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 One of spring's greatest gifts is it's the season of renewal, and here in Idaho we're reminded that our state blooms because of its people, communities and partnerships. What we know for certain is that growth flourishes when people come together. At U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD) in Idaho, we continue our commitment to helping rural Idaho communities grow stronger. In this spring edition, we highlight investments across our state, ongoing projects, partnerships, and collaborations that illustrate our mission: Together, America Prospers.
Table of Contents
Idaho State Director Message
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Growing up in a rural community taught me the value of helping people. Each USDA Rural Development investment supports communities across Idaho, and that spirit of service is reflected in every project we undertake. It’s an honor to see these efforts creating lasting benefits for our neighbors and the people who call Idaho home. - Rick D. Youngblood |
USDA Rural Development investments are helping Idaho communities expand by investing in clean water and waste systems, expanding broadband access in remote areas, and supporting small businesses through loan and grant programs. These efforts improve public health and ensure a better quality of life for rural families now and for future generations.
 Community Facilities Program Investments
USDA’s Community Facilities Programs offer direct loans, loan guarantees, and grants for public service buildings to improve the quality of life, develop, and sustain rural America. USDA’s financial support enhances the competitiveness of our rural communities to attract and retain businesses that provide employment and services for residents. The program also funds projects that provide essential health care, education, public safety, and other civic services. Examples include fire and rescue stations, health care facilities and rehab centers, adult and childcare centers, assisted living facilities, town halls, and libraries. Financing may also cover costs for land acquisition, professional fees, and equipment.
College of Southern Idaho LeRoy Craig Jerome Center
 Jerome, ID - The College of Southern Idaho’s new LeRoy Craig Jerome Center is rising. A 20,000‑square‑foot facility honors longtime CSI Board of Trustees member LeRoy Craig and represents a significant investment in the community and its future workforce. Through a USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Program investment of $3.3 million in grant and additional funding from partners, this educational center will feature classrooms, labs and industrial training space to support regional workforce needs, including Idaho’s farms, food processors and health systems. It will also become the new home of the Food Processing Technology Program, further strengthening CSI’s role as a workforce development hub in the Magic Valley. A ribbon‑cutting ceremony is planned for August 2026 to celebrate this milestone with the community. More event details will be shared as the date approaches.
McCammon Fire Station
McCammon, ID – The City of McCammon completed its new Fire Station and Ambulance Bay in the summer of 2025. The 12,000-square-foot facility now houses fire and EMS crews, serves as a Bannock County Sheriff’s Office substation, provides space for city offices, and functions as a command center during natural disasters or major emergency event. Made possible through a USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Program investment of a $1.29 million loan and a $813,750 grant. Additional support included a $500,000 from the Idaho Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant, along with contributions from several other partners. These combined investments strengthened emergency response capacity and enhances the safety and well being of residents in Bannock County and surround communities.
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Water and Environmental Program Investments
Water plays a critical role in every aspect of daily life. From providing safe drinking water and sanitary waste disposal to supporting the livelihoods of farmers and ranchers and protecting the health of rural families and communities. USDA Rural Development (RD) Water and Environmental Programs (WEP) offer funding and technical assistance to help towns plan, build, and maintain modern systems that support growth, reduce contamination, and ensure reliable service, including during disaster recovery. Investing in water infrastructure across rural Idaho is more important than ever to help strengthen communities and build long-term resilience.
The City of Juliaetta
 Juliaetta, ID – The City of Juliaetta in Latah County was named after the first postmaster’s two daughters, Julia and Etta in 1882. Ten years later, when the railroad was extended from the Lewiston area, the community officially incorporated. The city’s wastewater treatment plant, built in 1977, needed significant upgrades for many years. Through a USDA Rural Development Water & Environmental - Water & Waste Disposal Program, investment of $750,000 in loan and $7,913,413 in grant supported a rural community in need. Juliaetta also faced strict temperature‑compliance requirements that required the installation of chillers, a costly but necessary upgrade on this project.
