Resident complains of large bee presence near flume; commissioners refer matter to Idaho Department of Agriculture

Resident Sarah Bateman addressed the Franklin County Commissioners on April 27 about concerns with large numbers of bees near her property by the flume. Bateman said the bees are "affecting their quality of life, preventing use of their property, and causing issues with watering livestock," and requested regulations on hive numbers and water sources.

Bee owner Dave Jeppsen told commissioners the number of hives in the area had not increased and explained the location is used to stage hives in winter before moving them throughout surrounding counties; he said many hives would be moved within the next few weeks. Chair Robert Swainston advised that the Idaho Department of Agriculture oversees bee regulations and recommended additional follow-up with that agency. The commissioners said they would continue to study the matter further.

No regulatory action was taken at the meeting; the board recorded the comment and suggested the resident seek guidance from the Idaho Department of Agriculture and county staff would continue to monitor the issue.