Herndon votes against agriculture, water are harmful

Senator Scott Herndon’s 2024 votes against Idaho agriculture and water are misaligned with District 1 constituents; not “Saving Idaho” as he promotes. 

Agriculture is Idaho’s largest industry. We’re the No. 1 U.S. barley-producing state, the annual crop value exceeding $1 billion. We’re “Top 6” in wheat production and an internationally preferred supplier. Locally grown barley, wheat, alfalfa, timothy, canola, cattle and more commodities are sold here, regionally and exported internationally.  

There are 1,100-plus farms and ranches run by 2,100-plus producers in Boundary and Bonner counties. District 1 gross farm income exceeds $63 million and is spent here on fuel, services, parts, and equipment. Strong local FFA and 4-H programs teach future stewards, ranchers, and agribusiness entrepreneurs. The Idaho Department of Agriculture supports many in agriculture; Herndon voted against its funding.  

Private water systems fed by wells and springs are often member-run associations. They rely on the Idaho Department of Water Resources-IDWR for guidance and oversight needed to continually provide drinking water. Herndon voted against funding the IDWR.

Idaho’s 107,000-plus “river miles” are the most in the lower 48. They feed our scenic lakes supporting Idaho tourism and recreation. Inadequate inspection of out-of-state watercraft for invasive species including freshwater mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil endangers sensitive water ecosystems. Herndon voted against funding inspection.     

Herndon’s consistent votes against agriculture and water endanger our Idaho way of life. Jim Woodward understands Idaho, supports agriculture, and protects Idaho waters and our natural resources; Herndon does not.

JEFF HOOD

Kootenai Valley