AGP Executive Report

Idaho Water & Infrastructure: DEQ approved a $2 million low-interest drinking water construction loan for Camp Fire Inland Northwest in Kootenai County, funding a pump station, backup generator, water system upgrades, and reservoir rehabilitation. Wildfire Risk: Federal outlooks warn the high-risk wildfire period is arriving early across much of the West, including the Inland Northwest and northern Idaho panhandle, driven by above-normal temperatures, low rainfall, and weak snowpack. Mining & Public Lands: A federal court cleared the path for Idaho’s Stibnite gold project to move forward after climate groups sought an injunction, a major win tied to antimony supply for national defense. Critical Minerals & Economy: Sunshine Silver Mining & Refining closed a $270 million IPO aimed at restarting the historic Sunshine Mine in Idaho’s Silver Valley, targeting large-scale silver production and expansion into critical minerals. Climate Policy Fight: A Pew survey finds most Americans say extreme weather is both more frequent and more severe, with sharp partisan splits over whether human activity is the cause. Rights of Nature Backlash: A new report says the rights of nature movement is facing bans and pushback, including state-level restrictions that include Idaho. Dark Skies: Colorado is expanding dark-sky tourism links, noting Idaho’s large dark-sky reserve as a regional draw.

Wildfire Outlook: The National Interagency Fire Center says the high-risk period for big Western wildfires is arriving early, with above-normal significant fire potential forecast for June across the inland Northwest and northern Idaho panhandle, and then spreading in July and August. Mining & Federal Courts: A U.S. District Court in Idaho cleared the way for construction to proceed on the Stibnite Gold Project after climate groups sought an injunction, a major win for Perpetua Resources and the Pentagon’s interest in antimony. Radioactive Waste: A judge permanently barred a Michigan landfill from accepting multiple categories of radioactive waste, while Colorado moved ahead with landfill-grant funding to meet air-emissions rules. Water & Public Safety: BLM announced five people will pay $25,000 in restitution after shooting and heavily damaging a pumphouse on BLM-managed land in Payette County, disrupting critical water infrastructure for ranchers. Idaho Recreation & Fishing: Idaho hunter permit applications for fall controlled hunts are due June 5, and a tip highlights how mountain streams can offer quieter trout fishing. Northern Lights: NOAA upgraded aurora odds for parts of the northern U.S., including northern Idaho, with a stronger display possible Thursday night into Friday.

Mining & Water Quality: Idaho DEQ approved a cyanidation permit modification for Perpetua Resources’ Stibnite Gold Project in Valley County, moving Phase II of the cyanide facility forward near the historic Stibnite Mining District. Public Lands & Accountability: Five people were ordered to pay $25,000 total in restitution after destroying a BLM pumphouse on grazing land in Payette County, disrupting water infrastructure for ranchers. Wildfire Trends: A Boise State–led study finds fewer wildfires in the West since 1992, but more acres burned, with climate-driven fire growth outweighing declines in small ignitions. Drought & Agriculture: With severe drought gripping parts of the Mountain West, experts say water savings may hinge more on changing farm water use than on homeowners cutting back alone. Idaho Water Planning: USDA designated four Idaho counties as primary natural disaster areas for severe drought, making producers in Blaine, Minidoka, Oneida and Power eligible for emergency FSA loans. Energy Demand Watch: Avista filed plans for a “large load” customer in Washington territory seeking up to 500 MW by 2032, raising questions about future power and transmission needs. Local Conservation Education: Clearwater County hosted its 63rd annual sixth-grade forestry tour, pairing hands-on forest learning with visits to active logging operations.

Snake River Salmon: Oregon closed the spring chinook fishery on the Snake River in Hells Canyon after returns lagged and the harvest quota was reached, ending the season June 3 (with Lookingglass Creek fishing continuing). Idaho Water Stress: East Idaho residents are debating lawn watering as near-record drought tightens supplies; agriculture still dominates Idaho withdrawals, but municipal conservation is increasingly in the spotlight. Public Lands Access vs Wildlife: Idaho conservation groups criticized Trump’s repeal of off-road vehicle rules on public land, warning it could weaken protections for water and wildlife. Invasive Species Funding: Blaine County delayed a vote on Idaho Fish and Game’s cheatgrass plan, leaving a proposed herbicide treatment on private lands in limbo while a scaled-back option is drafted. Local Water Infrastructure: Boise indefinitely paused construction of a southeast Boise recycled-water facility, citing sharply higher construction and labor costs and aiming to keep rates affordable. Wildlife-Friendly Migration: USDA expanded Farm Bill funding to help farmers and ranchers protect big-game migration corridors across 17 states, including Idaho. Air-Show Cleanup: Highway 167 near Mountain Home is expected to reopen within weeks after a May 17 Navy jet crash, with Idaho DEQ approving repaving.

