What is the Recreation Fund Council?
The Idaho Outdoor Recreation Fund Advisory Council was created by Gov. Brad Little and the Idaho Legislature to recommend projects to expand outdoor recreation or access to it in Idaho. Examples could include expansion of recreational facilities (parks, trails, boating, etc.) or agreements to gain entry to new areas for public recreation.
The Legislature in early 2023 provided $5 million in initial funding for the council’s work. In the 2024 session, the Legislature provided a second, $5 million installment for distribution.
The Council will meet on Oct. 25, 2024 to consider the latest round of project applications.
Funding for this round of projects comes from the American Rescue Plan Act, which carries firm timelines for any funds to be obligated and spent. Projects must be under contract by the end of 2024 and completed before the end of 2026.
Gov. Little’s executive order creating the council targets “opportunities for camping, fishing, hunting, accessing trails and other outdoor pursuits” for potential projects. IDPR, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and the Idaho Department of Lands are charged to work cooperatively to propose projects, manage under-utilized resources and monetize outdoor recreation for long-term sustainability.
About the Council
Council members are:
- Tom Schultz, Council Chair
- Susan Buxton, Director, Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation
- Jim Fredericks, Director, Idaho Department of Fish and Game
- Dustin Miller, Director, Idaho Department of Lands
- James Petzke, Representative, Idaho Legislature, District 21, Seat A
- Gretchen Hyde, Director, Rangeland Resources Commission
- Mark Pratt, Idaho Cattle Association
- Kari Kostka, The Nature Conservancy
- Benn Brocksome, Idaho Sportsmen
- Dave Lent, Senator, Idaho Legislature, District 33
- Laurel Sayer, President, Perpetua Resources
- Sandra Mitchell, Idaho State Snowmobile Association
- Seth Griggs, Idaho Association of Counties
For more information about the Council and its work, contact ORFAC Coordinator Skylar Jett at skylarjett13@gmail.com or at 208-599-3264.