Good morning, Lewiston.

Residents near Palouse River were evacuated after a wildfire ignited near Giant White Pine Campground and Highway 6—officials restricted road access and urged people to use alternate routes so firefighters could work safely.

Wage growth in Kootenai County is significant—average annual wages have risen from just over $53,000 to nearly $56,000, compared to $34,000 in 2014.

This rise follows a positive trend seen in six of seven metro areas across Idaho.

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show Idaho's average wage increased by 5.1% to $28.10 per hour in 2024 and the median wage rose 5% to $22.34.

Six of seven regions posted wage gains—Southwestern Idaho had the highest hourly wages as state employment increased 2.7% to 844,910 with Boise adding 14,090 jobs.

Idaho Fish and Game will host two trapper education and two wolf trapper education classes this fall at its Lewiston office—3316 16th Street—to teach fur trapping basics, ethics, regulations and safety.

The mandatory classes are required for those obtaining first trapping licenses or wolf trapping licenses.

Idaho Fish and Game announced new deer hunting rules today in North Idaho as a response to chronic wasting disease found last year — all harvested whitetail deer in select zones must be tested within 10 days to help slow the spread.

Hunters of elk and moose are encouraged to test their game even though it is not required.

IDAHO state officials announced a new law that will require sales tax on services starting October 1—this change covers IT support, temporary staffing, custom websites and advertising.

The law also removes some exemptions on digital services and guidance will be issued later this month.

Idaho lawmakers formed a task force to study problems with the state’s child custody and domestic relations laws after receiving three hours of detailed public testimony from judges, parents, and experts.

The group will meet again Sept. 30 in Nampa to discuss recommendations that may help balance power between parents—especially regarding mediation and attorney fees.

The LC Mud Run marked its ninth season on September 1 and set a record by drawing 675 participants to complete a 3.3-mile race with 20 obstacles and a mini course for kids.

Local sponsors, volunteers and board members supported the event, with net proceeds donated to a local foster support program.