Idaho Agriculture Hits Record High, But 2026 Raises Concerns
Idaho agriculture reached a record $12.1 billion in cash receipts in 2025, driven largely by a booming cattle industry that surpassed dairy for the first time in more than two decades. But experts warn 2026 could be more challenging. Rising input costs, tariffs, trade uncertainty, hot and dry weather, and low snowpack are expected to pressure crops like potatoes, sugar beets, and wheat, potentially tightening margins for many producers.
Windstorm Severely Injures Two Children Waiting for School Bus
A powerful windstorm caused a tree to fall on Viviana and Porter French as they waited for a school bus in Twin Falls County. Both were critically injured and rushed to the hospital. A GoFundMe says Porter suffered multiple broken bones and faces a long recovery, while Viviana has serious head injuries but is alert and communicating. Nearly $38,000 has been raised so far to help cover medical expenses.
I-84 Exit 208 Off-Ramp Closing Monday Night
Drivers should plan ahead Monday night as the eastbound I-84 off-ramp at Exit 208 closes from 6 p.m. Monday to 8 a.m. Tuesday for construction. Crews will be installing new bridge girders, and traffic will be detoured through Exit 211 to reach Exit 208.
High Line Canal Lining Project Begins
The Twin Falls Canal Company has started a multi-year efficiency project on the High Line Canal. More than nine miles of canal will be lined over the next five to eight years to reduce water loss from seepage. Backed by $26 million in funding from the Idaho Water Resource Board, officials say the project will improve water reliability for farmers and strengthen long-term agricultural production.
Wilder ICE Raid: Deportations and Releases Continue
Two months after an FBI and ICE raid tied to an alleged illegal gambling operation in Wilder, attorneys say about 75 undocumented immigrants have been deported, while 26 have been released from custody. More than 100 people were detained in the raid. Attorneys say many had no criminal history and were released after judges reviewed their detention, though several immigration cases remain unresolved.
Former Idaho American Legion Leader Indicted on Fraud Charges
A federal grand jury in Boise has indicted 56-year-old Charles Abrahamson of Florida on wire fraud and tax fraud charges tied to an Idaho veterans nonprofit. Prosecutors allege the former Idaho American Legion leader misused more than $1.4 million for personal expenses and filed false tax returns. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
Mountain Home Man Sentenced in Payroll Fraud Case
A Mountain Home man has been sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for wire fraud. Prosecutors say 35-year-old Javier Ruiz stole more than $685,000 from his employer by manipulating payroll records. He was also ordered to pay full restitution.
Buhl Dominates Wood River in Holiday Break Finale
The Buhl Indians were unstoppable, rolling past Wood River 78–32. After an early tie, Buhl exploded on a 30–0 first-quarter run, missing just one shot in the opening frame. Tate Trevino led the way as the Indians head into the holiday break before returning January 3rd against Fruitland.
Idaho State Men Pull Away from Montana Western
Idaho State men’s basketball used rebounding and inside scoring to defeat Montana Western 80–67 at Reed Gym. The Bengals dominated the paint 32–12, improved to 7–5, and were led by Connor Hollenbeck’s 18 points. ISU hosts UC Davis Sunday afternoon.
Boise State Opens Mountain West Play at Nevada
Boise State men’s basketball opens Mountain West conference play Saturday night at Nevada. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. Mountain Time. The Broncos have won four of the last five meetings, and a win would make Leon Rice the winningest regular-season coach in Mountain West history.
Weather: Wet, Windy, and Staying Active
Rain continues today with highs near 55 and gusts up to 35 miles per hour. Rain mixes with snow overnight, with little accumulation expected. Saturday turns cooler and partly sunny near 43, but rain chances return Sunday and linger into Christmas Day.
- Friday’s Local and State news - December 19, 2025
- Trump signs executive order easing marijuana restrictions by reclassifying drug - December 18, 2025
- Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family dead in small plane crash in North Carolina: Officials - December 18, 2025
