Head of Idaho think tank retires

Published 1:03 pm Wednesday, December 17, 2014

BOISE, Idaho — The head of an Idaho think tank charged with explaining complex natural resources to lawmakers for the past 25 years has retired.

Jay O’Laughlin says he took a risk becoming the director of the University of Idaho’s Policy Analysis Group in 1989, but agrees now that it was worth it. Back then, state lawmakers were unsure if they would continue funding the group long-term.

Over the years, O’Laughlin has provided insight on some of Idaho’s most divided issues. From federal management to species conservation, O’Laughlin has been tapped by the Idaho Legislature to offer information to help guide legislative decisions.

However, after braving the harsh winters in northern Idaho year after year, O’Laughlin says he’s looking forward to a warm retirement in sunny Florida.