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University of Idaho Ag Research and Extension seeks faculty and facility funds; dean announces June retirement
Summary
The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee heard the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) budget request and was told the college is requesting targeted faculty and maintenance funding while Dean Michael Perella announced his planned retirement in June.
The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee reviewed the University of Idaho's Agricultural Research and Extension Service (CALS) base budget and FY2026 requests on Monday, February 10. Dean Michael Perella, who said he will retire in June, and CALS staff described faculty, facility and program needs that support research, extension and statewide outreach.
Why it matters: CALS supports research, extension and education across Idaho and reported that agricultural activity accounts for nearly 20% of the state's economic output. The college operates a physical presence in 42 of Idaho's 44 counties and manages over 14,000 acres of research land. Committee members pressed for outcomes, the rationale for continuation of programs started with federal funds, and clarification about a recent ARPA-funded adult digital-literacy effort.
Key requests and programs: Kevin Campbell, the Legislative Services Office analyst, summarized FY2026 requests including a $157,900 ongoing general fund request for a…
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