 Eastern Idaho Regional Solid Waste District
 Newdale, ID - The Eastern Idaho Regional Solid Waste District (EIRSWD), established in June 2010, provides waste disposal, transfer, and recycling services to approximately 79,000 residents across Madison, Fremont, Clark, and Teton Counties. Covering a 4,585‑square‑mile service area, the district is officially completed. This new 970-acre landfill is a significant infrastructure in Newdale, just east of Rexburg. Through a USDA Rural Development Water & Environmental Program investment of $29.7 million in loan, and contributions from partners, this project enabled critical upgrades to the district’s waste handling and disposal infrastructure, improving capacity, safety, and operational efficiency supporting long‑term environmental stewardship across the region. An open house was hosted on May 12 to share the completed regional landfill project. View the East Idaho News article.
 The City of Cascade
 Cascade, ID - The City of Cascade is moving forward with major upgrades to its aging water system. With support from USDA Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program, investment of $3,979,000 in loan and $526,000 in grant, paired with a $500,000 Idaho Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant, this support will help the rural town replace outdated infrastructure and improve long‑term water reliability. RD Idaho Director Rick Youngblood, Western Area Director Noe Ramirez joined Mayor Judith Nissula and the Public Works team for an overview of Cascade’s drinking water and wastewater systems, including tours of existing and new wells, storage tanks and planned bond projects. Cascade’s system, first built in 1917 and later expanded with groundwater wells and storage tanks, has required steady repairs over the years. The Public Works team led by Supervisor Jason Metz and longtime staff member Steve Yamamoto continues efforts to modernize operations. City leaders say the new upgrades, including digital meters, hydrants and new distribution lines, will help ensure dependable access to clean drinking water for the community.
The City of Yellow Pine
Yellow Pine, ID - Nestled at nearly 5,000 feet in elevation and surrounded by National Forests, the City of Yellow Pine is a small, rural community in Valley County with deep roots in Idaho’s mining history. Established in the early 1900's in the rugged central backcountry, for years, the town has faced challenges maintaining a reliable water system due to aging infrastructure and damage from natural events.
Through a Water and Environmental - Emergency Community Water Assistance Grant (ECWAG) Program investment, Yellow Pine Water Users Association was awarded $137,000 in grant to repair damage caused by the 2020 earthquake. The funding will support critical repairs to the town’s water distribution lines, significantly reducing excessive leakage and marking the first step toward bringing the system back into compliance. In addition, Yellow Pine Water Users Association was awarded $1 million in grant through the ECWAG program to construct a new water treatment plant. The existing plant is inoperable and incapable of producing safe drinking water, and the costs associated with constructing on the existing site are excessive due to its remote accessibility and lack of suitable land.
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 Riverside Water and Sewer District
Orofino, ID - The Riverside Water and Sewer District (RWSD) in Clearwater County has completed key upgrades to address sanitation challenges and support both current and future residents in north‑central Idaho. Through the USDA Rural Development Water & Environmental - Water & Waste Disposal Program, an investment of $1.3 million in loan supported replacement of an outdated pump station that contributed to wastewater overflows. The project also expanded the chlorine treatment area to improve disinfection and included dredging the lagoon to restore its wastewater treatment capacity. The improvements benefit nearly 1,800 residents in rural Orofino, helping protect public health and strengthen local infrastructure for years to come.
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 The City of Preston
 Preston, ID - The City of Preston's wastewater project focuses on enhancing its aging wastewater treatment and collection system. Through the USDA Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program, investment of $32 million in loan and $16 million in grant supports the planned improvements. Preston’s wastewater treatment plant was built in 1964 and last updated in 1989. The new project includes construction of an oxidation ditch treatment plant, upgraded headworks, added equalization storage, tertiary treatment to remove phosphorus, and improvements to the UV system and sludge dewatering. It also replaces the most deteriorated sections of the wastewater collection system.
