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Forest utilization research program requests workforce manager to train students on $2 million logging technology
Summary
The Forest Utilization Research program at the University of Idaho asked the committee for funding for a workforce development manager to supervise student training on new advanced logging equipment the program recently purchased with logging proceeds and private contributions.
The Forest Utilization Research program (part of the University of Idaho College of Natural Resources) told the Joint Finance Committee it needs a workforce development manager to train students on newly acquired advanced forestry and logging technology.
Kevin Campbell, legislative analyst, said the program (FUR) has 13.28 authorized FTP with a half‑FTE vacancy and that the majority of its budget covers wages and benefits. Dean Dennis Becker, appearing for the college and the program director, told the committee the program manages experimental forests, tree farms, a nursery, watershed projects and the Wildland Fire Center.
Becker said the program recently purchased about $2,000,000 in advanced logging technology funded from logging proceeds and private industry assistance and that the proposed workforce development manager would supervise and train students operating that equipment in the experimental forest. He described the request as partially funded in the governor’s recommendation and said the manager role would support workforce development goals by giving students hands‑on training and supervision.
Committee members had no substantive questions during the brief presentation other than routine clarifications; the committee did not take formal action during the hearing.
