Legislation Looks To Alter Idaho’s APAs

Earlier this week, the Idaho senate held a hearing on Senate Bill 1133A, legislation looking to refine the state’s Agricultural Protection Areas, or APAs.  Dex Lake with the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation said this bill looks to clarify the APA application process at the county level, ensuring efficiency and transparency.

“The updates ensure APAs don't change county zoning or comprehensive plans and creates a dedicated APA map for county planning purposes. One major provision allows agricultural landowners within a county's jurisdiction, whether inside or outside an area of impact, to apply for APA status.”

Lake said some have raised concerns about extending eligibility to those in areas of impact, but he pointed out that these areas of impact remain under County jurisdiction.  And he stressed counties still have full authority to approve or deny APA requests.

“An APA does not change land use; farmland stays farmland.  And Idaho law already protects agricultural land from forced annexation.  IFBF believes that farmers deserve the opportunity to apply for APA designation and that the process should be clear and fair.”

The full Senate is expected to vote on this SB1133A soon.

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