Wilder Study Shows Impact Barley Has On Idaho

What economic impact does the barley industry have on Idaho, and beyond? A new study paid for by the Idaho Barley Commission and conducted by two economists with ties to the Palouse looks to answer that question. Barley Commission Executive Director Laura Wilder said the study shows the industry supports almost 2,700 jobs in Idaho while contributing on average $274 million to the state's annual gross state product.

"That include direct contributions, indirect [contributions], business to business transactions and personal related household spending"

Wilder noted the study also showed the challenges of 2021. Not only was the barley industry still dealing with the pandemic, but drought conditions across the state, resulting in the loss of 550 jobs and revenue shortfalls. Wilder said potential growth opportunities was one of the reasons the Commission wanted the study.

"It really gives us accurate information to provide to lawmakers and other decision makers to help them understand the relevance of the industry to the state and help with their decision making processes."

The study also found that Idaho's barley acreage and production is typically stable and that the state is the national leader in terms of production.

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