Simpson Announces Funds For Idaho Ag Projects

The federal government returned to business-as-usual Thursday, and the Idaho Ag community benefited.

Idaho Representative Mike Simpson announced the inclusion of $3,000,000 in funding for the Idaho Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment Project, better known as CAFE, via the Community Project Funding.

Funding For CAFE Will Built On Existing Efforts

This funding would be used to build a flexible manure handling system at the CAFE location near Rupert.  The flexible manure treatment system will be used for testing and evaluating manure separation and nutrient extraction technologies.

Simpson's office noted this funding will build on investments already made that supported research equipment storage and a shop facility for ARS at their Kimberly site and the building of a basic manure separation facility.

“Throughout my time in Congress, I have proudly worked to ensure that Idaho's agriculture can continue to thrive. Like many Idaho agriculture sectors, the dairy industry plays a significant role in our state's economy,” Simpson said. “Securing funding for this world-class research center is crucial for promoting long-term sustainability in Idaho's agriculture industry. I am committed to supporting Idaho's dairy industry and ensuring our tax dollars are being put to work right here at home.”

Industry, University Praise These Funds

“We are thankful for Congressman Simpson’s continued support and advocacy for Idaho agriculture,” said Leslie Edgar, J.R. Simplot Endowed Dean of the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. “His tireless work to secure this critical funding for Idaho CAFE enables us to fulfill our land-grant mission and conduct applied research that will benefit Idaho’s dairy farmers. By working together, we will ensure that the Idaho dairy industry has the necessary data and tools for continued success.”

“Thank you, Congressman Simpson, for your work in securing funding for CAFE through the congressional appropriations process," said Rick Naerebout, CEO of the Idaho Dairymen's Assocation.  "This vital community project strengthens both the University of Idaho and the state’s dairy Industry. CAFE will provide dairy farmers and researchers the opportunity to test new strategies and technologies on a true-to-scale Idaho dairy, helping the industry advance through applied research and innovation. Agriculture is the backbone of Idaho’s economy, and we appreciate leaders like Congressman Simpson who recognize its importance and support the continued growth of our dairy industry for generations to come." 

In addition to the funds set aside for CAFE, Simpson announced the inclusion of $700,000 in funding for the Bingham County Aquifer Data and Sustainability Project in Blackfoot.

Simpson Notes This Project Will Benefit Eastern Idaho Growers

This funding would be used to implement a groundwater telemetry monitoring system to enhance groundwater and soil moisture monitoring while streamlining flow meter data. These upgrades will improve Bingham Groundwater District’s ability to manage groundwater in an area that has the most impact on the Upper Snake River reach gains.  Real-time groundwater and soil moisture will provide essential data to guide sustainable water use, aquifer recharge efforts and water quality protection.

“During this pivotal time for water resources in Idaho, I am proud to support the Bingham Groundwater District's initiative to implement a comprehensive groundwater conservation project," Simpson said of this funding.  "This project will significantly benefit Idaho's agriculture community and help guide sustainable water use and aquifer recharge efforts. Ensuring a reliable water supply is critical at this time for the social and economic stability of the Bingham County community, and funding this project will support long-term water sustainability for years to come."

“At a pivotal time when water resources are increasingly constrained, this project provides the basis for sustainable aquifer management and helps secure our nation's food supply. We're excited to put the Ethos technology to use in targeting our conservation efforts to resolve conflicts and provide better drought resilience,” said Alan Jackson, District Manager of the Bingham Ground Water District. 

The Benefit Of Community Project Funding

Simpson's office added in Thursday's announcement:

Despite claims that CPF projects are “wasteful earmarks,” Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

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