tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80816585708482785332024-03-09T18:48:10.929-08:00WSDA AgBriefsUpdates on issues of interest to the agricultural community and the public.Kat Kerstenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15206305747996915586noreply@blogger.comBlogger399125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-37190366236973789402024-02-22T09:57:00.000-08:002024-02-22T09:57:59.387-08:00We have moved<h2 style="clear: both;"></h2><h3 style="text-align: center;">WSDA Ag Briefs Blog can now be found on the<br /> <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/about-wsda/news-and-media-relations/blog-posts" target="_blank">Washington State Department of Agriculture website.<br /></a><br />We look forward to seeing you there!<br /><br /></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuibMi3-aEST4DqwY8E4OnzMapu2MaU91kQ2_y785K9xJaBWa-5pX53BJqqHogMTp0yvVh1HD-JCAtz1VvRmeu-tfonxAzrU-j45GNXQa8K4q1eE5ElqNRKVpJuxpGgN4s-FvFuQBfNlCBWLWRZWVzMaxDh8v9PwAkLkAw8lah64IbkMNqSaxwc8K6sGTN/s1080/We%20have%20moved.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuibMi3-aEST4DqwY8E4OnzMapu2MaU91kQ2_y785K9xJaBWa-5pX53BJqqHogMTp0yvVh1HD-JCAtz1VvRmeu-tfonxAzrU-j45GNXQa8K4q1eE5ElqNRKVpJuxpGgN4s-FvFuQBfNlCBWLWRZWVzMaxDh8v9PwAkLkAw8lah64IbkMNqSaxwc8K6sGTN/w400-h400/We%20have%20moved.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-33483576674313541082024-02-04T14:29:00.000-08:002024-02-04T14:44:42.124-08:00Cultivating Love: A Valentine's Day Ode from the Washington State Department of Agriculture<p> <a href="mailto:kimberly.vaughn@agr.wa.gov" style="background-color: white; color: #1f41af; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Kim Vaughn</a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Communications<br /><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA4om1OndP6F6ta3qVGi-fRrIQJVmzv2bGS2wNrpCBVRq47ljbiGvkwJhFHwRLx6g6V9rWtHMWS4UHkGW1-jD9Nx_8VIzGUX9M7LjZQGuiR5b0s2dKKHSVN7_I_WEb-_cwnraTVM8Lu8iKemOmLbO1BmMgiPE3ETzXKxVe6b-FFJzASBg9gIqJxoIQ5qgD/s940/ValBlogHeroImage.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA4om1OndP6F6ta3qVGi-fRrIQJVmzv2bGS2wNrpCBVRq47ljbiGvkwJhFHwRLx6g6V9rWtHMWS4UHkGW1-jD9Nx_8VIzGUX9M7LjZQGuiR5b0s2dKKHSVN7_I_WEb-_cwnraTVM8Lu8iKemOmLbO1BmMgiPE3ETzXKxVe6b-FFJzASBg9gIqJxoIQ5qgD/s320/ValBlogHeroImage.png" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p> As Valentine's Day approaches, hearts are aflutter with love, and what better way to celebrate this special day than by exploring the romantic side of agriculture? </p><p></p><p>You might not consider the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) in the same sentence as romance. But hold on, because we're about to unveil the love-filled side of WSDA that ensures your Valentine's Day is as special as can be. </p><p>Beyond the fields of green and the rows of crops, there lies a love story between WSDA, farmers and producers, and the land they cultivate. From flowers to gift baskets, and even the journey to your romantic dinner, WSDA works year-round to make sure you feel loved every single day.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Flowers for that special someone </h3><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ97p5f7_TEHYBOni8XQncux0I87EGWPEjRaju1vAQKMTfc9YN3EBMgTBLUm5bj3KUz5ZAAkSdl3hJLKhgtnKATnHxzsj2EUxxRIfaQq_uk9E-LjsJkvMBMRa1g_pQ6CLZNIYk19vtqd_x7HhdBg4s8ISFKdTd5KlVb1VbaMMlBpIYSTeO2cDAnVPzn3gb/s800/JapaneseBeetleRose.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ97p5f7_TEHYBOni8XQncux0I87EGWPEjRaju1vAQKMTfc9YN3EBMgTBLUm5bj3KUz5ZAAkSdl3hJLKhgtnKATnHxzsj2EUxxRIfaQq_uk9E-LjsJkvMBMRa1g_pQ6CLZNIYk19vtqd_x7HhdBg4s8ISFKdTd5KlVb1VbaMMlBpIYSTeO2cDAnVPzn3gb/w200-h200/JapaneseBeetleRose.