Category: kifi-local-news

Seth Ratliff

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — With November’s midterm elections fast approaching, Idaho state leaders are joining a nationwide push to get voters ready for the polls.

Tuesday, September 15 marks National Voter Registration Day, a nonpartisan national event encouraging voters to participate in the civic process. In a joint proclamation released Monday, Gov. Brad Little and Secretary of State Phil McGrane encouraged residents to check their voter status, review registration requirements, and note key deadlines ahead of the Nov. 3 Election.

“I encourage all Idahoans to make a plan to vote in the upcoming November 3rd General Election,” said Secretary of State Phil McGrane. “That starts with making sure you are registered and that your registration is up to date with your current name and address. I appreciate Governor Little joining us in encouraging Idahoans across our state to get registered, get informed, and be ready to vote.”

Little echoed the importance of community involvement in the proclamation, calling on media outlets and civic organizations to help raise awareness and encourage maximum voter turnout across the state.

How to Register in Idaho

To register to vote in Idaho, you must be:

Be a U.S. citizen Be a resident of Idaho Be at least 18 years old by Election Day

The deadline to register online at VoteIdaho.gov for the Nov. 3 election is Friday, Oct. 23. Idahoans who miss the online deadline can still register in person during early voting or at their polling place on Election Day.

To register to vote, check or update your voter registration, or for additional election information, click HERE.

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Curtis Jackson

MCCAMMON, Idaho (KIFI) – Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 15, the Idaho Transportation Department will repave U.S. Highway 30 east of McCammon from the junction of Old Highway 91 to Topaz Road. 

Courtesy: ITD

For the next three weeks, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction. Motorists should also expect flagging at the entrances to US-30 and reduced speed limits.

This project is part of ITD’s ongoing priority to maintain Idaho’s existing transportation system. They say regular maintenance helps pavement reach its full lifespan protecting and extending the life of the roadway, delaying the need for full replacement.

Drivers are encouraged to plan extra time when traveling through the area and check 511.idaho.gov or the 511 mobile app for the latest updates.

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Seth Ratliff

YELLOWSTONE (KIFI) — Yellowstone National Park welcomes more than 4.5 million visitors a year, but high foot traffic along with powerful gusts of wind has led to a record-breaking cleanup effort. According to a recent newsletter from the U.S. Geological Survey, Yellowstone’s Geology team has already pulled thousands of lost and discarded items out of fragile hot springs, geysers, and mud pots in 2026.

Trash, lost belongings, and litter do far more than just spoil Yellowstone’s famous scenery. Yellowstone staff say the items can cause permanent ecological and physical damage to the park’s fragile hydrothermal features.

Items dropped into vents can clog water supplies, block runoff channels, or leach harmful chemicals and sediment into the water. In the 20th century, the famous Morning Glory Pool permanently shifted color as a result of trash and items thrown in by visitors

Today, trained Geology Program staff safely navigate these high-risk areas to retrieve debris alongside their regular duties of chemical monitoring and hazard assessment.

“As of early 2026, Yellowstone’s Geology team has removed more than 20,100 pieces of trash, 5,600 rocks and sticks, and over 280 hats from hydrothermal areas around the park—a record-setting year so far!” states the newsletter.

One major contributor to the cleanup was hats. In total, the USGS collected more than 280 hats from hydrothermal areas this season, which will be washed and donated to local organizations.

“Favorites this year include a FIFA 2026 Men’s World Cup hat, a baseball cap with “COWBOY HAT” on it, and a Roblox bucket hat from St. Kitts and Nevis,” states the USGS.

Frequent finds collected by the Yellowstone National Park Geology Team from hydrothermal areas during the summer season in 2026: National Park Service photo by Margery Price, September 2026.

Other unusual recoveries range from Invisalign retainers, fake nails, and floss picks to children’s toys, Polaroid photos depicting the springs themselves, Pokémon figurines, and a miniature copy of The Vampire Diaries.

“If you’re traveling through Yellowstone National Park, especially in hydrothermal areas, make sure to “stash your trash”—put wrappers, tissues, and other easily windblown items deep in your pockets, a bag, or, even better, a trash can! If you’re adventuring in a windy area, consider tightening or taking off your hat,” states the USGS.

