Idaho Geological Survey Seeks Funds for Landslide Research

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — State geologists are asking lawmakers to fund more research of landslide hazards so they can make changes to Idaho's landslide inventory, which hasn't been updated in over two decades.

The Lewiston Tribune reports that Idaho Geological Survey Director Michael "Ed" Ratchford presented the survey's 2017 budget proposal to state legislators in January. The proposal includes nearly $193,000 for a geological hazard staff position and about $92,000 for a geographic information system analyst position. Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter has recommended approval for both requests.

Ratchford says studying Idaho's landslide and seismic hazards has been challenging with only 12 staff members for the entire state. The additional staff would identify landslide hazards and classify them as low-, moderate- or high-risk. Ratchford says that information could help to prevent and mitigate slides.