificial sweeteners in school meal
programs. Senator Anthon explained HJM 10 urged Congress and the United
States Department of Agriculture to prohibit artificial sweeteners in federally funded
school meal programs. Artificial sweeteners were zero calorie chemicals, which
confused proper regulation of the body. Real sugar was easier for a child's body to
process than artificial sweeteners. He described artificial sweeteners were many
times sweeter than natural sugar, which discouraged healthy eating habits and
contributed to a lifestyle of disease and obesity. Senator Anthon noted the growing
research that showed some artificial sweeteners affected gut health in children. He
discussed how he grew up on a sugarbeet farm and explained Idaho's contribution
to sugarbeet production. Not only was sugar an important food, but sugar was an
important commodity for the state economy. Senator Anthon requested HJM 10
be sent to the floor with a do pass recommendation.
TESTIMONY: The following spoke in favor of HJM 10:
• Samantha Parrott, Executive Director, Snake River SugarBeet Growers
Association.
• Galon Lee, fourth generation farmer and Board Member, Amalgamated Sugar.
The reasons given to support HJM 10 included prioritizing real sugar and following
a national trend. In addition, Mr. Lee explained that sugar had other characteristics
apart from being a sweetener; sugar also served as a preservative, bulking agent,
and anti-caking agent.
Ms. Kendal Shaber, nutritionist, testified in opposition to HJM 10, and stated that
encouraging the replacement of artificial sweeteners with sugar conflicted with
updated dietary guidelines that called for reducing added sugar and ultra-processed
foods in school meals. She stated 20 percent of children aged 6–11 were obese and
nearly one in three teens had pre-diabetes, as added sugar contributed to obesity
and food addiction. Ms. Shaber urged the Committee to reject the memorial and
instead support funding to meet the updated dietary guidelines for school lunches.
MOTION: Senator Blaylock moved to send HJM 10 to the floor with a do pass
recommendation. Senator VanOrden seconded the motion. The motion carried
by voice vote.
ADJOURNED: There being no further business at this time, Chairman Nichols adjourned the
meeting at 9:24 a.m.
___________________________ ___________________________
Senator Nichols Rachel Verrette
Chair Secretary
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Tuesday, February 10, 2026—Minutes—Page 4

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Idaho
Department of
Agriculture
Base Review
Morgan Poloni, Budget &
Policy Analyst
February 4, 2026
February 5, 2026
Attachment 1

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Organizational Structure
Five-year Averages
Authorized FTP: 220.90
Filled FTP Percentage: 91.82%
Personnel Cost Appropriated: $29,229,180
Percent of PC Spent on PC: 82.66%
231.00 FTP
12.00 Vacant
as of 11/26/2025

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Consolidated
Fund Analysis

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Five-Year Review

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2025 Budget Enhancements
Ongoing Enhancement Name Type Amount
Veterinary Medical Officer (1.00 FTP) Enhancement $180,300
Dairy Inspectors (2.00 FTP) Enhancement $206,600
Seed Lab Personnel (1.0 FTP) Enhancement $75,800
Idaho Preferred Operating Enhancement Enhancement $67,500
International Trade Support with Japan Enhancement $60,000
CEC for Fruits & Veg. Inspectors Enhancement $94,500
Honey Commission Increase Enhancement $5,700
Quagga Mussel Resources Enhancement $1,569,900
Livestock Depredation, H592 Enhancement $225,000
2% Additional CEC Enhancement $348,300
Total Ongoing Base Change from Enhancements $2,833,600

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2025 Budget Enhancements
Onetime Enhancement Name Type Amount
Veterinary Medical Officer Enhancement $34,700
Dairy Inspectors Enhancement $78,000
Seed Lab Personnel Enhancement $13,000
Storage Building Construction Enhancement $1,500,000
Resilient Food Systems Grant Enhancement $6,184,900
Quagga Mussel Resources Enhancement $5,000,000
Replacement Items Enhancement $1,381,700
Exotic Species Deficiency Warrants Supplemental $1,724,300
Total Onetime Base Change from Enhancements $14,192,300

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2026 Budget Enhancements

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2027 Budget Request & Gov Recommendation
FY 2026 Deficiency
Warrant for Exotic Species
Response: $1,298,600
Ongoing Enhancement Name Type Amount Gov Rec
CEC for Fruits & Veg. Inspectors Enhancement $425,900 Not recommended
Total Ongoing Base Change from Enhancements $425,900
Onetime Enhancement Name Type Amount Gov Rec
Replacement Items Enhancement $621,100 Recommended
OITS Hardware Enhancement $208,800 Recommended
Total Ongoing Base Change from Enhancements $824,600
FY 2026 Supplemental
for Quagga Mussel
Treatment: $3,393,000
Budget Law Exemptions Type Amount Gov Rec
Reappropriation Enhancement -- Recommended
Total Ongoing Base Change from Enhancements --

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FY 2026 3% Gov Holdback

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FY 2027 3% Ongoing Recissions

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Please feel free to contact me with
any questions at 208.334.1288 or
mpoloni @lso.Idaho.gov

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Performance Measures

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The mission of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture is to guarantee that Idaho agricultural products are of high quality,
disease-free, and meet federal and state laws, rules, and regulations. The department protects consumers and producers
from fraud and provides marketing assistance to the industry. There are eight budgeted programs:
1. The Administration Program coordinates the accounting, payroll, legal, and personnel functions;
2. Animal Industries is responsible for veterinary services, range management, dairy laboratory and dairy inspection,
animal laboratory, livestock inspection, egg inspection, and animal waste management (Title 25, IC);
3. Agricultural Resources protects the public health, environment, livestock, and wildlife of the state from possible
adverse effects resulting from the improper use of pesticides (Title 22, IC);
4. Plant Industries includes the plant, fertilizer, and seed laboratories and programs, noxious weeds, the Honey
Commission, and the Invasive Species Program (Titles 22 and 25, IC);
5. Agricultural Inspections includes the Bureau of Shipping Point Inspections, Bureau of Warehouse Control, Retail
Potato Program, Hops Program, Organic Foods Program, and Bureau of Weights and Measures (Titles 37, 69, and
71, IC);
6. The Marketing and Development Program assists Idaho food producers to increase their profitability by enhancing
the marketing opportunities for their products (Chapter 29, Title 49, IC, and Chapter 14, Title 57, IC);
7. The United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services
Program operates in Idaho under a memorandum of understanding with the Idaho State Animal Damage Control
Board (Titles 22, and 25, IC);
8. The Sheep and Goat Health Board provides a comprehensive program involving disease and predator control and
enables the sheep and goat industries to maintain high production standards and economic returns (Title 25, IC).
Idaho Department of Agriculture

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Five-Year Base Snapshot

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FY 2025 Expenditures

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FY 2025 Expenditures – Personnel Costs
55.9% of Total Appropriated Expenditures
A grand total of $28,168,693 was expended on personnel costs. This includes $27,691,311
in appropriated funds shown above and $477,382 from continuously appropriated funds.

