Idaho Water Quality & Governance: Idaho DEQ is seeking a forestry representative for the Clearwater Basin Advisory Group, a citizen panel advising on water quality objectives and nonpoint source pollution priorities across north central Idaho (applications due July 17). Local Waste & Environment: Republic Services reopened the Sawtooth Regional Landfill in Elmore County, adding engineered cells and protective liners after a 2023 closure tied to violations. Wildfire Risk: A cold front is expected to bring dry lightning into the Intermountain West, followed by strong winds that could drive very high to extreme fire danger across the region, including Idaho. Plastic Pollution Fight: Idaho is among 17 states suing California to block enforcement of its Plastics Act, arguing the rules will raise costs for everyday goods and exceed state authority. Water Scarcity Signals: NASA imagery shows Arizona’s San Carlos Reservoir “near-empty,” underscoring how drought and water releases can trigger major fish die-offs. El Niño Watch: Climatologists say the Northwest could see one of the strongest El Niños on record, with a possible shift toward wetter fall conditions and higher mountain snowpack. Invasive Species Alert: Oregon confirmed a quagga mussel near Prineville Reservoir; tests found no more mussels so far, but agencies are coordinating rapid response. Community Water Quality Spotlight: Idaho Conservation League volunteers are continuing Lake Pend Oreille monitoring to track indicators like phosphorus, dissolved oxygen, and pH and flag problems early.