Water & Drought Resilience: Boise has indefinitely paused construction of its planned southeast recycled water treatment facility, blaming sharply higher construction and labor costs and aiming to keep utility rates affordable while protecting the Boise River and the aquifer that supplies most drinking water. Mining & National Defense: A federal court in Idaho rejected opponents’ bid to stop construction of Perpetua Resources’ Stibnite gold project, clearing the way for a major domestic antimony source tied to defense supply chains. Wildlife on Working Lands: USDA expanded a Farm Bill-funded program to help farmers and ranchers protect big-game migration corridors across 17 states, including Idaho, using “wildlife-friendly practices” on private land. Public Lands Recreation: Conservation groups in Idaho and the West criticized Trump’s repeal of off-road vehicle and over-snow vehicle executive orders, warning it could weaken protections for water, wildlife, and habitat. Idaho Outdoors & Health: East Idaho is seeing more ticks after a mild winter, and officials urge careful checks and prevention as tick-borne diseases remain a concern. Wild Horses: BLM highlighted how it manages growing wild horse herds at the Bruneau off-range corrals, where more than 1,200 mustangs are housed and offered for adoption when populations exceed forage.

Big Game Habitat: USDA unveiled a new framework for migratory big game conservation across 17 states, aiming to improve landscape connectivity and forage for elk, pronghorn and mule deer by aligning federal, state, tribal and private efforts. Public Lands & Mining: The BLM is taking comments on DeLamar Mining’s plan to reopen and expand the DeLamar mine west of Silver City, with an Environmental Impact Statement expected in 2027. Outdoor Health: East Idaho residents are reporting more ticks after a mild winter; University of Idaho Extension urges careful checks and EPA-approved repellents. Wildlife Safety & Coexistence: A new roundup highlights how rare mountain lion attacks are, while reminding Idaho outdoor-goers to know how to respond in cougar country. Recreation Access: Idaho Fish and Game and partners are rolling out solar-powered digital kiosks at recreation sites to help hunters and anglers access maps, regulations and wildlife info without relying on cell service. Energy Costs: A DNC release argues gas prices have stayed high nationwide despite promises they’d fall under $3, underscoring pressure on households heading into summer.

Wildfire readiness: Agencies across the Northwest kicked off “Smoke Ready Week,” urging Idahoans to check air filters, set ventilation to recirculate, and track real-time air quality as an earlier, smokeier season is expected. Drought and trout: Montana State University launched FishCast, a real-time tool that forecasts drought risk for trout rivers and potential fishing restrictions based on streamflow and trout trends. Public lands access: Idaho Fish and Game and the BLM rolled out solar-powered digital kiosks that let visitors download maps, regulations, and wildlife and recreation info even where cell service is spotty. Mining and impacts: The BLM is taking comments through June 29 on DeLamar Mining’s plan to reopen and expand the DeLamar Mine west of Silver City, with an Environmental Impact Statement expected next. Wildlife recovery: A California condor (B9) made a historic free flight into Oregon for the first time in more than 120 years, part of a restoration effort that began in Boise. Outdoor health: East Idaho residents are reporting more ticks after a mild winter, with guidance to use repellent, wear protective clothing, and do thorough tick checks.

Wildfire Smoke Prep: Agencies kick off “Smoke Ready Week,” urging Idahoans to check filters and ventilation settings as an El Niño-linked, hotter/drier summer could bring earlier wildfire smoke. Climate Signals for Idaho: A Climate Central analysis finds Boise is now about 6.3 degrees warmer in summer than since 1970, with many more “hotter-than-normal” summer days. Public Lands & Wildlife: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says more than 95% of national refuge lands could allow additional hunting and sport fishing, including new options in Idaho. Yellowstone Drone Incident: An Idaho Falls resident captured a drone harassing a mother grizzly and cubs in Yellowstone; flying drones in parks is illegal. Idaho Recreation Update: Upper Mesa Falls near Ashton will close Aug. 10 for renovations, while Lower Mesa Falls and nearby trails remain open. Mining Watch: Bunker Hill Mining reports further high-grade silver-lead results from the Cate-8 vein near its Idaho-area mine. Water Infrastructure: Albeni Falls Dam gets a major spillway gate replacement contract aimed at flood control, hydropower, and fish and wildlife conservation.

