HISTORY OF IDAHO MINT GROWERS ASSOCIATION – Due to the importance of the growing Mint Industry and production Regions in Idaho, which started in the late 1950’s, several growers and industry representatives held informal meetings to discuss the formation of an entity to focus strictly on the Mint Industry in Idaho and how to better it. Shortly after, the Idaho Mint Growers Commission was formed (in the 1970’s).
During the next few years the idea was discussed further by various mint growers and industry representatives to create another entity to help with Legislative efforts and the promotion and education of Idaho’s Mint Industry to elected officials and the public.
In 1986, the Idaho Mint Growers Association officially became its own entity and the Idaho Mint Growers Commission became the Idaho Mint Commission (Legislation was passed to enact the Idaho Mint Industry Act of 1989).
Since the IMGA’s establishment, communication and cooperation among members of the Mint Industry has allowed for research to be funded to enhance better yielding and vigorous varieties, address disease and pest control issues, acquire pesticide labels for the Industry, achieve marketing, educational and promotional awareness and to develop networking with members of the Industry through Annual Conventions and other symposiums.