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FY 2025 Expenditures – Operating Expenditures
21.9% of Total Expenditures

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FY 2025 Expenditures – Trustee & Benefit Payments
12.8% of Total Expenditures
The Department of Agriculture is the recipient of 54 distinct federal grants and expended $3,397,054 from federal funds for trustee and
benefit payments in FY 2025. Federal agencies from which the Idaho Department of Agriculture received grants included the:
▪ U.S. Department of Agriculture (Agricultural Marking Service, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Cooperative State
Research, Education, and Extension Service, Forest Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service);
▪ U.S. Department of the Interior (BLM, Fish & Wildlife Services);
▪ U.S. Department of the Treasury;
▪ U.S. Environmental Protection Agency;
▪ U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (Food and Drug Administration); and
▪ U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The details of these grants can be reviewed as part of the Federal Fund Inventory for the Idaho Department of Agriculture.
Expenditure FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 FY 2024 FY 2025 % of Total
Misc Payments As Agent $ 4,028,981
$3,397,054
$3,180,830 $2,515,730 $3,589,128 47.50%
Fed Payments To Subgrantes $ 906,847
$3,073,089
$2,892,622 $1,793,483 $2,763,448 52.50%
Non Fed Payments To Subgrantees $50,000 $52,575 --
Total $ 4,985,828 $6,470,143	$6,073,452 $4,309,213 $6,405,151 -
--	-- --

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2021 Budget Enhancements
Ongoing Enhancement 	Type 	Amount
Farm Forward Program 	Enhancement 	$0
Multi-Agency Decisions 	Enhancement 	$200,200
Weights & Measures Inspector 	Enhancement 	$54,300
Fresh Fruit & Veg Inspectors 	Enhancement 	$31,800
Pest Control Specialist 	Enhancement 	$0
2% General Fund Reduction & Exemptions 	Enhancement 	($239,700)
CSI Office Space Move 	Enhancement 	$50,000
Industrial Hemp (H126) 	Supplemental 	$150,000
Total Ongoing Base Change from Enhancements 	$246,600

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2022 Budget Enhancements
Ongoing Enhancement 	Type 	Amount
Office 365 Subscription 	Enhancement 	$97,300
Fresh Fruit & Veg Inspectors 	Enhancement 	$63,300
Animal Lab Technician 	Enhancement 	$55,100
Total Ongoing Base Change from Enhancements 	$215,700
February 5, 2026
Attachment 1

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2024 Budget Enhancements
Ongoing Enhancement 	Type 	Amount
DHR Consolidation 	Enhancement 	($203,700)
Weights and Measures Program Operations 	Enhancement 	$80,000
1% CEC for Fruits & Veg. Inspectors 	Enhancement 	$264,800
Animal Lab Supplies and Software 	Enhancement 	$150,000
Total Ongoing Base Change from Enhancements 	$291,100

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Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
General Fund
Animal Damage Control Fund
Sources: The State Controller shall annually, by August 1 of each year, transfer the sum of $100,000 from
the Fish and Game Fund to the Animal Damage Control Fund (Section 36-112, Idaho Code). The
distribution of excess moneys from the Expendable Big Game Depredation Fund pursuant to Section 36-
115(c), Idaho Code, was eliminated by H230 of 2017.
Uses: Moneys in the fund are subject to appropriation to the State Animal Damage Control Board
established by Section 25-2612A, Idaho Code, for the control of predatory animals and birds. The State
Animal Damage Control Board in using these moneys shall follow Fish and Game Commission direction
on actions regarding predatory animals or birds forwarded by the department by August 1 of each year.
The Fish and Game Commission has traditionally made about half of the revenues available to the animal
control districts for the control of predatory animals and birds and about half to the animal control districts
to be used in conjunction with research projects to best accomplish the protection of upland game and big
game animals from depredation.

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Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Administration and Accounting Services Fund
Sources: Rent receipts, indirect costs receipts from Federal Grants, sale of Idaho Statistical Bulletins, and
assessments of administrative charges for the department on the various special revenue funds
administered by the agency.
Uses: Administrative expenses of the Department of Agriculture, including salary or wages, travel,
supplies, equipment, communication and all other expenses necessary in carrying out the functions and
duties of the department. The Department of Agriculture also provides administrative services to the Wolf
Depredation Control Board.
Facilities Maintenance Fund
Sources: Idaho Department of Agriculture allocations between bureaus, and receipts from the Department
of Health & Welfare for facilities charges. These entities pre-pay anticipated expenses to operate the
facilities at the Health/Ag Complex on Old Penitentiary Road, part of which is rented to the Department of
Health and Welfare.
Uses: This fund is used to pay utilities, janitorial services, and repair and maintenance bills of the
Health/Ag Complex.

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Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Agricultural Inspection Fund
Sources: All moneys received by the Department of Agriculture for any inspection, which the department
by law may be authorized or required to make, except those moneys specifically received for and credited
to another fund or funds, shall be credited to the Agriculture Department Inspection Fund (Section 22-104,
Idaho Code). Includes beekeeper assessment (Section 22-2510, Idaho Code) and livestock market
operators (Section 25-1728, Idaho Code).
Uses: This fund is used for administrative expenses of the department, salaries or wages of the director
and of subordinates and employees, expenses of travel, communication, supplies, equipment, fixed
charges, inspection, and all other necessary expenses of the Department of Agriculture in carrying out its
functions and the duties enjoined on it by law (Section 22-105, 22-2510, and 25-1720 Idaho Code).
Weights and Measures Inspection Fund
Sources: The department is authorized to charge fees for the licensing of weighing and measuring device
to compensate the state for the expense of administering weights and measures laws. The fees are set by
rule and deposited with the State Treasurer to the Weights and Measures Fund, which is established in
Section 71-121, Idaho Code.
Uses: The fees shall be collected to allow the Department of Agriculture to enforce the weights and
measures laws, test weights and measures used in public institutions, inspect and test commercially-used
weights and measures, enforce orders, verify weights and measures of contents of packages, and provide
other services (Sections 71-111 to 71-116, Idaho Code).