Boise Mountains Outdoor Access: A new spotlight on the Adelmann Mine trail near Lucky Peak is drawing more hikers with its steep climb through rocky, low-shade terrain and a preserved gold-mill history that also overlaps wildlife habitat. Energy & Environment Debate: The U.S. is pushing small and micro nuclear reactors as a clean-energy fix, but critics warn about costs, waste, and safety concerns—an argument that will land in Idaho as power and climate pressures rise. Public Lands Recreation Policy: The Trump administration rescinded older off-road vehicle limits on federal lands, a move that could expand riding in places like national parks and raise new habitat and erosion questions. Idaho Wildlife & Community Safety: The Idaho Chukar Foundation hosted rattlesnake, skunk, and porcupine avoidance training for dogs and owners, aiming to prevent bites and injuries. North Idaho Planning: Kootenai County is asking residents to help shape its updated comprehensive plan and first Parks & Waterways Plan, with growth and natural-resource protection at the center. Southern Idaho Parks Visitation: NPS reports 430,000+ visits to southern Idaho parks in 2025, including a record at Minidoka National Historic Site. Water Infrastructure: Albeni Falls Dam is moving ahead with spillway gate replacement work to keep flood control, hydropower, and fish-and-wildlife functions on track. Local Food & Land Use: Portneuf Valley Partners broke ground on a new Pocatello community garden with plots for rent and shared harvest areas.

Idaho Public Lands & Wildlife: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says more than 95% of national refuge lands could be opened to hunting and sport fishing, including new Idaho access at Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge—part of a broader push to expand recreation on public lands. Data Centers & Local Water/Energy Stress: A national backlash to AI data centers keeps growing, with residents citing heavy water and power use and environmental impacts; Idaho communities are also watching how states set rules or delays as projects move forward. North Idaho Water Infrastructure: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $20.4M contract to replace spillway gates at Albeni Falls Dam, aiming to improve flood control, hydropower operations, and fish and wildlife outcomes. Community Cleanups: Volunteers and divers removed 1,175 pounds of trash and debris from Lake Coeur d’Alene and Tubbs Hill, pairing cleanup with local environmental education. Southern Idaho Parks Visitation: Southern Idaho recreation hit 431,522 visits in 2025 across four NPS sites, including a record 43,539 at Minidoka National Historic Site.

Public Lands Hunting Push: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says more than 95% of national refuge lands could be open to hunting and sport fishing under proposed changes, including new Idaho access at Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Off-Road Vehicle Rules: President Trump rescinded long-standing executive orders that restricted off-road vehicles on public lands, a move that could loosen limits in many national parks. Idaho Wetlands Fight: Idaho and 22 other states urged the U.S. Supreme Court to back a Connecticut farmer challenging EPA wetlands allegations, arguing the Sackett ruling shouldn’t be stretched to cover water connections that aren’t continuous. Local Land-Use Pressure (Bonner): Missoula County delayed a review of a proposed Bonner data center again, citing the applicant’s incomplete materials; the board will weigh compatibility with nearby homes and environmental impacts like traffic, noise, lights and heat. Community Cleanups: Volunteers and divers removed 1,175 pounds of trash and debris from Lake Coeur d’Alene and Tubbs Hill. Southern Idaho Park Visits: Four southern Idaho parks drew 431,522 recreation visits in 2025, including a record 43,539 at Minidoka National Historic Site. Wildlife & Recreation Safety: Outdoor agencies and officials emphasized caution during dry conditions and reminded people to leave baby wildlife alone.

Public Lands & Wildlife: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says more than 95% of national refuge lands could be open to hunting and sport fishing under proposed changes, including new Idaho opportunities at Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Water & Wetlands Law: Idaho and 22 other states urge the Supreme Court to uphold the Sackett wetlands limits, arguing the Clean Water Act is being stretched beyond what the ruling allows. Forest Management: The Forest Service delayed a key Upper Bigwood Vegetation Management Project decision near Ketchum by about two months to better consider public input and ensure Endangered Species Act compliance. River Health: Project Big Wood’s 2026 Big Wood River report warns that earlier spring runoff and low flows could raise fish stress and mortality risk as summer heats up. Community Cleanups: Volunteers and divers removed 1,175 pounds of trash and debris from Lake Coeur d’Alene and Tubbs Hill. Local Food & Gardening: Portneuf Valley Partners broke ground on a new Pocatello community garden with plots and classes to boost local, sustainable food growing. Outdoors & Education: Idaho Falls Zoo’s “Party for the Planet” event brings hands-on conservation learning for families.

