04/19/06 Don Burtenshaw retires from legislature

Don Burtenshaw says someone younger needs to have the job and that's why he's not seeking a sixth term in the Idaho legislature in 2007. But don't think that this Jefferson County farmer-rancher is headed to the rocking chair; he's back working on the farm. A long time agriculture and Farm Bureau supporter what did Burtenshaw feel he accomplished during his decade in the legislature? BURTENSHAW "Formulate the CAFO rules and regulations to help the dairy industry continue to operate. The Nez Perce Agreement last year. One of the things I remember was the grass burning issue up north. I carried that legislation here and in fact it was ruled constitutional this last summer by the Supreme Court." And what advice would he give to his legislative replacement? BURTENSHAW "Don't commit yourself to anybody until you've heard both sides of the story." Burtenshaw and Frances Field, whom we profiled yesterday, are retiring as is Speaker of the House Bruce Newcomb, plus a new Governor coming after the November election, all part of what will be a new look Statehouse in 2007. Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott