Idaho Geological Survey seeks partial permanent funding for database manager amid grant uncertainty

Kevin Campbell, Legislative Services Office analyst, presented the Idaho Geological Survey (IGS) FY2026 request and said IGS is the state’s lead agency for geologic and mineral data. IGS Director Claudio Berti told the committee the database manager position has been grant funded in the past but that grant sources are uncertain.

Berti said the position helps maintain Idaho’s geologic data systems, supports the Idaho Seismic Network through equipment such as a seismometer, and enables IGS to match federal funding—"that position creates three more positions for us," he said—because some federal grants require state match. He told the committee IGS has historically used funds from Department of Lands programs (abandoned mine lands) to support the position and that losing the grant or that revenue source would jeopardize the work and the survey’s ability to match federal grants.

Berti described other IGS activities: statewide geologic mapping, mineral assessments and a data preservation program that collects and distributes geologic information. Several legislators asked whether IGS partners with campus units on economic impact studies; Berti said IGS is developing partnerships but currently does not have in‑house capacity to perform full economic impact assessments.

Committee members asked for clarity about the timeline to convert the part‑time or grant‑supported position to a full permanent position; Berti said the agency seeks continued incremental funding but that the pace depends on appropriation levels. No votes were taken on IGS requests during the hearing.