On November 1st and continuing until April 30th, all cloud seeding operations authorized by the Idaho Water Resource Board, and as directed by Idaho Code § 42-4301, have kicked off in several Idaho basins.   

Visit the IWRB’s new and improved Cloud Seeding Program webpage for more information on cloud seeding and cloud seeding operations in Idaho. 

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) announced on September 24, 2024 that quagga mussels have been identified in the Twin Falls area of the Snake River.

On October 8, ISDA and contractors will begin a 10-day comprehensive treatment to eradicate the invasive quaggas. Treatment will occur in the Snake River, downstream from Hansen Bridge to Centennial Waterfront Park. 

For more information, visit ISDA’s Snake River Quagga Overview and News and Updates webpages. 

Information and resources regarding the Surface Water Coalition (SWC) Delivery Call can be viewed here: 2024 Surface Water Coalition Delivery Call. 

Orders and filings under Docket No. CM-DC-2010-001 of the SWC Delivery call can be viewed here: Surface Water Coalition Delivery Call | Docket No. CM-DC-2010-001 

The Department is reviewing its administrative rules, consistent with the Governor’s Zero Based Regulation, Executive Order 2020-01. For more information visit, IDWR’s Rulemaking page or follow the links below for specific rulemaking activities.

2024/2025 Rulemaking

Fall 2024 Release

The Fall release of Priest Lake will begin on October 1, 2024. On that date, the lake will be lowered below 3.0 feet.  Please plan accordingly.

Throughout the year, IDWR posts updates on Priest Lake water levels and outlet dam operations. To view the April update on Priest Lake, visit IDWR’s Lake Management page.

In January, the USGS and IDWR completed the Treasure Valley Flow Model depicting how groundwater flows in the aquifers beneath the Treasure Valley. The model is available for the public to use on the USGS’s website.

For more information, see IDWR’s Treasure Valley Groundwater Flow Model page and Information Brief.

IDWR receives many questions regarding the management of groundwater resources in the state, including domestic wells. To help answer those questions and more, IDWR compiled this Groundwater Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document.

IDWR is sending out commencement notices for the Bear River Basin Adjudication in 5 mailing groups through 2023/2024.

• File Online – The new online portal to file an Adjudication Claim or submit a Water Right Application for Permit is now available. Printable forms are available here.

For more information, see the Bear River Basin Adjudication Brochure.