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Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Invasive Species Fund
Sources: The Invasive Species Fund receives appropriations as deemed necessary by the Governor and
the Legislature to accomplish the goals of Chapter 19, Title 22, Idaho Code. The main source of funding
is from a boat sticker fee charged to launch in Idaho waters (Section 67-7008A, Idaho Code). The fund
may also receive, at the discretion of the director, moneys from any other lawful source including, without
limitation, interest, insurance settlements, fees for technical services, penalties, fines, gifts, grants,
legacies of money, property, securities or other assets, or any other source, public or private. All interest
or other income accruing from moneys deposited to the fund shall accrue to the fund. Any unexpended
balance left in the fund at the end of any fiscal year shall carry forward without reduction to the following
fiscal year (Section 22-1911, Idaho Code).
Uses: The fund is used to support activities related to the prevention, detection, control, and management
of invasive species in Idaho (Section 22-1911, Idaho Code).

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Agency Fund – Source and Use
Depredation of Livestock and Prevention Fund
Sources: Pursuant to H592 of 2024, the Depredation of Livestock and Prevention Fund is funded by the
General Fund.
Uses: The Depredation of Livestock and Prevention Fund provides compensation to livestock owners and
producers who have experienced livestock loss from depredation by grizzly bears and wolves. The
Department of Agriculture, in consultation with the Department of Fish and Game and Office of Species
Conservation, manages the fund and issues compensation for claims validated by the Office of Species
Conservation. The annual appropriation is $225,000, which includes $150,000 for livestock depredation
and $75,000 for conflict prevention.

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Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Pest Control Deficiency Fund
Sources: This fund receives General Fund appropriations approved to reimburse the actual costs
recorded as deficiency warrants that are approved by the State Board of Examiners (Section 22-2019,
Idaho Code).
Uses: Whenever the cost of suppression and eradication of grasshoppers, crickets, or other pests on
state-owned land or on private rangeland or agricultural land exceeds the funds appropriated or otherwise
available for that purpose, the State Board of Examiners may authorize the issuance of deficiency
warrants against the General Fund for up to $5,000,000 in any one year for such suppression and
eradication. The state becomes liable for those amounts and shall be paid out of appropriations which
shall be made by the Legislature for that purpose.

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Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Sheep and Goat Health
Sources: An annual assessment, not to exceed $0.12 per pound on all wool, in the grease basis, sold
through commercial channels, is levied on all wool produced within Idaho. $0.02 of the assessment is
considered a wolf control assessment pursuant to section 22-5306, Idaho Code. The current assessment
is $0.09 per pound (not found in IDAPA 02.08.01) and is distributed $0.04 for animal health, $0.03 for
animal damage control, and $0.02 for wolf control.
Uses: The objectives of the Sheep and Goat Health Board are to perform all those duties and powers
necessary for the supervision of sheep and goats including: handling, shipping, transporting or moving,
regulation, eradication of all diseases, the making of all rules and regulations, and all other matters
regarding sheep and goats either in the state of Idaho or which may be brought into or shipped from the
state of Idaho (Section 25-128, Idaho Code). A portion of the assessment is dedicated to the Animal
Damage Control (ADC) program.

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Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Commercial Feed and Fertilizer
Sources: Each type of commercial feed except customer-formula feed shall be registered and
accompanied by a non-refundable fee established by the director not to exceed $100 (Section 25-2704,
Idaho Code). Separately identifiable commercial fertilizer must also registered with the Department of
Agriculture and are subject to fees (Section 22-605, Idaho Code). Also, distributors shall register each of
their in-state storage facilities with the department and pay fees (Section 22-608, Idaho Code). Finally,
each soil amendment and plant amendment offered for sale or sold in Idaho is registered annually by a
fee (Section 22-2205, Idaho Code).
Uses: The inspection fee is used to pay the costs of inspection, sampling, and other administrative
expenses (Section 25-2717, Idaho Code). Moneys received from the registration of brands are used to
purchase samples of feeds and fertilizers for testing and analysis, for making or procuring analyses to be
made, and for printing of forms, licenses, and other records (Section 22-620, Idaho Code).

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Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Pesticides
Sources: Every pesticide which is distributed, sold, or offered for sale within Idaho is registered annually
with the Department of Agriculture (Section 22-3402, Idaho Code). Private and professional pesticide
applicators and dealers must obtain a license issued by the Department of Agriculture (Section 22-3404,
Idaho Code).
Uses: The income in this fund is used for administering the Pesticide Law. For the purpose of carrying out
the provisions of this act, the director may enter on any public or private premises at reasonable times in
order to have access for the purpose of observing the use and application of pesticides, inspecting
records that are required to be maintained by this act, chemigation equipment and standards, chemical
use for chemigation, spraying equipment, storage facilities, disposal areas, investigating complaints of
injury, inspection and sampling of land and sampling pesticides being distributed, offered for sale, applied
or to be applied. The department shall conduct, or make provision to conduct, at least 250 annual
chemigation system inspections to assure the effectiveness of the chemigation program in keeping
chemicals out of surface and ground water (Section 22-3414 and 22-3415, Idaho Code).

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Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Livestock Disease Control
Sources: The Division of Animal Industries can recover expenses incurred for disease control as provided
by law (Sections 25-201, 25-207, 25-219, and 25-616, Idaho Code); artificial insemination license a fee of
$25 and $5 for a renewal. All receipts are placed in the Livestock Disease Control Fund (Section 25-807,
Idaho Code); a fee of $0.22 per head is collected by the State Brand Inspector upon cattle, horses, and
mules brand inspected in Idaho and the fee is deposited in the State Treasury in the Livestock Disease
Control and T.B. Indemnity Fund (Section 25-232, Idaho Code); assessment of up to $0.30 per head may
be levied on porcine animals (pigs) sold in the state (Section 25-3404, Idaho Code); and license fee of $10
per head per year is assessed on domestic cervidae producers (Section 25-3708, Idaho Code).
Uses: The moneys in this fund are used to pay for livestock disease control programs and deputy
veterinarians and inspectors’ salaries, travel expenses, cooperating with the U.S. Bureau of Animal
Industry in maintaining laboratories, laboratory equipment expense, for the payment of indemnities for
tubercular cattle slaughtered, and for other disease control activities (Section 25-233, Idaho Code). Funds
collected from the porcine assessment are used for the conduction of swine disease control programs
(Section 25-3406, Idaho Code), while funds collected from cervidae license and assessment are used to
conduct the cervidae program and for cervidae disease control (Section 25-3708, Idaho Code).