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>When it comes to flowers for your special someone, WSDA is on the case! We play a vital role in <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/plant-health/nursery-plant-seller-installer-inspection" target="_blank">flower inspections</a>, ensuring the quality and health of floral products within the state. As part of our regulatory efforts, we conduct inspections to monitor for pests, diseases, and compliance with agricultural standards in the cultivation and trade of flowers. In other words, we make sure there are no unexpected guests, like <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/insects-pests-and-weeds/insects/japanese-beetle" target="_blank">Japanese beetles</a>, hiding in your roses. These inspections are crucial to maintaining the integrity of the floral industry, safeguarding against the spread of harmful pests, and ensuring that consumers receive high-quality, disease-free flowers.<p></p><p>Our commitment to rigorous flower inspections contributes to the overall health and sustainability of Washington's floral ecosystem, fostering a thriving environment for the cultivation and enjoyment of diverse and beautiful flowers. Nurseries are diligently inspected to ensure that your bouquet is pest-free, so your romantic gesture is as delightful as can be.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Getting you there</h3><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSC326nK_H9trD6gq37RlS-GyIlXamj-6CKE64liGlxjAi80oiHVmn0ivhs1K3ZpcaGF3putSEMEwq7B_rtobDcfZtuozyIjBf7n7uDytndKnYmRRECO2kMBVPMrRMCx4OIbuoFTfUGW39lufje7H3utw5P-wYYNmwFWx1br_5axfEDJyY_iNY9XRHVb7l/s800/WeightsMeasures.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSC326nK_H9trD6gq37RlS-GyIlXamj-6CKE64liGlxjAi80oiHVmn0ivhs1K3ZpcaGF3putSEMEwq7B_rtobDcfZtuozyIjBf7n7uDytndKnYmRRECO2kMBVPMrRMCx4OIbuoFTfUGW39lufje7H3utw5P-wYYNmwFWx1br_5axfEDJyY_iNY9XRHVb7l/w200-h200/WeightsMeasures.png" width="200" /></a></div>The journey to your date is just as important, and WSDA is here to support you every mile of the way. With a focus on both traditional gas and eco-friendly electric vehicles, we make sure that the gas pumps and electric charging stations are delivering everything you pay for. Last year alone, we inspected a whopping 10,788 gas meters, ensuring fueling up is smooth and worry-free. <p></p><p>The WSDA <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/services/inspections-and-investigations/inspections/weights-and-measures" target="_blank">Weights and Measures Program</a> fosters fairness in commercial transactions by conducting tests and inspections on commercial devices, verifying prices, inspecting packages, educating the public, monitoring fuel quality, and investigating complaints.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Gift baskets and cottage food regulations </h3><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDbJVS0WyIOUDp8GGfslNmP_vAF3ySuNtsLWopEsCIWvKbHRUjfugxXxIHUvAiK6q5Ca4avmgkX73BiEsa0qWpLJ1CpPgvie4IF6AQkonuw7Mnr8-zb5JZv0rnhdeifuj7UEkoBozHIGeBNoB_14BdhZPb3qxwhXMid8isdlytw6MzY3gkqGaHrP9CSBj/s800/PreparedLoaves.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDbJVS0WyIOUDp8GGfslNmP_vAF3ySuNtsLWopEsCIWvKbHRUjfugxXxIHUvAiK6q5Ca4avmgkX73BiEsa0qWpLJ1CpPgvie4IF6AQkonuw7Mnr8-zb5JZv0rnhdeifuj7UEkoBozHIGeBNoB_14BdhZPb3qxwhXMid8isdlytw6MzY3gkqGaHrP9CSBj/w200-h200/PreparedLoaves.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Now, let's talk about those delightful gift baskets and the goodies they hold. WSDA plays a crucial role in ensuring that <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/food-safety/food-safety/cottage-food" target="_blank">cottage food operations</a> are producing safe treats for your enjoyment. <p></p><p>A Cottage Food Permit enables Washington State residents to produce safe food items, including baked goods, candies, jams, jellies, preserves, fruit butters, dry spice blends, or dry tea blends in their home kitchen. We make sure that your Valentine's Day treats are not only delicious but also adhere to the highest safety standards. Additionally, we require all ingredients be included on the labels so you don’t get any unexpected surprises in your Valentine’s goodies.</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYyFbwVFJXWOI-Rx23koDDs8ilXs1VNRcmDESG30hmjrcx5kROrHexP9CpR5ugE3-GxfoR796q6eRJRHk6InH_Z1NT-nDFZoJvDrOQm5jo6kWx0_aTmn7cJ1qAqmpJ4KhJqmCn1NjBgRCwxKPZLw50klmRG-xM4xp-jxV641UY9i6aIi729eisjt5rmn_/s1080/RedArrow.