Idaho Falls Region
The Idaho Falls Region in southeast Idaho is the second largest of DEQ's regions and includes the counties of Bonneville, Butte, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison, and Teton. It covers the second largest geographical area of DEQ's regions, with 21.1% of the total area of the state. For such a large region, only 12.6% of the state's total population resides here. The low population density is attributed to the vast areas of mountains located within the region. Also included in the region are the cities of Idaho Falls, Salmon, Challis, Arco, Rexburg, St. Anthony, and Driggs.
This region is well known for its central Idaho mining and upper Snake River Plain farming. Several active mines are found in this region, and much of the state's sugar beet, wheat, and potato crops are grown here. The area boasts many recreational opportunities as well, from rafting on the Salmon River, fishing at Island Park and the Henry's Fork, to skiing at Targhee near Driggs. The Idaho National Laboratory is the largest employer in the region; agriculture, mining, and tourism/recreation are also important economic forces.
Salmon Air Quality
Salmon’s air quality is impacted by intense smoke events from regional wildfires in the summer and by smoke from residential wood combustion and air stagnation in the winter. Learn more.
Salmon Basin Advisory Group
The Salmon Basin Advisory Group consists of 10 members appointed by the director to represent stakeholder groups from southeastern Idaho. The BAG meets periodically to advise DEQ on surface water issues throughout the region. Learn more.
Water Quality Plans & Reports
Subbasin assessments and surface water quality improvement plans have been developed for a number of water bodies in DEQ's Idaho Falls Region. In addition, numerous studies have been conducted of ground water resources in the area. Access the plans and reports here.