-- 31 of 40 --

Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Dairy Inspection
Sources: The Department of Agriculture is authorized to collect a fee from the dairy processors to cover
the cost of the inspection (Section 37-407, Idaho Code); licenses for businesses receiving or purchasing
milk or cream in bulk (Section 37-503, Idaho Code); license are food products resembling dairy products
(Section 37-318, Idaho Code); bulk hauler’s permit (Section 37-412, Idaho Code); tester/grader’s license
(Section 37-511, Idaho Code).
Uses: The money in this fund is used exclusively for inspection services (Section 37-407, Idaho Code).
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Honey Advertising
Sources: An annual tax, $0.05 per hive or colony of bees, is levied upon each colony or hive of bees. The
tax can be increased to not more than $0.10 per hive and decreased to not less than $0.03 per hive by the
beekeepers voting in a referendum. The tax is collected by the Department of Agriculture (Section 22-
2808, Idaho Code).
Uses: The purpose of the Idaho Honey Advertising Commission is to advertise and promote the honey
industry in Idaho, and this fund supports honey related expenditures (Section 22-2802, Idaho Code).

-- 32 of 40 --

Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Egg Inspection
Sources: An annual license fee of $20 is collected from each egg distributor, an annual license fee of $5
from each egg candler, and an assessment not to exceed 4 mills per dozen on eggs (Section 37-1523 and
37-1523A, Idaho Code).
Uses: All moneys collected by the director of the Idaho Department of Agriculture for this fund are used
exclusively for inspection, administration and enforcement of the Egg Products Act (Section 37-1519,
Idaho Code).
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Organic Food Products
Sources: Registration fees, gross organic sales fees, inspection, and mileage fees from program
participants (Section 22-1106, Idaho Code).
Uses: All moneys collected by the director of the Department of Agriculture are used exclusively for the
inspection and administration of the Organic Certification Program through the organic food advisory
council (Section 22-1107, Idaho Code).

-- 33 of 40 --

Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Commercial Fisheries
Sources: The department is authorized to charge a license fee of $25 biennially for commercial
aquaculture facilities (Section 22-4602, Idaho Code). License fees and fines collected under this section
are deposited in the Commercial Fisheries Fund (Section 22-4605, Idaho Code). Any person violating the
provisions of the commercial fish facilities chapter shall be subject to a penalty not to exceed $1,000
(Section 22-4604, Idaho Code).
Uses: The moneys in the Commercial Fisheries Fund are used to pay for facilities inspections, disease
prevention and control, marketing, and research for commercial fisheries (Section 22-4603, Idaho Code).
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Poultry Inspection
Sources: H206 of 2011, the Poultry Environmental Act, created the Poultry Inspection Program and Fund.
This legislation moved the responsibility and oversight of current and future poultry operations from the
Department of Environmental Quality to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA). The funding
source for this program is from a fee established in code of up to $0.03 per square foot of the facility to be
inspected (Section 25-4010, Idaho Code).
Uses: As of 2012, one poultry facility had been established that statute required ISDA inspection. The
agency sees the potential additional facilities as the market grows. Initial FY 2013 funding provided for the
equivalent of one position statewide. The ongoing budget includes $36,000 for salary and benefits, and
$17,500 for travel, space charges, and other operating expenditures for a total of $53,500.

-- 34 of 40 --

Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Industrial Hemp Administration Fund (also known as Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Hemp)
Sources: The industrial hemp development fund shall be credited the revenues derived from fees for
registrations, inspections, and shipping fee reimbursements, and civil penalties collected as authorized by
H0126 of 2021, as well as Section 67-2921, Idaho Code, and the rules promulgated under that section.
Uses: Moneys in the fund shall be used solely for carrying out the provisions of this chapter and the
provisions of Section 22-1705, Idaho Code. Uses include administration fees, inspections, registrations,
and shipping sample costs.

-- 35 of 40 --

Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Invasive Species Deficiency Warrant Fund
Sources: Whenever the director declares an emergency, as provided in Section 25-212, Idaho Code, the
director shall cause the disease to be controlled and eradicated, using such funds as have been
appropriated or may hereafter be made available for such purposes; provided, that whenever the cost of
disease control and eradication exceeds the funds appropriated or otherwise available for that purpose,
the State Board of Examiners may authorize the issuance of deficiency warrants against the General Fund
for up to $5,000,000 in any one year for such disease control and eradication (Section 25-212A, Idaho
Code).
Uses: The director, in executing the provisions as it relates to disease control and eradication, shall have
the authority to cooperate with federal, state, county and municipal agencies and private citizens in
disease control and eradication efforts; provided, that the state funds shall only be used to pay the state's
share of the cost of the disease control and eradication efforts. Disease control and eradication costs may
include costs for inspection, diagnosis of disease, indemnity paid to owners for infected, exposed or
disease susceptible animals purchased and destroyed by order of the director, costs associated with burial
or disposal of animal carcasses, and costs for cleaning and disinfecting of infected premises. Such
moneys as the state shall thus become liable for shall be paid as a part of the expenses of the Department
of Agriculture out of appropriations which shall be made by the Legislature for that purpose. In all
appropriations hereafter made for expenses of the Department of Agriculture, account shall be taken of
and provision made for this item of expense.

-- 36 of 40 --

Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Seminars and Publications Fund
Sources: For the Marketing Division, the agency receives moneys from private industry and a regional
non-profit trade association on a cost-recovery basis. For the Animal Health Division, the agency receives
revenue from the sale of trichomoniasis media test pouches.
Uses: For the Marketing Division, the agency uses funding to sponsor domestic and foreign trade shows
and exhibitions, special product promotions, publications and seminars which are conducted for the
benefit of private companies, agri-food organizations and trade associations. For the Animal Health
Division, the agency uses funding to purchase of trichomoniasis media test pouches.
Quality Assurance Laboratory Services Fund
Sources: Moneys from donations from commodity commissions and laboratory service fees are placed in
the Quality Assurance Laboratory Services Fund (Section 22-109, Idaho Code). The laboratory also
receives a separate General Fund appropriation.
Uses: Moneys are used to pay salaries and operating costs of the Idaho Food Quality Assurance
Laboratory in Twin Falls.