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="171" data-original-width="1080" height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYyFbwVFJXWOI-Rx23koDDs8ilXs1VNRcmDESG30hmjrcx5kROrHexP9CpR5ugE3-GxfoR796q6eRJRHk6InH_Z1NT-nDFZoJvDrOQm5jo6kWx0_aTmn7cJ1qAqmpJ4KhJqmCn1NjBgRCwxKPZLw50klmRG-xM4xp-jxV641UY9i6aIi729eisjt5rmn_/w400-h64/RedArrow.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>So, this Valentine's Day as you exchange flowers, enjoy a romantic dinner out, and savor delicious treats from your gift basket, take a moment to appreciate the behind-the-scenes efforts of WSDA. We're your ally in ensuring that every aspect of your celebration, from the blossoms in your hand to the treats on your plate, is filled with love and safety. </p><p>To stay updated on WSDA activities, subscribe to our <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/contact-us/email-notification-lists" target="_blank">email lists</a> and receive notifications directly in your inbox.</p><p>Cheers to a Valentine's Day made extra special.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: red;">With Love, <br />WSDA Staff</span></i></h3>Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-72017387207819816432024-01-08T15:01:00.000-08:002024-01-08T15:01:06.698-08:00Take the Climate Resilience Producer Survey<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="mailto:kimberly.vaughn@agr.wa.gov" style="background-color: white; color: #1f41af; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Kim Vaughn</a><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: 400;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: 400;">Communications</span></h3><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Navigating climate challenges in Washington's agricultural landscape</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPlhwhZT1re0yeGiGeMGy_KbeTD37EWnNVPXRXVdj0wq6x_OJ_9Oc7vagp9zjRR33yEzhEXTgl2JSeVhzM7wKTdpnvsGaZBnLIikG7QBMBfVeTBgCB1DlVL9lEMpudxfWNllPZbsOyBb2T2u7PETyLZbFOn59Mu4DwWfNMw33Vbbt4kdAu1CveKOgAzmY/s1280/AlfalfaDroughtDamage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPlhwhZT1re0yeGiGeMGy_KbeTD37EWnNVPXRXVdj0wq6x_OJ_9Oc7vagp9zjRR33yEzhEXTgl2JSeVhzM7wKTdpnvsGaZBnLIikG7QBMBfVeTBgCB1DlVL9lEMpudxfWNllPZbsOyBb2T2u7PETyLZbFOn59Mu4DwWfNMw33Vbbt4kdAu1CveKOgAzmY/s320/AlfalfaDroughtDamage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Rich soils, diverse climates, and large-scale irrigation infrastructure make Washington one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world. Washington farmlands and farmers are of global importance, moving more than $17 billion per year in food and agricultural products through Washington's ports, producing over 300 different crops, and generating $12.8 billion per year in agricultural production value for the state economy. <br /><br />These activities are critical to urban and rural communities alike, providing food security, nutrition, and thriving livelihoods in Washington and beyond.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Extreme weather, invasive pests and disease, and declining water availability are daily impacting agricultural production in Washington. Managing the wide range of potential climate risks and costs moving forward has made livestock and crop production—already challenging and volatile industries—even more challenging. However, with the right support and innovation, Washington farmers are poised to lead the way in building a more economically viable and climate-resilient future. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Washington State Department of Agriculture, Climate Resilience Plan, is one important step towards that goal. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Climate Resilience Plan</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To support the continued viability and vitality of Washington agriculture, WSDA has launched an 18-month climate resilience planning process, in partnership with Washington State University. The Climate Resilience Plan will summarize recent climate science, identify vulnerabilities, highlight opportunities, and include newly developed resources. We intend for this work to be informed by the needs and experiences of Washington producers. It is essential that your voice is heard.