HB 910: Managing Recreation on Endowment Lands: Access vs. Development (2026)

Summary: Creates a new framework for developing fee-based “managed recreation opportunities” on state endowment lands through collaboration between IDL and IDPR.

ICL’s Position: Neutral

Current Bill Status: Committee - House Resources & Conservation

Issue Areas: Public Lands, Endowment Lands, Recreation

Bill Sponsor: Rep. Jerald Raymond (R-District 31)

House Bill 910 allows the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) and Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) to jointly develop and manage “managed recreation opportunities” on endowment lands. These are defined as specific, developed recreation sites, such as campgrounds, trail systems, or motorized recreation areas, and are explicitly intended to be fee-based.

Under this bill, IDPR would lead the design, operation, and maintenance of these sites, while IDL would ensure revenue generation for endowment beneficiaries by setting a required fee based on fair market value. IDPR would also be authorized to implement its own fees. Both agencies must approve site-specific development plans before projects move forward.

While the bill aims to expand and formalize recreation opportunities, it places a strong emphasis on developed recreation, which gives rise to concern. It also requires both agencies to take on new responsibilities without additional resources. At the same time, the potential for fee-based recreation and increased funding for managing recreation are positive components of the bill. 

Given these tradeoffs, we are neutral and will continue to monitor.