Biological Diversity Policy

Idaho does not have a formal biodiversity policy, although it has some scattered policies related to wildlife habitat and preservation. For instance, the Idaho Forest Practices Act states that it is the public policy of the state to encourage forest practices that maintain and enhance "habitat for wildlife and aquatic life." (Idaho Code 38-1302) Also, in recognizing the value of fish and wildlife habitat, the legislature has mandated that minimum stream flows be required. (Idaho Code 42-1501)

Status of Biodiversity Science

Idaho does not have a coordinated assessment system in place. Instead, the state utilizes GAP, the Natural Heritage database, and other agency databases. The Department of Fish and Game is attempting to informally integrate these databases in biodiversity conservation planning and habitat mitigation.

Endangered Species

Idaho does not have an endangered species act for either plants or animals. The state has its own list of endangered, protected or "special concern" species, along with prohibitions against taking, but no other program of protection exists. (Idaho APA, tit. 1, ch.6,150)

State Agency Management for Biodiversity

State-owned Lands

Idaho natural resource agcncics are not required to plan and manage their lands in a biologically sustainable manner. However, the Department of Fish and Game is preparing a fisheries management plan that will have biodiversity conservation components. The plan will attempt to coordinate fisheries management with information about impacts of foreign species on native fish. In 1995, the state legislature passed a measure barring non-ranchers from bidding on rangeland.

Cooperative Efforts

Some state agencies engage in cooperative efforts to improve land management across ownership boundaries. For instance, the Idaho State Conservation Effort is a state-led program with federal participants that is attempting to implement rare and sensitive species conservation programs. In addition, an Ecosystem Management Partnership exists between Boise Cascade Corporation, state and federal agency representatives, conservation organizations and other landowners to contribute to biodiversity protection wnlle maintaining a focus on tree harvesting.

State Agency Training

Idaho does not have identified programs of agency personnel training for biodiversity.

Impact Assessment

Idaho does not have a "little NEPA," requiring assessment of major proposed agency impacts on thc environment. However, the policy of the Department of Lands is to minimize impacts on state lands by examining alternatives to actions on those lands. No other impact assessment mechanisms were identified.

Habitat Acquisition

Idaho does not have a statutory program specifically designed to acquire lands important because of their biodiversity values. However, the Department of Fish and Game uses funds from state license fees, through several statutory funds, to pay for fisheries and wildlife habitat purchases. The funds consist mainly of monies from hunting and fishing license reserves and predatory animal fur sales. Before purchasing any lands, however, the Department is required to first attempt to obtain a conservation easement. (Idaho Code 36-104)

Private Land Conservation

Idaho possesses private land conservation programs to protect land for wildlife. For example, conservation easements are authorized by statute, and land used for wildlife habitat is eligible for property tax reductions. (Idaho Code 63-112A) Landowners can also get assistance in enforcing restrictions on the use of motor vehicles on their lands when the restrictions protect wildlife or wildlife habitat. (Idaho Code 36-104)

Exotic Species

Idaho has some provisions designed to control the introduction and spread of exotic species. For example, a permit is required to import or release any species of wildlife into the state. (Idaho Code 36-701, 1401) Violations constitute a felony. Plants are regulated through noxious weed provisions that require inspection of seeds, landowner responsibility and quarantine authority. (Idaho Code 22-2001) Penalties include fines of up to $3,000 and imprisonment of one year.

Predator or Animal Damage Control Activities

Idaho's animal damage control program is run primarily by the federal government, although some responsibilities are split between federal and state agents. For example, the state responds to big game as well as health problems with lions and bears. The federal government controls most migratory bird problems, rodent problems and livestock depredations.

Additional Legal Protections for Biodiversity

No constitutional or common law protections were identified by the research.

Related Issues

Idaho participates in Project WILD and published a wildlife viewing guide in 1990.

Idaho passed takings legislation in 1992 requiring state and local governmental units to prepare takings impact assessments on proposed legislation. (Idaho Code 67-8001 to 8004) Legislation passed in 1995 applies the requirements of the 1992 law to local units of government. (HB 212, 290)

Contacts:

Department of Agriculture
P.O. Box 790
Boise, ID 83701
208-334-3240

Department of Lands
P.O. Box 83720
1215 W. State St.
Boise, ID 83720-0500
208-334-0200

Fish and Game Department
600 S. Walnut
Box 25
Boise, ID 83707
208-334-3700

Idaho State Parks and Recreation
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0065
208-334-4199

State Extension Services
University of Idaho
Cooperative Extension System
Moscow, ID 83843
208-885-6356