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Take the survey</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAOUgHm_72q-T1tQmcWXOdc7Qh5w4P_9_Q3uFJFB8EZght_7PlX5sfpCuwlIzs9ta26GPAWHVwB6bemgKY0sOCQMGccn4f-FhP6OP-a7xBnmykRdIDWBLoXuQn2jizLu7va-WxtG8Zao9LJPK8HBvg_Klz8zRwFkUm3O7qFoXXOnQTb4RG6swpG6Swyei/s2000/WSDA%20Survey%20Flyer%20(8.5%20x%2011%20in).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1545" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAOUgHm_72q-T1tQmcWXOdc7Qh5w4P_9_Q3uFJFB8EZght_7PlX5sfpCuwlIzs9ta26GPAWHVwB6bemgKY0sOCQMGccn4f-FhP6OP-a7xBnmykRdIDWBLoXuQn2jizLu7va-WxtG8Zao9LJPK8HBvg_Klz8zRwFkUm3O7qFoXXOnQTb4RG6swpG6Swyei/w309-h400/WSDA%20Survey%20Flyer%20(8.5%20x%2011%20in).png" width="309" /></a></div>Your responses will help us understand the on-farm impacts of climate change, resources in use, and current agricultural needs. <br /><br />We want to hear from small and large producers from every crop and animal operation in every part of the state. <br /><br />This information will help us communicate the nuances of climate change in agriculture to industry stakeholders and policymakers, and to build programs that are in direct response to your feedback. Your input is valued and appreciated.<br /><br /><b>Survey participants will be entered into a drawing to win a $100 VISA gift card.</b><br /><br />The survey is available in English and Spanish. <br /><br /><a href="https://wsdaclimateresiliencesurvey.my.canva.site/" target="_blank">Please take a few minutes to fill out this short, anonymous survey by February 23, 2024</a>. <br /><br />We thank you for your participation in this effort.</div>Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-21499968965606879262023-12-22T22:07:00.000-08:002023-12-22T22:07:12.924-08:00Santa’s reindeer cleared to fly into Washington State on Christmas Eve <p><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Dr. Amber Itle<br />Washington State Veterinarian</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwWm38Gc3bIqjNrEew8XpTBNezGTiepW0SGQkV2poP42dq8EgE_8AH1QIbn31CCRqMZxBiBJUxw8oaSD_VgzqHMiOCRoG2TMQzL_b0P5vulvmGZyd0Za6rAHUZHFe25Qky-tco55E-sg6cLzK2_VEnkep9oZAfKUIJ-QBkeyAbattW3frjJiYDbSCtPQ/s4704/Reindeer2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3813" data-original-width="4704" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwWm38Gc3bIqjNrEew8XpTBNezGTiepW0SGQkV2poP42dq8EgE_8AH1QIbn31CCRqMZxBiBJUxw8oaSD_VgzqHMiOCRoG2TMQzL_b0P5vulvmGZyd0Za6rAHUZHFe25Qky-tco55E-sg6cLzK2_VEnkep9oZAfKUIJ-QBkeyAbattW3frjJiYDbSCtPQ/w320-h259/Reindeer2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mother and daughter reindeer duo take a nap at the <br />Leavenworth Reindeer Farm in Leavenworth, <br />Washington. </td></tr></tbody></table>Not all elves make toys, some take care of Santa’s team of
reindeer. Santa’s head herds-elf, Ming Ming, oversees reindeer husbandry and
care at the North Pole. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The elves have
all been preparing for the big day by taking special care to properly condition
the team to ensure they can endure the long flight. The elves work hard to
minimize stress by providing reindeer with optimal nutrition, fresh air, clean
bedding and lots of space. Hermie, the elf dental specialist inspects and
“floats” all their teeth for optimal oral health.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <br /><br /> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Ming Ming is also in charge of making sure all the reindeer
health requirements are met before flying around the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While planning for Santa’s stops in the
United States, he checked <a href="https://www.interstatelivestock.com/">InterstateLivestock.com</a>
to see what each State requires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the
reindeer that cross state lines must meet <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/animals-livestock-and-pets/animal-health/import-requirements">Washington
State import requirements</a>, including a <a href="https://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=16-54-030">Certificate of