Additional Water and Environmental Investments in 2026
Water Improvements:
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Cascade in Valley County received a $3.98 million loan and a $526,000 grant
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Hagerman in Gooding County received a $4.8 million loan and an $800,000 grant
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Hollister in Twin Falls County received a $40,000 grant
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Shelley in Bingham County received a $14 million loan
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Priest River in Bonner County received a $45,000 grant
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Cedar Springs Community Water Inc. in Bonner County received a $40,000 grant
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Swan Lake Culinary Water Company in Bannock County received a $25,000 grant
Waste Water Improvements:
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Elk River in Clearwater County received a $600,000 loan and a $1.92 million grant
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Kooskia in Idaho County received an $875,000 loan and a $1.96 million grant
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Parma in Canyon County received $3.88 million loan and a $3.18 million grant
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Pierce in Clearwater County received a $1.37 million grant
Timber Production Expansion Program Investment
USDA RD continues to stay actively engaged across rural communities, connecting with partners, community leaders, and participating in key events that support the programs and projects that help strengthen the west region.
USDA RD Director of State Operations Shares Mission to Strengthen Rural Communities and Link National Priorities to Local Outcome
 Pasco, WA – At the Federal Partners Coalition event, USDA Rural Development Director of State Operations David Matthews spoke about how federal programs link national priorities to meaningful state and local impact. USDA RD State Directors and leaders from multiple federal agencies gathered to strengthen collaboration, share regional priorities, and coordinate support for communities across the West. The event underscored the importance of cross‑agency partnership in delivering federal services efficiently and effectively. Photo below – Western State Directors (left to right): USDA RD State Director James Carmack (Oregon), Rick D. Youngblood (Idaho), Kirk Pearson (Washington), James Barham (Acting Chief Innovation Officer, and Bill Warden (Montana).
 Unnamed Aircraft System Accelerator
Pendleton, OR - USDA Rural Development Director of State Operations David Matthews, Oregon State Director James Carmack, and Idaho State Director Rick Youngblood visited the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Accelerator, a nonprofit supporting emerging UAS and robotics technologies. The visit included a meeting with the Accelerator team and a tour of the Pendleton UAS Test Range, highlighting ongoing efforts to advance innovation in unmanned and autonomous systems. The Oregon UAS Accelerator supports the growth of next‑generation aircraft and robotics technology by assisting startups from across the region. Each year, 25 to 27 companies participate in a program that blends online coursework, in‑person events, expert mentoring, and hands‑on flight testing at the Pendleton UAS Test Range. The initiative aims to strengthen Oregon’s leadership in UAS innovation, expand economic opportunities, and foster new industry partnerships. It also prioritizes supporting founders from rural, diverse, and underserved communities while advancing technology that serves the broader public good.
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Connecting with Our Neighboring Rural Leaders
 Pendelton, OR - USDA Rural Development Director of State Operations David Matthews, along with the Oregon and Idaho State Directors, met with Wallowa County Commissioner Lisa Collier, Union County Commissioner Paul Anderes, and Wallowa Recourses Executive Director Nils Christoffersen to discuss needs and priorities across their respective rural communities. We appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from local leaders about the challenges their counties are facing, as well as the opportunities they see for strengthening rural infrastructure, expanding timber production, improving housing, and supporting overall community development. The conversations reinforced our collective commitment to supporting rural communities and working together across state lines to ensure resources and programs align with the needs of those we serve.
2026 Western Idaho Ag Expo
 Caldwell, ID - The Western Idaho Ag Expo brought farmers, ranchers and industry leaders together in Nampa this week for two days of exhibits, education and networking. Held at the Ford Idaho Center, the event showcased the latest in agricultural technology, equipment and services from regional, and national vendors. Producers from across Idaho attended workshops on water management, crop innovation and workforce trends, while students explored career opportunities in agriculture. Organizers say the expo continues to serve as a key gathering point for the state’s ag community, offering a place to connect, share ideas and learn about tools that support productivity. The annual event is hosted each winter to highlight advancements shaping the future of Idaho agriculture.