-- 37 of 40 --

Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Rural Economic Develop Integrated Freight Transportation Fund
Sources: H874 of 2006 provided $5,000,000 to the Rural Economic Development and Integrated Freight
Transportation Revolving Loan Fund from the one-time General Fund surplus designated for economic
development projects throughout the state.
Uses: Moneys are to be used for revolving loans to upgrade, expand, rehabilitate, purchase, or modernize
equipment and facilities for short line rail or intermodal freight shipping infrastructure as prescribed
(Sections 49-2901 through 49-2905, Idaho Code). This program was transferred from the Department of
Commerce and Labor to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture beginning in FY 2008.
Agricultural Fees Fund(s) – Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Inspection
Sources: Upon the request of interested parties, the director of Idaho State Department of Agriculture shall
inspect any fruits and vegetables being prepared for shipment. The director is authorized to issue
certificates of inspection and determine fees that are deemed reasonable and adequate to cover the cost
of the services rendered to parties requesting inspection (Sections 22-803 and 22-704).
Uses: The moneys from this fund are used for inspection and administration.

-- 38 of 40 --

Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Revolving Loans Fund
Sources: The director of the Department of Agriculture of the state of Idaho is authorized to make
application to and receive from the Secretary of Agriculture of the United States, the trust assets, either
funds or property, held by the United States as trustee on behalf of the Idaho Rural Rehabilitation
Corporation (Section 57-1402, Idaho Code). Federal funds were allocated to Idaho for rural rehabilitation
purposes (Section 57-1401, Idaho Code).
Uses: The director is authorized to enter into agreements with the Secretary of Agriculture of the United
States upon such terms and conditions and for such periods of time as may be mutually agreeable for
carrying out the purposes of Title I and II of the Bankhead Jones Farm Tenant Act (Section 57-1403, Idaho
Code). The department makes loans and grants to farmers and agribusinesses to support agricultural
development and rural rehabilitation.
Commodity Indemnity Fund
Sources: Every producer shall pay an annual assessment to the department not to exceed 0.2% of the
total value, as determined at the time of first sale of the commodities (Section 69- 257, Idaho Code).
Uses: The Commodity Indemnity Fund shall be used exclusively for purposes of paying claimants in the
event a warehouse or dealer fails and paying necessary expenses of administering the Commodity
Indemnity Fund.

-- 39 of 40 --

Agency Funds – Sources and Uses
Seed Indemnity Fund
Sources: The Seed Indemnity Fund shall consist of assessments remitted pursuant to the provisions of
the Seed Indemnity Fund law (Section 22-5121, Idaho Code). Assessments shall be paid solely by or on
behalf of producers who transfer or deposit for storage a seed crop with a seed buyer.
Uses: The Seed Indemnity Fund shall be used exclusively for paying valid claims and the necessary fees
and expenses of the department in carrying out its responsibilities (Section 22-5120(3), Idaho Code).
Federal Grant Fund
Sources: This fund receives federal money from the United States Department of Agriculture, Department
of Interior, and Environmental Protection Agency.
Uses: Moneys in this fund are used for projects specified by the federal government. Examples include
grants to control noxious weeds, manage Brucellosis in the greater Yellowstone area, control Mormon
cricket and grasshopper outbreaks, educating workers about pesticide application, fund the specialty crop
marketing program, provide for a pilot animal identification program, support the agricultural statistics
program, and provide for emergency management preparedness.
February 5, 2026
Attachment 1

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MINUTES
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
DATE: Tuesday, February 03, 2026
TIME: 8:00 A.M.
PLACE: Room WW53
MEMBERS
PRESENT:
Chairman Nichols, Vice Chairman Zito, Senators Lakey, Lent, VanOrden, Blaylock,
Kohl, Semmelroth, and Taylor
ABSENT/
EXCUSED:
None
NOTE: The sign-in sheet, testimonies and other related materials will be retained with
the minutes in the committee's office until the end of the session and will then be
located on file with the minutes in the Legislative Services Library.
CONVENED: Chairman Nichols called the meeting of the Senate Agricultural Affairs Committee
(Committee) to order at 8:00 a.m.
MINUTES
APPROVAL:
Senator VanOrden moved to approve the Minutes of January 27, 2026. Senator
Taylor seconded the motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
PASSED THE
GAVEL:
Chairman Nichols passed the gavel to Vice Chairman Zito.
DOCKET NO.
02-0601-2501
Rules Governing the Production and Distribution of Seed (ZBR Chapter
Rewrite) - Pending Rule. Ms. Andrea Thompson, Administrator of the Plant
Industries Division for the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), explained
this rule established requirements for Pure Seed and Germination Standards. An
Incorporation by Reference (IBR) standard for germination was added. Noxious
and export weed seeds of concern were updated. Rules were removed for
Rapeseed and Bluegrass. (See Attachment 1).
DISCUSSION: Senator Lakey inquired about the need to utilize the IBR standards. Ms.
Thompson explained standards were necessary to ensure seed quality met
various international export requirements. Senator Lakey asked why the IBR did
not include a date. Ms. Thompson stated the IBR was not dated due to it being a
rolling publication; updates were constantly made to keep up with industry export
changes. Mr. Lloyd Knight, Deputy Director for the ISDA, added that the IBR
referred to seed standards. He stated the ISDA served the export industry, where
standards changed frequently. Changes occurred through collaboration among the
industry, states, and researchers to respond to evolving market demands and
concerns, so the agency remained flexible to align with national and international
export requirements.
DOCKET NO.
02-0602-2501
Rules Governing Registrations and Licenses - Pending Rule. Ms. Thompson
Administrator of the Plant Industries Division for the Idaho State Department of
Agriculture (ISDA), explained this was an annual Incorporated by Reference (IBR)
Update. In addition, three subchapters were updated. The updates included
refinements to definitions, technical terms, and other standards necessary for state
statute regulation.
DOCKET NO.
02-0606-2501
Rules Governing the Planting of Beans - Pending Rule. Ms. Thompson
Administrator of the Plant Industries Division for the Idaho State Department of
Agriculture (ISDA), stated the Idaho Bean Commission requested an update to
the rule for clarification purposes. The updates clarified planting requirements for
edible harvest purposes and confirmed that positive disease detections would
be released upon confirmation.

