Advocating for Agriculture in Lincoln County, Idaho

Local governments use county land use codes to help manage growth, protect local resources, and ensure sustainable development. These codes provide a framework for balancing the competing needs of economic development and community well-being. In rural communities like Lincoln County, Idaho, where large portions of the county are federally managed public lands, and there is limited area to create tax revenue centers to support its infrastructure, land use codes can be particularly important. In addition, as communities evolve over time, it is important to update these codes to remain both effective and meet the current community needs. Lincoln County is actively working to update some of its land use codes to better serve its community and provide a clearer framework for local livestock producers.

In 2023, our planners and engineers at AGPROfessionals worked on a project for a client in Lincoln County. As a part of advocating on our client’s behalf, we contacted the county Planning and Zoning Department and spoke to Norma Anaya, the Planning and Zoning Administrator, to explore ways to address the challenges they were facing. During our conversation with her, we learned that the county was considering revising its codes for livestock production (Confined Animal Feeding Operation – CAFO Code), which had not been updated in over 20 years. There were some initial discussions last year and an open meeting to discuss possible changes to the CAFO Code, as well as discussions around their comprehensive plan. At that time, we offered our assistance, and when the time came over a year later, Norma reached out to us asking if we would be a part of the county work sessions to discuss the revisions to the code.

Work Sessions

Over the last six weeks, we have participated in the county work sessions with local community members and county staff. We have been engaging in collaborative workshops to review the existing codes that impact large modern farms (CAFOs) in the county, including dairies, feedlots, and other forms of livestock production, and providing feedback on their proposed changes.

We provided the following guidance and proposed solutions:

• Provided information about regulations in other counties in Southern Idaho.
• Shared information about what has worked well in other areas.
• Guided county staff, board of county commissioners, and other attendees to find solutions and identify best practices to help existing businesses grow and attract new ones to the community.
• Uncovered barriers to business growth by recommending the removal of buffer zones and instead relying on setbacks to protect neighboring properties. This aids property owners when expanding their businesses.
• Provided language for grandfathering in existing producer facilities.
• Provided feedback on definitions and map requirements.

Updated County Code

Currently, Lincoln County has a working draft of the code changes for CAFOs that have been expanded to meet the demands of modern-day agricultural producers. Amendments to the ordinance are drafted and include updates for the following:

• Purpose, interpretation, and enactment of the revised codes
• Definitions
• Provisions for administration
• Considered existing operations
• Defined zoning classifications
• Siting permits and applications as well as siting permits and issuance of siting certificates
• A framework for notice requirements, hearing procedures, and appeal process
• Enforcement
• Identified an effective date

Positive Outcomes

We anticipate that these changes will result in an overall positive outcome for livestock businesses and the community in Lincoln County. The proposed amendments will benefit all producers, from dairies and feedlots to other forms of livestock production, by allowing for the possible expansion of existing facilities and the potential for new operations to be sited in the county.

Upcoming Public Hearing

The next step in this process is a public hearing in Lincoln County. The hearing is set to be heard by the Board of County Commissioners on December 16th at 2:00 p.m. In addition to the Confined Animal Feeding Operations ordinance changes, the Board will also be acting on the new Agricultural Protection Areas Ordinance. The Board will also take public input on the ordinance changes.

A copy of the ordinances proposed are available at the Lincoln County Clerk’s Office.

Any person may attend the hearing and address the Lincoln County commissioners. Testimony is limited to three (3) minutes, and written testimony may be mailed to the courthouse to the attention of Norma Anaya or submitted via email to pz@lincolncountyid.gov, or by calling 208-886-7641.

Staying Informed and Engaged in Future Code Changes

Staying on top of code changes in your area is vital to ensure your operations remain compliant and sustainable. It is equally important to actively engage in the regulatory process to help government officials understand the potential impacts on your business and the local community. By maintaining regular communication with planning and zoning administrators, attending public hearings, and participating in work sessions, you can provide valuable insights and advocate for solutions that support both agricultural innovation and community well-being. To stay informed, check county websites and local newspapers regularly and sign up for email announcements or newsletters, if available, as these are the best sources for public notices about proposed code changes. Proactive involvement protects your interests and contributes to a more balanced and informed decision-making process.

Information about Idaho's new Agricultural Protection Areas HERE