Governor's Awards for Excellence in Agriculture
 Boise, ID - Director Youngblood attended the 31st Annual Idaho Governor’s Awards for Excellence in Agriculture, joining state leaders, producers, and partners from across Idaho to celebrate outstanding contributions to the state’s agricultural community. The event recognized individuals and organizations whose work strengthens Idaho’s agricultural economy, supports innovation, and preserves the state’s long‑standing farming and ranching traditions. The Director’s participation underscored our continued commitment to supporting Idaho’s producers and collaborating with partners dedicated to the success of agriculture throughout the region.
National FFA Association Day on the Hill
 Boise, ID - Great day with students and young professionals at the NWACC/FFA Cenarrusa Day on the Hill in Boise. USDA RD Idaho State Director Youngblood enjoyed connecting with FFA members from the Homedale chapter, educators and agricultural leaders as we celebrated Idaho’s strong ag industry and the next generation shaping its future. Founded in 1928 as the Future Farmers of America, FFA has grown into a national youth organization dedicated to leadership, career success and agricultural education, with Idaho chapters playing an important role in that legacy.
Nampa Chamber of Commerce - Ag Forum
 Nampa, ID - Agriculture Forums in Idaho provide a platform for producers, industry partners, and community leaders to engage directly with state and federal agencies on issues that matter to rural communities. These forums help identify emerging challenges, share updates on programs and resources, and gather on‑the‑ground feedback to inform policy and decision‑making. By bringing stakeholders together in a collaborative setting, Ag Forums strengthen communication, support transparency, and ensure Idaho’s agricultural priorities are accurately represented and understood.
 Panhandle Area Council
 Hayden, ID - USDA Rural Development met with partners at the Panhandle Area Council (PAC) during a recent north Idaho tour. The nonprofit economic development group serves Idaho’s five northern counties, offering business financing, small‑business support, grant administration, and regional planning. Founded in the early 1970s, the council also operates a business incubator and works with local governments, agencies, and private industry to support job creation and long‑term economic growth across the region. Left to right: Shaun Wooley, loan officer; Josh Wise, economic development specialist; and Wally Jacobson, executive director.
Clearwater Economic Development Association
Lewiston, ID - USDA Rural Development’s Idaho State Director and staff met with the Clearwater Economic Development Association, the economic development district for north‑central Idaho. The “small but mighty” nonprofit serves Clearwater, Latah, Lewis, Idaho, and Nez Perce counties, and also provides business financing in eastern Washington. CEDA helps community leaders and small businesses access planning resources, grants, public‑infrastructure support, technical assistance, and lending opportunities. Founded in 1967, CEDA is the oldest continuously operating economic development district west of the Mississippi and remains focused on strengthening regional economies and expanding community prosperity. Thank you to Executive Director Dodd Snodgrass, Business Finance Specialist Randy Lybyer, and Office Administrator/Loan Assistant Susan Elliott for hosting our visit.
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Idaho Rural Water Association
Boise, ID - USDA Rural Development Idaho and the Idaho Rural Water Association (IRWA) maintain a strong and collaborative partnership focused on improving water and wastewater systems across rural Idaho. Through significant financial investments, USDA Rural Development has provided hundreds of millions of dollars in loans and grants to help communities upgrade aging infrastructure, while IRWA delivers essential technical assistance, training, and regulatory support for system operators statewide. This teamwork has strengthened public health protections, enhanced operational capacity for small utilities, and ensured rural communities have access to safe, reliable water. The partnership was recognized at IRWA’s 2025 Spring Conference, where USDA Rural Development received the Friend of Idaho Rural Water Award for its outstanding support and commitment to Idaho's rural water systems.
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Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce
Meridian, ID - Idaho State Director was honored to attend the Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce Annual Champions of Freedom Awards, celebrating the Chamber’s impact and USDA RD partnership in serving Idaho veterans. The event spotlighted community leaders and organizations advancing housing, workforce, education, entrepreneurship and wellness initiatives. Founded in August 2020 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Chamber serves as a navigation hub for veterans and military families across Idaho, helping them access key resources and build sustainable connections.