Veterinary Inspection</a> (CVI) issued by an accredited veterinarian and a
permit number to move between States for toy delivery. A CVI is a special
animal health document that certifies that the animals listed “are not showing
signs of infectious, contagious and/or communicable diseases” and have met all
the required vaccinations and testing requirements. Santa’s reindeer
tested negative for tuberculosis, brucellosis, and meningeal worms and have
maintained “free” status in the CWD Herd Certification Program.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner,
Blitzen and Rudolph all received clearance to fly into Washington state. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Washington State Veterinarian Dr. Ben Smith met with Ming
Ming to examine the reindeer, check his paperwork, and review his on farm and
travel <a href="https://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/secure-food-supply/">biosecurity
plans</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ranger Rick stopped the
movement as the package hauler crossed the Canadian border and determined that
all <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>pertinent documents were correct.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><b>Santa’s Top 10 Biosecurity Tips <o:p></o:p></b><p></p>
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croptop="4654f" cropbottom="2438f" cropleft="8989f" cropright="9113f"/>
<w:wrap type="square"/>
</v:shape><![endif]-->No visitors to the North Pole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Keep a closed reindeer
herd.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Perform annual laboratory
testing for diseases of concern.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Establish a relationship
with a veterinarian and perform annual exams and vaccinations. <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Bring your own reindeer
grain, hay, and water for the journey.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">When traveling, never land
on the ground; rooftops are cleaner. <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Avoid direct contact with
wildlife, domestic animals and humans. Steer clear of migrating waterfowl
that might be carrying avian influenza. <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Clean and disinfect your
sleigh and boots between rooftops, states, and countries and when
returning to the North Pole. <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Isolate all reindeer
returning from toy delivery for 30 days.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Designate elves to care
for reindeer who have traveled. </li></ol>
<p class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiloe1YJzR37ImQVrgwvSR6g35Pdh3JMcr7szrQz4vynbo5kUzmb59GswhSFM7NnClshGk_0k97FUDjgxJqg-BhqBTAfZlIbGVqe_6m5Gp7yjEIC8q8Xo1nxcqeHfbUProKmGuxUo4jMLoKIQxWsDlF29xCMbaqoFmylElJW8hM8735SwDz8QkYiXDGlVA/s6084/Reindeer1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4484" data-original-width="6084" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiloe1YJzR37ImQVrgwvSR6g35Pdh3JMcr7szrQz4vynbo5kUzmb59GswhSFM7NnClshGk_0k97FUDjgxJqg-BhqBTAfZlIbGVqe_6m5Gp7yjEIC8q8Xo1nxcqeHfbUProKmGuxUo4jMLoKIQxWsDlF29xCMbaqoFmylElJW8hM8735SwDz8QkYiXDGlVA/w320-h236/Reindeer1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The herd eats a snack at Leavenworth Reindeer <br />Farm in Leavenworth, Washington. </td></tr></tbody></table>Make sure to track Santa and the reindeer’s flight path on
December 24 using<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.noradsanta.org%2F&data=04%7C01%7CAItle%40agr.wa.gov%7C7ba37051a23a40a8acab08d9c55e7194%7C11d0e217264e400a8ba057dcc127d72d%7C0%7C0%7C637757831687174848%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=CXEW%2BYjkgGHNxiYzxmouNChuwCJB792njVzDfQpbtRw%3D&reserved=0"> NORAD’s
Santa Tracker.</a><u> </u><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Remember, if you are moving animals across state lines this
holiday season to check <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.interstatelivestock.com%2F&data=04%7C01%7CAItle%40agr.wa.gov%7C7ba37051a23a40a8acab08d9c55e7194%7C11d0e217264e400a8ba057dcc127d72d%7C0%7C0%7C637757831687174848%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=6azfLcbGOWeFk4QydchBeaT6%2BtTcjQEJhlhdqOcRBoA%3D&reserved=0">interstatelivestock.com</a>