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Curtis Jackson

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Palisades Ranger District of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest plans to begin a prescribed burn as part of the Fall Creek Aspen Improvement Project near Swan Valley during the week of Sept. 14. Crews aim to treat about 2,500 acres.

The project area is roughly 13 miles southwest of Swan Valley, between June Creek and Skyline Ridge roads near Beaver and Haskin creeks. Depending on weather conditions and how operations progress, ignitions could take several days to complete.

The main goal of the burn is to improve and restore aspen stands by reducing the spread of conifers and encouraging new aspen growth. The fire will also help reduce dead and downed vegetation on the forest floor that can contribute to future wildfires.

Officials say the project will also benefit wildlife by creating the conditions that support young mountain shrubs, willows, aspen, grasses and wildflowers, which typically thrive after a fire. Idaho Fish and Game and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation have supported the effort since 2008.

Residents and visitors may see smoke from Swan Valley and nearby areas during the burn. Some smoke and lingering fire activity could remain for several weeks, particularly until rain or snow arrives.

Anyone recreating in or near the area is encouraged to stay informed and use caution. For more information, contact the Palisades Ranger District at 208-523-1412.

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Kaelyn Blessinger

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – Idaho is one of the leading states in deaths by suicide. According to the CDC, it is the 7th leading cause of death in the state, just below stroke and above Diabetes.

Many mental health resources across the state, and even free hotlines nationwide, are here to support those in need.

“We are helping people at the lowest point when they’re in crisis,” Melissa Thyberg, the Vice President of EIRMC’s Behavioral Health Center, said. “Most of us have had our lives touched by mental health, or know somebody who has died by suicide, and it is critically important to me that we do our very best to support those who are need, that we take this seriously.”

Signs to look out for that someone is considering committing suicide are not uniform and could look very different from person to person. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention listed some characteristics to be on the look out for.

If a person talks about:

Killing themselves Feeling hopeless Having no reason to live Being a burden to others Feeling trapped Unbearable pain

Behaviors that may signal risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss or change:

Increased use of alcohol or drugs Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods Withdrawing from activities Isolating from family and friends Sleeping too much or too little Visiting or calling people to say goodbye Giving away prized possessions Aggression Fatigue

People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:

Depression Anxiety Loss of interest Irritability Humiliation/Shame Agitation/Anger Relief/Sudden Improvement

These are not uniform but if you notice these symptoms in a loved one, don’t hesitate to speak with them about suicidal thoughts.

“Ask somebody if they are having thoughts of suicide,” Thyberg said. “We used to think we shouldn’t talk about suicide because it could increase risk. That is that is not true.”

There are ways for those at risk to get help within their community.

“We’re just one step in that journey for people,” Thyberg said. “We are one part. So making sure that they have the resources in place when they leave our care to be successful. It takes the entire community to support somebody who is at risk for suicide.”

Here is a list of mental health support across the region as well as information on national services, such as the Suicide Hotline.

You can call or text the Suicide Hotline at 988. When you call or text you connect with a free, confidential network of trained crisis counselors who will provide emotional support. These are real, trained people here to support you.

Idaho Falls: Behavioral Health Center at EIRMC Community Suicide Prevention The Behavioral Health and Crisis Center Pocatello & Blackfoot: Bingham Crisis Center High Country Behavioral Health South East Idaho Behavioral Crisis Center Jackson: Mental Health & Recovery Resources St. Johns Health Wyoming Department of Health Rexburg & Rigby: East Idaho Mental Health Tuller Counseling Services

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Curtis Jackson

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (KIFI) — Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Cameron “Cam” Sholly will step down in late September after nearly eight years leading the park, the Department of the Interior announced on Friday.

Sholly will conclude nearly three decades of federal service to join the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation as chief operating officer.

Sholly has led Yellowstone since 2018, overseeing one of the National Park Service’s largest and most complex operations. During his tenure, the park put over $1.5 billion to work in conservation and infrastructure projects funded through President Trump’s Great American Outdoors Act and philanthropic support.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum praised Sholly’s service to the park system. “Cam is an exceptional leader who delivered extraordinary results for Yellowstone National Park and the American people,” Burgum said. “His dedicated leadership leaves Yellowstone stronger, safer and better prepared for the future. The Department thanks him for nearly 30 years of distinguished service to our treasured parks and country.”