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U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development offers many programs focused on supporting rural America. Below are some of the opportunities available.
 Funding Opportunities for Infrastructure
Community Facilities Guaranteed Loan Program
Electric Infrastructure Loan & Loan Guarantee Program
Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program
Water & Waste Disposal Loan Guarantees
Competitive Affordable Housing Program (AHP)
Funding Opportunities Supporting Community and Economic Development
Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan
Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant Programs
Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program
Timber Production and Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program (TPEP)
Targeted Technical Assistance for Rural Hospitals Program
Funding Opportunities for Tribal Communities
USDA Rural Development is committed to working with Tribes. Our Tribal Relations Team supports this work by honoring government‑to‑government relationships and expanding access to RD programs.USDA Rural Development’s Tribal Relations web page
Grants for Rural and Native Alaskan Villages
Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants to Alleviate Health Risks on Tribal Lands
Unleashing Tribal Energy Development
Western Idaho Area Director Graduates from Leadership Idaho Agriculture
 Boise, ID - Congratulations to our Western Area Director Noe Ramirez on graduating from Leadership Idaho Agriculture Class 46! Leadership Idaho Agriculture (LIA) is a premier professional development program that has been cultivating leaders in Idaho’s agricultural and rural communities since 1985. Each year, participants are selected from across the state to take part in an intensive, four‑session leadership experience focused on industry knowledge, public policy, communication, and community engagement. Class 46 continued this strong tradition, bringing together leaders from farms, agribusiness, and public service to build skills, strengthen connections, and deepen their understanding of the issues shaping Idaho agriculture. We’re proud of Noe's hard work and dedication throughout the program, and we look forward to the leadership and insight he brings back to USDA Rural Development in Idaho and the communities we serve. Photo (right to let): USDA Rural Development Idaho State Director and Western Idaho Area Director
Northern Idaho Area Director is Retiring After a 28-Year Career
 Coeur d'Alene, ID - We thank you Howard for your leadership and commitment to RD Idaho. May the dedication you've shown to rural communities, and the care you've given to others over the years, return to you tenfold. We wish you an incredible retirement. Howard's last day will be May 31, 2026.
 USDA Income and Property Eligibility Site- This site is used to evaluate the likelihood that a potential applicant would be eligible for program assistance. In order to be eligible for many USDA loans, household income must meet certain guidelines. Also, the home to be purchased must be located in an eligible rural area as defined by USDA
New RD Program Eligibility Mapping Tool: The new RD Eligibility Mapping Tool has been integrated into RD’s Eligibility site. This site now directs users to the RD Eligibility Mapping Tool for the following programs: Rural Business-Cooperative Services, Community Facilities, Water and Environmental Programs, Electric, and OneRD Guarantee.
Rural Data Gateway's Lender Lens–The Lender Lens is a series of data visualizations that enhance transparency and visibility into the USDA's Commercial Guaranteed Loan portfolio.
The My RD Loan Portal is live and provides a secure website for borrowers to make online payments and manage their Single Family Housing home loans! Borrowers now can pay and self-service their USDA home loan through the portal, eliminating the need to call the Servicing Office and facilitating a faster repayment. Borrowers are required to register for access.
  Connecting with our rural communities through social media helps to digitally provide the latest news and updates on USDA Rural Development programs, investments, project stories and more. Follow us on the following platforms: X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Flickr Photos.
 To update your subscriber preferences, visit the USDA Rural Development subscriber page.
To explore programs by area, visit our Idaho webpage at: www.rd.usda.gov/id.
Our Idaho Offices are located in Coeur d’Alene (North Idaho), Boise (South Idaho), Caldwell (West Idaho), Twin Falls (Central Idaho), and Blackfoot (East Idaho).
Questions? Contact U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development
Idaho Public Affairs Officer Angelina Rios
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