Idaho Outfitters and Guides

Important but deeply un-sexy - IOGA on the road


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This week on the IOGA Podcast, hosts Erik Weiseth and Jack Hurty dive into a dense legislative update from Washington, D.C., and Boise. The episode was supposed to feature an interview with Liz Townley of the U.S. Forest Service regarding the implementation of the EXPLORE Act, but tech problems stopped that effort. The episode also includes critical updates on public land amendments and labor laws affecting the outfitting industry.

🎙️ Episode Highlights🏛️ Legislative Updates from D.C. & Boise
  • The ORG Act: Erik reports from Washington, D.C., where he is meeting with legislators to advocate for the Outdoor Recreational Outfitting and Guiding (ORG) Act. The goal is to secure an exemption for outfitters within the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), recognizing that standard 40-hour work weeks don't apply to multi-day wilderness trips.
  • Public Lands Amendments: Jack provides a breakdown of two competing constitutional amendments in Idaho:
    • Raybold-Petzky Amendment: Aimed at adjusting the mandate for the Idaho Department of Lands; currently stalled after a 7-7 deadlock in committee.
    • Senator Ben Adams' Bill: A "backstop" bill to ensure any federal land transferred to the state is placed in a trust and cannot be sold. This bill successfully passed out of committee.

  • Director Appointments (SB 1300): Discussion on a bill that would change the Directors of Fish & Game and Parks & Rec from commission-hired to Governor-appointed positions. The team discusses the potential impact on scientific management and a specific $150 million risk regarding the Harriman State Park deed.
🗺️ Industry & Agency News
  • BLM Leadership: The hosts discuss the nomination of Steve Pierce to lead the BLM and Senator Risch’s strong questioning regarding Pierce’s past stance on selling public lands.
  • The Lower Snake River: An update on the recent court injunction ordering higher spill levels at dams to protect salmon and steelhead populations.
  • Boise Airport "Gate 58": IOGA continues to advocate for a dedicated "backdoor" access point at the Boise Airport for backcountry flight connections.
💡 Featured Interview: Liz Townley (U.S. Forest Service)

Liz Townley joins the show to discuss the EXPLORE Act. While many outfitters focus on specific permitting tweaks, Liz provides a high-level overview of the Act’s broader scope.

  • Broad Implementation: Moving from legislation to agency rulemaking.
  • Future Impact: How the Act will reshape federal recreation management and the permitting landscape over the long term.
📅 Upcoming Member Meetings
  • SNRA Outfitter Meeting: Monday, March 9th @ 11:00 AM – Ketchum Library.
  • Nez Clear Outfitter Meeting: April 7th – Orofino (Details to follow).
🎨 Call for Artists!

The Whitewater License Plate is getting a makeover. IOGA is looking for Idaho artists and guides to submit designs for the new plate to help increase grant funding for river-related causes.

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Idaho Outfitters and GuidesBy Erik Weiseth