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; served six years in the Idaho House of Representatives; third-generation farm and ranch in Camas and Blaine counties producing organic hay and grain; spouse: Cheryl; children: Nancy, James, and Andrew; one granddaughter, Kaylea.