Sholly reflected on his leadership of America’s first national park. “Serving as superintendent of Yellowstone has been the greatest professional honor of my life,” Sholly said. “Everything we accomplished was made possible by an extraordinary team of employees and partners who care deeply about this park. I look forward to joining the NFWF team and continuing important conservation work on a national scale.”

Under Sholly’s leadership, Yellowstone made historic investments in native fisheries, wildlife conservation, expanded tribal bison transfers and launched one of the largest public-private employee housing initiatives in Park Service history. He also managed operations through record visitation, the COVID-19 pandemic and historic 2022 flooding, after which crews reopened 93% of the park within 20 days and restored northern entrance access in less than four months.

Sholly began his Park Service career as a seasonal employee in Yellowstone in 1990. Prior to leading Yellowstone, he served as regional director for the Midwest Region, where he oversaw 61 national parks in 13 states and helped lead a $380 million public-private renovation of Gateway Arch National Park.

Sholly also served as associate director for visitor and resource protection, superintendent of Natchez Trace Parkway and chief of ranger operations at Yosemite National Park. A U.S. Army veteran who deployed during Operation Desert Storm, Sholly received the Presidential Rank Award and the Department of the Interior’s Meritorious Service Award during his career.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, where Sholly will serve as chief operating officer, was chartered by Congress in 1984 and operates as the nation’s largest conservation foundation.

The National Park Service will announce an interim superintendent separately. The agency has begun the process of selecting Yellowstone’s next permanent superintendent.

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Maile Sipraseuth

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI)– Diesel prices reach a record high in Idaho, with the average diesel price reaching $6.07 in the state, according to AAA.

For trucking companies, that means hundreds of extra dollars they must pay to stay on the road.

“It’s definitely getting more expensive. I just barely filled up, it was a little over $250 to just top off the tank so [it’s] getting pretty high,” Jace Lawson, a truck driver stopping in Idaho Falls for gas said.

These gas and diesel price hikes result from rising oil prices because of the conflict in Iran.

According to GasBuddy, the average gasoline price rose nearly 15 cents in the last week to $4.77. That’s 37 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and $1.29 higher than a year ago.

Regular gas prices in Bonneville County average $4.75 a gallon, while the highest prices are in Clark County are $5.49, according to AAA.

“Average gasoline and diesel prices rose in every state over the last week as geopolitical tensions escalated on multiple fronts, with friction between the U.S. and Iran, new hostilities in the Red Sea, and the shutdown of Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline all combining to jolt prices sharply higher,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. 

You can look at the latest gas prices locally here.

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News Release

The following is a news release from the City of Idaho Falls:

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — The Idaho Falls City Council has confirmed Mark Hagedorn’s appointment as director/treasurer of the city’s new Finance Department.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the City in this new role and to continue building on the foundation laid by our finance team,” Hagedorn said. “Our responsibility goes beyond managing the City’s finances — it’s about being good stewards of public resources, providing reliable information for decision-making, and helping departments effectively serve our community.”

City Council created the new Finance Department last Thursday and then confirmed Hagedorn’s appointment.

Hagedorn has worked for the City of Idaho Falls since 2012. He was previously the city treasurer/finance manager in the city’s Municipal Services Department since 2022. Hagedorn also previously served as the City Controller from 2016-2022, and the City’s Lead Accountant from 2012-2016.

Before joining the City, Hagedorn worked as a senior auditor for a public accounting firm in Arizona. Hagedorn has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Brigham Young University-Idaho.

“In his various roles, Mr. Hagedorn has demonstrated he has the experience and skills necessary to take on the additional responsibilities of the City’s chief financial officer, with a focus on overseeing the City’s overall financial strategy,” Mayor Lisa Burtenshaw said. “Mr. Hagedorn will be an asset as we continue our focus on accountability, transparency and financial sustainability within the City.”

In his new role, Hagedorn’s duties will include enhancing accounting policy and internal controls; certifying the accuracy of the City’s financial reports, identifying and managing financial risk, and providing high-level financial analysis and modeling to support City decision-making.

