JFAC approves Fish and Game supplemental and one‑time appropriation for Boise River WMA fire response

The Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee approved two supplemental actions for the Department of Fish and Game related to fire damage response in the Boise River Wildlife Management Area.

First, the committee approved a FY2025 supplemental of $270,000 from the Fish and Game expendable trust fund to replace appropriation authority the department used to address damage last October. The department had expended trust fund monies for aerial reseeding and other mitigation work; the supplemental replaces those funds so the department can proceed with its original plan.

Second, the committee approved a FY2026 one‑time appropriation of $800,000 from the Fish and Game expendable trust fund to fund continued rehabilitation work on the Valley Fire damage, including hazardous‑fuel treatment removal, seeding and aerial application if necessary. Committee analysts reported an agreement had been reached to transfer $800,000 to Fish and Game to support restoration.

Representative Manwaring moved the FY2025 supplemental and Senator Woodward later moved the FY2026 one‑time appropriation; both motions were seconded and passed. The combined roll calls recorded strong support: the FY2025 supplemental passed with 19 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent/excused (combined count reported); the FY2026 appropriation passed with similar strong support.

Committee members said the FY2026 appropriation information was not available until shortly before the meeting, which delayed consideration. Analysts said the funds come from the Fish and Game expendable trust fund and are intended for rehabilitation and remediation of the affected wildlife management area.