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University of Idaho agricultural research asks for targeted hires, maintenance funds; dean announces retirement
Summary
University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences leaders outlined research and extension activities, asked for targeted faculty and maintenance funding, described ARPA‑funded digital literacy work and a pending FCC grant, and announced the dean's upcoming retirement.
Kevin Campbell, budget and policy analyst with the Legislative Services Office, presented the Agricultural Research and Extension Service (the University of Idaho’s research and extension mission) overview and FY2026 requests to the Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee Monday.
Michael Perella, dean of the University of Idaho’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS), told the committee he will retire in June and summarized the college’s statewide research, extension and infrastructure footprint. The service operates research and extension centers in 42 of Idaho’s 44 counties, maintains more than 14,000 acres for research, and reported roughly 341.33 full‑time positions.
Why it matters: Idaho agriculture contributes a substantial share of the state’s economic output. Lawmakers and the college tied requested investments to maintaining research capacity for crops, livestock and rural community services — including viticulture and small fruits, irrigation, and digital literacy in rural areas.
Fiscal and program details Campbell…
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