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Consumer Reports

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIVI) — Parents know how convenient packaged snacks can be for feeding hungry kids. But what’s actually in those products may go beyond what’s written on the label. A new Consumer Reports investigation found potentially harmful contaminants in some popular children’s snacks.

Earlier this summer, Consumer Reports testing found high levels of additives and contaminants in popular processed snack foods. Now, CR’s food safety scientists have taken a closer look specifically at snacks marketed to or commonly eaten by children.

Consumer Reports tested 21 packaged kids’ snacks and found that 14 had concerning levels of at least one chemical contaminant, including acrylamide or phthalates.

Acrylamide is a chemical that can form naturally in some foods during high-temperature cooking and processing. Certain health organizations consider it a probable human carcinogen based on animal studies. Consumer Reports found concerning levels of acrylamide in several types of snacks, including granola bars, chips, pretzels, and even graham crackers.

CR also tested for phthalates, chemicals that can migrate into food from packaging and other materials during manufacturing and processing. High exposure to certain phthalates has been linked to potential long-term health risks, including interference with the body’s natural hormones, and children’s developing bodies may be especially vulnerable.

Consumer Reports found concerning levels of phthalates in three products: Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies Original, Chocolate Chip Z Bars, and Slim Jim Mild Snack Size Sticks.

In a statement to Consumer Reports, the trade group Consumer Brands Association said, “Many of the substances highlighted in the report occur naturally in food, including fruits, vegetables and grains, or are formed during preparation.”

Consumer Reports’ Jessica D’Argenio Waller says some exposure to contaminants is unavoidable and parents can only control so much. Manufacturers and regulators, she says, also have a responsibility to reduce contaminants before foods reach store shelves.

There was some reassuring news. Seven of the products tested were below CR’s level of concern in all of its tests, including Pirate’s Booty cheese puffs, Welch’s fruit snacks, and Frigo string cheese.

For parents, Consumer Reports says moderation, variety, and awareness are key when it comes to processed foods. Try rotating snack choices rather than relying on the same product every day, and choose whole foods or homemade snacks whenever possible.

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Danielle Mullenix

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – Several downtown Idaho Falls businesses and residents are reporting damage following what appears to be a series of vandalism incidents over the weekend.

Photos and reports shared on social media show shattered business windows, destroyed potted plants scattered across sidewalks, and damaged streetlights in different areas of downtown. Some of the businesses affected include Great Harvest, Idaho Mountain Trade, Medical Recovery Services,  Smith Driscoll & Associates, and others. Now, several business owners and managers are seeking answers on what caused the downtown disturbance.

“It’s just frustrating,” Skyler Berry said, the marketing manager of Great Harvest Bakery and Cafe. The beloved spot suffered extensive damage to its potted plants outside the front doors. “We pay a lot of money to have Four Seasons potted…. I just hope that they are found, apologize, and make it right. They did a lot more damage to other downtown businesses, and so it’s more just hard to see your neighbors and, you know, downtown get destroyed.”

Daniel Bonney, manager of Idaho Mountain Trading, described the shock of seeing his store’s window displayed shattered as disappointing and deeply upsetting.

“I got a picture of it right away, and my stomach immediately was sick and very, very upset, as you can imagine,” Bonney said. “But we’ve been through this before. Unfortunately. And it would be nice if the person could pay for the damages, since this is, I think, the ninth broken window we’ve had since we’ve moved into this building.”

Photos Courtesy of Jayce Howell / Facebook

The full extent of the damage around downtown Idaho Falls is still unknown.

Local News 8 is working to confirm the official reports filed with the Idaho Falls Police Department, including when they can begin an active investigation into the damage and locate a suspect.

See Something? Say Something.

Jessica Clements with the Idaho Falls Police Department strongly encourages any downtown business owners with damage – regardless of extent – to file a report (services for filing online can be found here). Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity downtown over the weekend—or who has security camera footage, photographs, or other information that could help identify who may be responsible—is encouraged to report it to the Idaho Falls Police Department. Security camera footage, Clements emphasized, could help investigators quickly identify a suspect in the weekend’s vandalism.

The Idaho Falls Police Department’s non-emergency dispatch number is 208-529-1200.

Anyone witnessing a crime in progress or an emergency should call 911.

Local News 8 will continue working to learn more about the reported vandalism and will provide updates as additional information becomes available.

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