The state of agriculture in Boundary, Bonner counties
2020 was arguably one of the most turbulent and eventful years of our existence. Throughout all the chaos of the world, one of the most steady and unwavering industries was production agriculture. As our nation dealt with the struggles of managing a global pandemic, American farmers and ranchers continued their steadfast duty in providing the food and fiber needed to keep this country going.
Agriculture is a steady pillar of the communities of North Idaho. According to the National Agriculture Statistics Service, agriculture generates about $30 million and $10 million annually to the economies of Boundary and Bonner counties, respectively. Both counties have a large sector of nursery, livestock, and hay / forage production; Boundary County also boasts the beautiful Kootenai River Valley, sometimes referred to as the “Nile of the West'' because of its fertile, sub-irrigated fields. This valley produces a wide variety of crops, including wheat, barley, chickpeas, canola, mustard, grass seed, and hay. It is also home to Elk Mountain Farms, which produces some of the most delicious hops for beer found anywhere in the world.
As with any industry, agriculture is faced with new challenges all the time. Increased input costs and tightened environmental restrictions are at the top of our current watch list. Also, the recent influx of people moving to North Idaho means that more residents will be unfamiliar with agriculture. We are hopeful that our newfound neighbors will recognize that this is ag and timber country. Sharing the road with log trucks, hay trucks, and farm equipment is a way of life around here, and the occasional dust, smoke, or manure smell is a necessary byproduct of these thriving industries.
Last November’s election brought us a new president, along with a Democrat–controlled Congress, which could have many implications for agriculture. It’s still too early to know exactly what this means for our industry, but early signs indicate more emphasis from the government on sustainability and environmentally friendly production practices. President Biden’s Secretary of Agriculture appointment, Tom Vilsack, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on February 23, 2021 by a vote of 92-7, with both Senators from Idaho voting in support of him. Vilsack is a familiar face to farmers as he previously served in the same role for all eight years of the Obama Administration. Vilsack’s team is currently meeting to determine their priorities, as well as appointments to run individual state USDA offices.
As we enter 2021, the only thing ag producers really know for sure is that we better be ready to adapt and continue to move forward regardless of what challenges and obstacles may come our way. Rest assured that the farmers and ranchers in our communities will continue to go to work for you every day to produce the food and fiber we all need to survive.
Ty Iverson farms around 3,000 acres throughout Boundary County with his family. His wife, Lisa, and son, Colton, both go to school at Mt. Hall Elementary, where Lisa serves as principal and Colton is in kindergarten. His mother, Tracy, is a retired Bonners Ferry High School English teacher, and his father, Tom, is a partner with Ty in the family farming operation. Iverson currently serves as a board member of the National Association of Wheat Growers, as well as secretary /treasurer of the Idaho Grain Producers Association. He also serves on the Boundary County Weed Board and the Boundary County Ambulance Board.