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Fish and Game seeks one‑time funding for projects, explains license account swings after federal billing lag
Summary
In a JF committee briefing, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game described a mostly fee‑supported budget, highlighted a large 2026 one‑time enhancement package and outlined emergency rehabilitation work after the Valley Fire; officials also explained a temporary dip in license account balances tied to federal grant billing timing.
The Joint Finance Corporation Committee heard the Idaho Department of Fish and Game present its fiscal 2026 budget requests, one‑time restoration needs and the agency’s account activity.
Janet Jessup, the legislative services budget analyst, told the committee the department does not receive general funds and instead relies on dedicated fees and federal funds, with the Fish and Game Fund receiving money from hunting, fishing and trapping licenses. She said the department is allocated about 550 full‑time positions and runs 19 state fisheries facilities.
Why it matters: Fish and Game’s budget decisions affect hunting and fishing access, hatchery production and wildlife management across Idaho; one‑time funding for rehabilitation or capital work can directly affect habitat and public access.
Jessup summarized recent and proposed spending: the department expended roughly 46% of its budget on capital and significant shares…
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