-- 1 of 3 --

DOCKET NO.
02-0609-2502
Rules Governing Invasive Species and Noxious Weeds - Adoption of
Temporary Rule. Ms. Thompson Administrator of the Plant Industries Division for
the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), explained the rule removed the
previous prohibition of watercraft from the treatment area for quagga mussel on
the Snake River from Hansen Bridge to Pillar Falls. Second, golden mussels were
added to the Emergency Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) Invasive Species list.
The addition of golden mussels to the EDRR list ensured adequate legal authority
for prevention and response efforts in Idaho.
DISCUSSION: Senator Kohl referred to the quagga mussel outbreak that had occurred over the
past few years and asked if the rule was related to this year. Ms. Thompson
deferred to Mr. Lloyd Knight. Mr. Lloyd Knight, Deputy Director of the ISDA,
explained that during the past three years of conducting treatments in the Snake
River, a previous temporary rule was enacted for the immediate closure of access.
Docket No. 02-0609-2502 proposed reopening limited access to the Snake River
while maintaining restrictions in areas still under quarantine.
DOCKET NO.
02-0609-2503
Rules Governing Invasive Species and Noxious Weeds - Pending Rule. Ms.
Thompson Administrator of the Plant Industries Division for the Idaho State
Department of Agriculture (ISDA), explained this Docket in conjunction with Docket
No. 02-0609-2502.
PASSED THE
GAVEL:
Vice Chairman Zito passed the gavel back to Chairman Nichols.
PRESENTATION: Norway Rat Presentation. Mr. Lloyd Knight, Deputy Director of the ISDA,
explored the various invasive and agricultural pests in Idaho and ISDA's control
options under the Plant Pest Act and the Invasive Species Act. The Plant Pest Act
gave the department broad authority, including use of deficiency warrants, to control
pests injurious to agriculture such as the Japanese beetle. Activities including
statewide surveys, quarantines, treatments, and reimbursement programs for
landowners were discussed. The Japanese beetle was managed as a quarantine
pest due to its risk to crops and agricultural exports, with active infestations currently
addressed in areas including Boise, Caldwell, and Pocatello. Under the Invasive
Species Act, the department was authorized to detect, respond to, and treat invasive
species such as quagga and zebra mussels, with golden mussel proposed for
inclusion, supported by state, federal, and deficiency-warrant funding. Knight also
noted the department had capabilities such as public information submissions and
outreach programs for Idahoans. Some species such as voles fell outside existing
regulatory authority, and counties may address localized issues through abatement
districts. Rat treatment types were discussed, as sanitation and exclusion proved to
be preventative and the most effective treatment of rats. (See Attachment 2).
DISCUSSION: Senator Lakey asked what opportunities individuals had to communicate with the
ISDA on eradication efforts. Mr. Knight noted that sometimes infestations spread
onto federal lands, which they then coordinated with federal agencies. When
infestations spread to private property, the ISDA worked with landowners to limit
infestation impacts. The Department conducted seasonal scouting and encouraged
early reporting in counties with recurring infestations. Senator Lakey asked how
federal agencies' response to pest infestations could be improved. Mr. Knight
responded that the Department maintained ongoing planning and coordination with
federal agencies and recognized that federal responses varied due to funding,
legal constraints, and planning requirements. Senator Semmelroth asked how
Idahoans could contribute to the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data
collection process. Mr. Knight said the ISDA could create a quick, effective survey
that was simple and cost effective.
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Tuesday, February 03, 2026—Minutes—Page 2

-- 2 of 3 --

PRESENTATION: The Financial Condition of Idaho Agriculture. Mr. Brett Wilder, Assistant
Professor and Area Extension Educator for the College of Agricultural and Life
Sciences at University of Idaho, illustrated the financial condition of Idaho's
agriculture. 2025 was a record year with cash receipts reaching $12.1 billion. This
was largely driven by livestock, while the crop sector faced significant financial
stress. Mr. Wilder explained Idaho's exports remained critical. He discussed
various assistance payment data and covered several trends within Idaho's
agricultural industry, which highlighted continued pressure and uncertainty for
farmers. (See Attachment 3).
DISCUSSION: Senator Kohl noted the recent struggle sugarbeet farmers faced and asked how
the federal government could provide relief for local growers. Mr. Wilder explained
regulation management was key. Senator Kohl asked whether there was a lag
between supply and demand, and if there was a way to improve feedback and
responsiveness, as well as identify potential alternative uses for sugar production.
Mr. Wilder stated that global oversupply of crops was a significant issue and
reducing domestic production alone would not resolve it, given producers' financial
obligations. He noted that efforts were being made to find alternative uses for crops.
Senator Lent asked about the likelihood of Farmer Bridge Assistance payments
occurring and the potential market impacts of circulating that level of funding into
the agricultural system. Mr. Wilder explained the payments were largely already
priced into the market and the funding was expected to be used primarily to cover
farmers' existing financial obligations. These payments were insufficient to resolve
underlying structural issues in agricultural production.
ADJOURNED: There being no further business at this time, Chairman Nichols adjourned the
meeting at 9:17 a.m.
___________________________ ___________________________
Senator Nichols Rachel Verrette
Chair Secretary
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Tuesday, February 03, 2026—Minutes—Page 3