Water & Drought: Boise is rolling out “Keep Boise Cool” and water-wise gardening help as more than 900,000 Idahoans live in drought conditions, with rebates and planning standards aimed at stretching supplies. Wildlife & Habitat: A new University of Michigan analysis finds drought is shrinking suitable habitat for multiple species, including deer, bears, and cougars—raising the stakes for Idaho-area conservation planning. Public Lands & Fire Risk: The U.S. Forest Service delayed a key Upper Bigwood Vegetation Management Project by about two months to better address public feedback and Endangered Species Act compliance, as thinning work targets wildfire and insect outbreaks near Ketchum. Streams & Fisheries: Project Big Wood’s 2026 State of the Big Wood River report warns that earlier spring runoff and low flows could mean harsher summer conditions for fish, with dissolved oxygen concerns as temperatures rise. Legal Fight Over Wetlands: Idaho and 22 other states urged the U.S. Supreme Court to limit the Clean Water Act after a poultry farmer’s wetlands case challenges how “waters of the U.S.” are defined under Sackett. Tribal Sovereignty & Data Centers: The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes’ Fort Hall Business Council opposes data center development on and near the reservation, citing water, energy, cultural impacts, and the need for government-to-government consultation. Animal Health: H5N1 avian influenza has resurfaced in Idaho dairy cattle, with five new infected herds reported—after the state’s last detections in late 2025. Recreation & Safety: The Forest Service named a new leader for the Ketchum Ranger District, while Idaho’s “100 Deadliest Days” kicks off with renewed motorcycle safety messaging for summer travel.

Radioactive Waste Ban: A Wayne County judge permanently blocked a hazardous waste landfill from accepting elevated radioactivity waste tied to historic atomic bomb and atomic energy sites, citing rising cancer and disease risks for nearby communities. Idaho Drought Response: Boise is urging water conservation as more than 900,000 Idahoans live in drought conditions, highlighting “Keep Boise Cool” tips and water-wise landscaping classes plus incentives. Climate Heat Signal: A new analysis finds U.S. summers have warmed broadly since 1970, with most major cities seeing hotter summers—an Idaho-relevant backdrop for wildfire and water stress. Idaho Mineral Mapping: Idaho’s state geologist says new USGS/Idaho Geological Survey mineral maps can help guide future resource planning and also relate to faults and groundwater. Wildlife & Habitat: An Idaho couple donated 330 acres to create the Cottonwood Canyon Nature Preserve, protecting mule deer, river otters, owls, and rare birds as development pressures open land. Wildlife Health Watch: H5N1 avian influenza has resurfaced in Idaho dairy cattle, with new infected herds confirmed after a quieter stretch. Public Safety on Roads: Idaho marked Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and the start of the “100 Deadliest Days,” emphasizing “Look Twice” and rider safety as summer travel ramps up.

Wildlife & Disease: Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has resurfaced in Idaho dairy cattle, with federal officials confirming five new infected herds in mid-April—Idaho’s first detections since December 2025—raising concerns that the virus may still be circulating undetected. Public Health & Radiation: A judge permanently halted radioactive waste shipments to a Wayne County landfill, citing long-term health risks from elevated radioactivity material tied to historic atomic cleanup efforts. Water & Climate: A new drought snapshot shows Oklahoma’s dryness worsening in the west while the east improves, with I-35 acting as a dividing line—an early warning for summer stress on water and agriculture. Idaho Environment Policy: Northern Panhandle counties voted to deny the Panhandle Health District’s FY2027 budget, pointing to concerns about the district’s environmental regulatory side and employee cost increases. Conservation & Access: Spokane leaders are being urged to make the Spokane River more accessible, building on major sewage and stormwater cleanup gains that have cut overflows to near zero. Education & Environment Jobs: Transfer agreements are expanding in the Inland Northwest, including a new pathway from Spokane Community College to the University of Idaho’s Wildlife Sciences bachelor’s program. Outdoor Recreation: Idaho’s newest state park, Twin Peaks Ranch State Park near Salmon, is set to open with a June 27 ribbon-cutting and public celebration.

Wildfire Watch: A new federal wildfire risk outlook flags large swaths of the U.S. as facing above-normal fire potential this summer, driven by drought, dry fuels, and warmer-than-normal temperatures. Fuel-Reduction Payoff: Two new studies put a price tag on prescribed burns and other fuel treatments, finding big public savings from avoided wildfire property loss, smoke, and health impacts. Idaho Wildlife: Trail cameras in Idaho’s Payette National Forest captured rare wolverines, a sign biologists hoped for after the species was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Bear River Water Quality: Tri-state agencies released results of a 2021 Bear River Basin survey, showing relatively favorable biological conditions but identifying some E. coli hotspots. Local Conservation & Access: Idaho celebrates the opening of Twin Peaks Ranch State Park near Salmon, the first new Idaho State Park in 30 years. Public Health/Environment: Northern county commissioners denied a Panhandle Health District budget tied to clinical expansion plans, while also citing concerns about the district’s environmental regulatory side.