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13 Sep 2024
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Idaho
United States
11:20:48 PM
20 Nov 2024

Idaho Info

Abbreviation:
ID
State capital:
Boise
Population:
1,900,000
Largest city:
Boise (250,000)
State bird:
Mountain Bluebird
State flower:
Syringa (Mock Orange)
State tree:
Western White Pine

Local facts

  • Idaho is divided Pacific Time Zone (PT) and Mountain Standard Time (MST)
  • Idaho observes Daylight Saving Time
  • Major industries:

    Agriculture: Renowned for its agriculture, particularly its potato production. The fertile soil and climate make it an ideal location for growing potatoes, as well as other crops like wheat, barley, and hay.

    Mining: Has a strong mining industry, historically known for gold, silver, and other precious metals. Today, it also mines for phosphate, molybdenum, and other minerals.

    Technology and Innovation: Boise, the capital, is growing as a tech hub with a focus on software development, data centers, and technology startups.

    Forestry: The vast forests support a significant timber industry, producing lumber and wood products. The forests also offer recreational opportunities for tourism and outdoor activities.

    Tourism: With its picturesque mountains, national parks, and outdoor recreation opportunities, tourism plays a vital role in the economy, attracting visitors for activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.

  • Local trivia and geography:

    Geography: Located in the Pacific Northwest, bordered by Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. It is known for its rugged mountains, scenic rivers, and vast forests.

    Trivia: Famously known for producing more potatoes than any other state in the U.S. It is sometimes referred to as the “Potato State.”

    Natural Attractions: It is home to the Sawtooth Mountains, Shoshone Falls (sometimes called the 'Niagara of the West'), and parts of Yellowstone National Park, offering unique outdoor recreation opportunities.

  • Cultural insights:

    Outdoor Lifestyle: Outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and white-water rafting are central to life in Idaho. Its natural beauty influences much of its cultural identity.

    Potato Festivals: Celebrates its famous potato industry with events such as the Idaho Potato Drop, an annual New Year’s Eve celebration in Boise.

    Western Heritage: Has a strong Western heritage, reflected in its rodeos, cattle ranching traditions, and the annual Western Idaho Fair.

    Craft Beer: Known for its thriving craft beer scene, with breweries producing a wide range of craft ales and lagers, many of which are influenced by the state's agricultural products.

  • Historical context:

    Early Settlement: Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Nez Perce, Shoshone, and Bannock. The Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the area in the early 1800s.

    Statehood: Became the 43rd state in 1890. Its early economy was based on mining and agriculture, particularly after the discovery of gold in the Clearwater River.

    Mining Boom: In the late 19th century, the state experienced a mining boom, particularly in silver, which attracted many settlers to the region.

    Modern Growth: In the 20th century, Idaho transitioned from a mining economy to one based more on agriculture, forestry, and tourism. The growth of technology and innovation in Boise in recent years has further diversified the state’s economy.