-- 3 of 3 --

MINUTES
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
DATE: Thursday, January 29, 2026
TIME: 8:00 A.M.
PLACE: Room WW53
MEMBERS
PRESENT:
Chairman Nichols, Vice Chairman Zito, Senators Lakey, Lent, VanOrden, Blaylock,
Kohl, Semmelroth, and Taylor
ABSENT/
EXCUSED:
None
NOTE: The sign-in sheet, testimonies and other related materials will be retained with
the minutes in the committee's office until the end of the session and will then be
located on file with the minutes in the Legislative Services Library.
CONVENED: Chairman Nichols called the meeting of the Senate Agricultural Affairs Committee
(Committee) to order at 8:00 a.m.
MINUTES
APPROVAL:
Senator Blaylock moved to approve the Minutes of January 22, 2026. Vice
Chairman Zito seconded the motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
RS 33086 Relating to the Protection of Working Animals. Senator Shippy read through
the entirety of the RS.
DISCUSSION: Vice Chairman Zito inquired if rodeo animals were protected under RS 33086.
Senator Shippy affirmed her statement. Senator Lakey asked if the term "service"
included animals such as guide dogs. Senator Shippy answered affirmatively.
MOTION: Senator Lakey moved to send RS 33086 to print. Senator Blaylock seconded the
motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
RS 32888 Relating to the Idaho Potato Commission. Senator Blaylock explained this
was a part of the Idaho Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Interim
Committee efforts to update, edit, or remove obsolete regulations. The DOGE
Committee instructed agencies to provide revisions which updated Idaho Code.
This legislation removed programs that weren't currently applicable.
MOTION: Senator Lakey moved to send RS 32888 to print. Senator Taylor seconded the
motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
RS 32886 Relating to the Idaho OnePlan. Senator Blaylock stated RS 32886 enabled the
removal of the IdahoOne Plan program from Idaho Code.
MOTION: Senator Lakey moved to send RS 32886 to print. Senator Taylor seconded the
motion. The motion carried by voice vote.
PASSED THE
GAVEL:
Chairman Nichols passed the gavel to Vice Chairman Zito.
DOCKET NO.
02-0701-2501
Rules of the Idaho Hop Growers' Commission (ZBR Chapter Repeal) -
Pending Rule. Mr. Lloyd Knight, Deputy Director of the Idaho State Department
of Agriculture (ISDA), explained the ISDA wished to repeal the chapter. (See
Attachment 1).
DOCKET NO.
02-0108-2401
Rules Governing Grizzly Bear and Wolf Depredation - Temporary Rule. Mr.
Lloyd Knight, Deputy Director of the ISDA, explained the rule outlined the process
through which livestock owners could receive depredation reimbursement in the
2024 fiscal year.

-- 1 of 3 --

DOCKET NO.
02-0108-2501
Rules Governing Grizzly Bear and Wolf Depredation (New Chapter) - Pending
Rule. Mr. Lloyd Knight, Deputy Director of the ISDA, explained rule amendments
were consistent with authorizing statute as amended by the Idaho Legislature in H
592 in the 2024 session, and again by H 82 in the 2025 session. Further clarification
was made regarding the depredation reimbursement process and protocols.
DISCUSSION: Senator Lakey asked if the language regarding the amount of compensation that
was applicable to veterinary services was consistent with statute. Mr. Knight
explained the statute did not provide a definitive amount of compensation, however,
they did work with stakeholders to find a viable amount of compensation for injured
livestock. Chairman Nichols asked to what extent this topic was influenced by the
federal government. Mr. Knight stated there was a federal reimbursement process
which provided guidance for the State, however the rule was consistent with and
tailored to Idaho Code.
TESTIMONY: Ms. Megan Smith, Program Director for Living with Wolves, stated her support for
the proposed rule. She believed H 592 and Docket No. 02-0108-2501 represented
a meaningful step forward in supporting Idaho producers who experience the
hardship of loss associated with predation, while also providing tools and resources
to work proactively with producers to prevent depredation through conflict mitigation.
(See Attachment 2).
Mr. Jeff Abrams, Wildlife Program Associate at the Idaho Conservation League,
was also in support of the proposed rule and encouraged the state to increase the
compensation amount for depredated livestock.
DOCKET NO.
02-0420-2501
Rules Governing Brucellosis (ZBR Chapter Rewrite) - Pending Rule. Dr. Scott
Leibsle, Veterinarian and Administrator of the Animal Industries Division for the
ISDA, defined Brucellosis and explained the Idaho Brucellosis Program (Program).
He explained the Program included Designated Surveillance Areas (DSA), which
required increased disease surveillance for resident and grazing cattle herds.
He emphasized the federal government largely determined how Brucellosis was
managed. Dr. Leibsle provided vaccination and testing data. The rule had no
regulatory changes, but simply language reorganization and clarification. (See
Attachment 3).
DISCUSSION: Senator Semmelroth asked if the federal government conducted Brucellosis tests
within the DSAs, and if not, why. Dr. Leibsle answered no, perhaps due to cost
concerns. Senator Lakey asked if the federal government could enact an effective
Brucellosis vaccination program. Dr. Leibsle clarified the RB-51 Brucellosis
vaccination was not intended to prevent infection, but to prevent the animal from
aborting their pregnancy. The vaccination gave the ISDA additional time to conduct
tests. Dr. Leibsle stated it would likely be cost-ineffective and problematic for the
federal government to enact such a program. Senator Lakey asked if there were
any effort being made to make a preventative Brucellosis vaccine. Dr. Leibsle
noted the efficacy for developing a vaccine for a bacteria was problematic. He
explained they were only recently able to conduct research on Brucellosis due to
federal restrictions. In addition, Brucellosis was relevant primarily in three states
and there was a lack of funding.
Senator Blaylock inquired as to why prior notification was not required in an
emergency situation to enter and inspect a premises. Dr. Leibsle noted they
relocated language that was already used in the Rule and that the ISDA would
make every effort to notify and work with cattle producers so they would not be
inconvenienced.
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Thursday, January 29, 2026—Minutes—Page 2

-- 2 of 3 --

DOCKET NO.
02-0424-2501
Rules Governing Tuberculosis (ZBR Chapter Rewrite) - Pending Rule. Dr.
Scott Leibsle, Veterinarian and Administrator of the Animal Industries Division
for the ISDA, defined Tuberculosis and explained the Tuberculosis Program. Dr.
Leibsle provided test results from the Tuberculosis Program. Dr. Leibsle explained
that none of the proposed changes to the Tuberculosis rule would impact or change
the regulatory scope of the program. Clarifications were made and unnecessary
requirements were eliminated.
DISCUSSION: Chairman Nichols asked which states were currently affected by Tuberculosis. Dr.
Leibsle responded Tuberculosis was only endemic in Michigan due to their deer
population. Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona were affected. Minnesota, South
Dakota, and Colorado contained traces in standalone herds.
DOCKET NO.
02-0426-2501
Rules Governing the Public Exchange of Livestock (ZBR Chapter Rewrite) -
Pending Rule. Dr. Scott Leibsle, Veterinarian and Administrator of the Animal
Industries Division for the ISDA, gave a brief summary of the Idaho Public Livestock
Market, which was composed of auction yards, buying stations, and trader lots.
Recent negotiated rulemaking made minor efficiency updates, which included
requiring buying stations and trader lots to notify the state they were still operating,
with no fees involved. Daily digital livestock sale reports were submitted in lieu of
physical paper releases for each animal sold.
DISCUSSION: Senator Lakey asked if the digital reports were a part of the negotiated rulemaking
discussion. Dr. Leibsle answered affirmatively. Senator Lakey asked what
occurred if trader lots and buying stations missed their notification deadline. Dr.
Leibsle explained they had a successful informal process of contacting the trader
lot or buying station, rather than immediate permit suspension.
PASSED THE
GAVEL:
Vice Chairman Zito passed the gavel back to Chairman Nichols.
ADJOURNED: There being no further business at this time, Chairman Nichols adjourned the
meeting at 9:00 a.m.
___________________________ ___________________________
Senator Nichols Rachel Verrette
Chair Secretary
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Thursday, January 29, 2026—Minutes—Page 3

