Born in Wendell, Idaho; graduated from Camas County High School; B.S. in agricultural engineering from the University of Idaho; former member of Camas County Planning and Zoning; former Camas County Commissioner; graduate of Leadership Idaho Agriculture; past President of Idaho Association of Conservation Districts; past Secretary/Treasurer of the National Association of Conservation Districts; 3rd generation farm and ranch in Camas and Blaine Counties producing organic hay and grain; spouse: Cheryl; children: Nancy, James and Andrew.