As it commonly is with water projects in the Gem State, money is being dedicated at a constant basis on projects focusing in the short- and long-term future. Idaho Water Resource Board chairman Jeff Raybould presented an extensive review of how state funding has targeted specific projects across the state’s aquifers, streams and rivers.

At the moment, most commercial sales of wool pellets are to organic gardeners and hobbyists. However, those in the young industry are hoping the product will see more widespread application in agriculture, especially as word continues to get out about its advantages and more research continues to support its efficacy.

On June 16, Gov. Brad Little and Idaho Water Resource Board (IWRB) Chairman Jeff Raybould visited American Falls Dam and the Highline Canal south of Buhl to highlight two major projects funded through the state’s Modernizing Water Infrastructure grant.

In 2024, a new law added tributary basins outside the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer to groundwater rights management. Two producers share their perspectives on the impact of this change.

A negotiated management plan that has helped resolve a long-standing conflict between groundwater and surface water users in the Wood River Basin has been extended for three more years, a topic discussed in detail during the Idaho Water Users Association annual convention in January.

“I’m getting fatigued on the problem. I want to focus on solutions,” says Jake Stander, a fifth-generation grower near Blackfoot.

Mathew Weaver was appointed by Gov. Brad Little as the new director of the Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) last September. Ag Proud – Idaho’s Cassidy Woolsey caught up with Weaver to learn more about him, his priorities as director and other topics important for water users in the state of Idaho.

There is frustration statewide that in such a wet year there are water curtailments called. It’s also understandable that when water is at issue, it will be controversial. Here's a look at the methodology used to make the water calls.