Last week ICA leadership and staff met to set the association's annual priorities during a meeting in Twin Falls. Be sure to look for further details on this in the January issue of Line Rider.
Additionally, travels took us to Northern Idaho, where we met with leadership at the University of Idaho, and also members and supporters in District 1. Meeting items at the U of I included heavy discussion around how we, as an association and membership, can engage and communicate with both students & university faculty to educate on and promote the beef industry. We were enlightened on projects and research happening at the university and had excellent dialogue with each College of Ag & Life Sciences and College of Natural Resources.
A district meeting was held in each Moscow and Cottonwood that were both well attended and provided an opportunity to discuss region-specific topics. These topics included:
- Idaho Department of Lands
- State and Federal leases, as well as conservation leases
- Wildfire issues
- Communications and responses from federal & state agencies, as it relates to the management of grounds, in addition to efforts in motion with agencies.
- Feedback regarding a proposed GIP (grazing improvement program) in Idaho
- Dialogue surrounding bordering states brand inspectors and state burden
- Predatory concerns regarding grizzly bears
We are continuing to solicit our members for discussion on topics affecting producers in the state, so please be sure to speak with your ICA Board rep or call the office if you have an item you'd like to see addressed or supported! We encourage you to carve time out and attend your District specific meetings, as this is a wonderful way to communicate and network with fellow producers.