125-year-old Idaho ranch gets permanent protection

A family ranch near Ashton, Idaho, is now permanently protected by a conservation easement that limits how the land can be developed. The agreement safeguards 1,686 acres of Flying A Ranch while allowing the Atchley family to continue farming and ranching.

The move also protects an important wildlife migration corridor used by mule deer travelling from Wyoming into Idaho, along with habitat for several other species.A homestead that turned into a potato businessThe Atchley family has worked this land since 1901, when James Arthur Atchley moved from Tennessee and claimed it. He founded Atchley Farms in 1906.

According to earlier records, the family’s potato-growing history goes back even further, Teton Valley News reported. In 1923, James won a blue ribbon at the Eastern Idaho State Fair.Today, the ranch covers roughly 5,000 acres and grows seed potatoes on 800 to 1,000 acres.