A dry spring is triggering tougher water rules for Idaho farmers

Water shortages in Idaho’s Eastern Snake Plain are creating challenges for farmers this irrigation season.

The state now expects a shortfall of more than 75,000 acre-feet of water because of a dry spring and fast snowmelt.

Junior groundwater users may face limits. Senior water rights still take priority under state law.

Because of a 2024 settlement, many farmers have plans in place to avoid restrictions.
However, with the irrigation season nearing its end, more farmers could be forced to reduce groundwater pumping to protect regional supplies.

Related Stories
Seth Tucker of Tucker Farms, a first-generation Arkansas farmer, says rising input costs are forcing changes to his operation, including stepping away from rice this season.
Rich Nelson with Allendale joined us to break down early planting progress, market expectations, and what producers should keep an eye on as the season moves forward.
Smaller beekeepers may find opportunities despite ongoing colony health challenges.
Technology returns depend on management, not just adoption.
The sugar policy debate affects prices, trade, and farm stability.
Farmer Jeffry Mitchell with the Mississippi Farm Bureau joins us for a spring planting update from the southeast region as drought, input costs, and fertilizer access complicate crop progress.

Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.