This Week in Conservation from the Statehouse

Idahoans have let policymakers know that we value our state parks. But there are other conservation issues that you should also be aware of. Keep reading!

State Parks
Thanks in part to you, Governor Otter has backed away from eliminating the Department of Parks and Recreation, and the state is committed to keeping all our state parks open! Check out our park system and make your plans to visit one soon!

Water Quality
After two years of budget cuts and holdbacks, one of the most fundamental functions of the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality has been eliminated–water quality monitoring. On Wednesday, DEQ proposed to suspend all water quality monitoring for another year. This is troubling news, given that water touches the lives of Idahoans every day and should be protected. This move will also likely cost Idahoans more money in the long term.

Grazing
Hoping to resolve ongoing conflicts between ranchers and conservation groups, legislators passed rules governing grazing leases on state land. These rules add new opportunities for leases on state lands, such as conservation and recreation. Time will tell if these rules are enough to end the conflicts.

Dairies
The Idaho Supreme Court ruled this week that Gooding County can enact protective ordinances pertaining to large dairies in the county. Following this ruling, the Idaho Dairy Association will likely push for legislation to prevent local governments from approving tighter restrictions on large dairy operations. I agree with the Times News editorial and think counties should be able to take action to protect the air, water and health of their citizens.