-- 3 of 3 --

MINUTES
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
DATE: Tuesday, January 27, 2026
TIME: 8:00 A.M.
PLACE: Room WW53
MEMBERS
PRESENT:
Chairman Nichols, Vice Chairman Zito, Senators Lent, VanOrden, Blaylock, Kohl,
Semmelroth, and Taylor
ABSENT/
EXCUSED:
Senator Lakey
NOTE: The sign-in sheet, testimonies and other related materials will be retained with
the minutes in the committee's office until the end of the session and will then be
located on file with the minutes in the Legislative Services Library.
CONVENED: Chairman Nichols called the meeting of the Senate Agricultural Affairs Committee
(Committee) to order at 8:00 a.m.
INTRODUCTION:Ms. Rachael Bickerton, Director of Government and External Relations, College
of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Idaho (U of I), introduced
the Twenty-fourth Annual U of I Agricultural Economics Public Policy Tour. She
introduced each student and stated their home town and major. (See Attachment 1).
PASSED THE
GAVEL:
Chairman Nichols passed the gavel to Vice Chairman Zito.
DOCKET NO.
02-0205-2501
Rules Governing Stone Fruit Grades (ZBR Chapter Rewrite) - Pending Rule.
Mr. Jared Stuart, Administrator of the Agriculture Inspections Division for the Idaho
State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), stated amendments removed obsolete
grade standard language and duplicative language, as well as made clarifications.
The resulting rule was consistent with industry practices. (See Attachment 2).
DOCKET NO.
02-0207-2501
Rules Governing Bulk Permits and Retail Sale of Potatoes (ZBR Chapter
Rewrite) - Pending Rule. Mr. Jared Stuart, Administrator of the Agriculture
Inspections Division for the ISDA, explained the Federal Marketing Order Citation
was updated, language was clarified, and unnecessary language was removed.
DOCKET NO.
02-0214-2501
Rules for Weights and Measures (ZBR Chapter Rewrite) - Pending Rule. Mr.
Jared Stuart, Administrator of the Agriculture Inspections Division for the ISDA,
stated the rule's Incorporation by Reference (IBR) citation was updated to its most
recent publication. Duplicative language that was already referenced in the IBR
handbook was removed. Clarifications were also made to the rule.
DISCUSSION: Senator Taylor wanted clarification as to where the removed definitions were
located. Mr. Slabaugh stated the definitions were located within the statute.
DOCKET NO.
02-0303-2501
Rules Governing Pesticide and Chemigation Use and Application - Pending
Rule. Mr. Brian Slabaugh, Administrator of the Division of Agricultural Resources
for the ISDA, gave a brief summary of the rule's background. Changes included
five-year license terms, separating new license categories for potato cellar
and wood preservation licenses, adding a new category for applicators using
aerial unmanned drones, and lengthening the sunset provisions on commercial
apprentices. (See Attachment 3).

-- 1 of 2 --

DOCKET NO.
02-0633-2501
Organic Food Products Rules - Pending Rule. Mr. Jared Stuart, Administrator
of the Agriculture Inspections Division for the ISDA, explained the IBR citation
was updated to its most recent publication. The rule amended the application
period for organic certification to better align with crop production years. The
amendments would also assist the agency in better managing certification workload
for customers.
NOTE: Vice Chairman Zito noted the Committee would vote on all of the rules following
the fifth Committee meeting.
PASSED THE
GAVEL:
Vice Chairman Zito passed the gavel back to Chairman Nichols.
ADJOURNED: There being no further business at this time, Chairman Nichols adjourned the
meeting at 8:21 a.m.
___________________________ ___________________________
Senator Nichols Rachel Verrette
Chair Secretary
SENATE AGRICULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Tuesday, January 27, 2026—Minutes—Page 2

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REGENERATIVE
AGRICULTURE
NATHAN GARNER
GARNER FARMS
DECLO, IDAHO
January 22, 2026
Attachment 1

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REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE
• IS A FARMING APPROACH THAT FOCUSES ON RESTORING AND ENHANCING THE
HEALTH OF THE SOIL.
• IT GOES BEYOND SUSTAINABILITY BY AIMING TO REGENERATE DEGRADED LAND,
IMPROVE BIODIVERSITY, AND STRENGTHEN THE RESILIENCE OF OUR FARMING
SYSTEMS.
1. MINIMIZE SOIL DISTURBANCE
2. KEEP THE SOIL SURFACE COVERED
3. INCREASE PLANT DIVERSITY
4. MAINTAIN A LIVING ROOT
5. INTEGRATE LIVESTOCK INTO THE CROPPING SYSTEM

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1. MINIMIZE SOIL DISTURBANCE
2. KEEP THE SOIL SURFACE COVERED

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3. INCREASE PLANT DIVERSITY
4. MAINTAIN A LIVING ROOT

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5. INTEGRATE LIVESTOCK INTO THE CROPPING SYSTEM.

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Nonfarm
Grassland
30+ Years of
Conventional Tillage

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CONSIDERATIONS
• COVER CROPS USE MORE
WATER
• THEY ARE NOT CHEAP
• NO TILL AND STRIP TILL
PRACTICES ARE RELIANT ON
PRECISION EQUIPMENT , GMO
AND ROUNDUP
TECHNOLOGIES
• IN 2026-WE WILL CUT OUR
SYNTHETIC FERTILIZER USAGE BY
25%

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THANK YOU!
January 22, 2026
Attachment 1

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