University of Idaho’s ag research and extension asks legislature to sustain research staff, highlights new broadband and digital literacy grants

University of Idaho agricultural research and extension leaders asked the Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee to continue funding strategic research faculty and facility maintenance while describing ongoing outreach and a recently secured federal digital‑literacy award.

Kevin Campbell, budget and policy analyst with the Legislative Services Office, summarized the Agricultural Research and Extension Service’s base budget and FY2026 requests on Feb. 10, noting the service operates research and extension centers across the state, holds access to roughly 14,000 acres of research land and reported about 341.33 FTP (full‑time positions).

Michael Perella, dean of the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS), told JFAC he will retire in June after nine years as dean and then presented the college’s priorities and recent accomplishments. Perella emphasized statewide reach, noting extension’s presence in 42 of Idaho’s 44 counties and three tribal communities and the college’s role as Idaho’s land‑grant institution.

Why it matters: CALS supports production agriculture, rural community development and applied research spanning crops, soil health, irrigation, livestock and youth programs. Lawmakers asked…