to meet the interstate animal movement requirements.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Have a safe and happy holiday season from our end of the
barn to yours. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>Amber Bettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01843621452991356100noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-10523402222793830692023-12-19T12:27:00.000-08:002023-12-19T12:27:21.560-08:00Ofelio Borges Receives Latino Leadership Award for Contributions to Washington's Tree Fruit Industry<h3 style="text-align: left;"><p style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rriP_-kKFi-W5upAKYx4VjDaPrlabojPAFfBARobT9hX3jYKOeJt5alphOAg3_EUXxnN3bYXCE1ru5lsXkjTrtnAPV-iD-USfUUSpx_iES60ByWDsMq6kJQZeXSGzsxC6myU4iB98ogryz4Ugeb9tynUoq1DiGUY3UXwmZSBmW64-p2m5R8MUA0r-H0/s4640/Ofelio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4640" data-original-width="4248" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rriP_-kKFi-W5upAKYx4VjDaPrlabojPAFfBARobT9hX3jYKOeJt5alphOAg3_EUXxnN3bYXCE1ru5lsXkjTrtnAPV-iD-USfUUSpx_iES60ByWDsMq6kJQZeXSGzsxC6myU4iB98ogryz4Ugeb9tynUoq1DiGUY3UXwmZSBmW64-p2m5R8MUA0r-H0/s320/Ofelio.jpg" width="293" /></a></div></h3>Ofelio Borges, Technical Services and Education Program manager at Washington State Department of Agriculture, was honored with the prestigious Latino Leadership Award from the Washington State Tree Fruit Association (WSTFA). The award, presented during the association's annual meeting in Kennewick on Dec. 5, recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the Hispanic community in Washington's tree fruit industry. <br /><br />Born in Hidalgo, Mexico, Ofelio Borges has dedicated 35 years to the Washington tree fruit industry, making him a highly respected figure. His extensive knowledge and experience have earned him the admiration and respect of his peers. As a program manager for technical services and education, Borges has been instrumental in developing and implementing pesticide training programs in Washington. One of his notable achievements includes the creation of the Worker Protection Standard Train the Trainer program, which has trained hundreds of trainers across the state.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Jacqui Gordon N., Director of Training, Education, and Member Services at the Washington State Tree Fruit Association, speaks highly of Ofelio Borges' dedication and passion for his work. She says, "His professional ethics are contagious, his desire to grow and above all, to help others grow is admirable." <br /><br />In addition to his role at the Washington State Department of Agriculture, Borges also oversees the Farmworker Education Program, ensuring that farmworkers receive the necessary training and support for their safety and success. His commitment to the well-being of farmworkers and his extensive experience in safety issues related to agriculture have made him an invaluable asset to the industry. <br /><br />The Latino Leadership Award acknowledges Ofelio Borges' remarkable contributions and serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Hispanic community in Washington's tree fruit industry. His achievements and impact continue to inspire others, and his commitment to excellence sets a high standard for future leaders in the field.<div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><br /></div>Amber Bettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01843621452991356100noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-74962719698686760112023-12-18T19:00:00.000-08:002023-12-20T09:29:39.391-08:00CSI meets agriculture: WSDA's pathology lab leads next-gen pest detection<p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="mailto:TWilson@agr.wa.gov">Telissa Wilson</a><br />WSDA Plant Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics Lab</span></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBdvcQyeO-6HX0FyKxnbJBq-CoRvvsvf4WqmnFvpwEYWSUd8Sjt7bbd_03w9htC7cnylbmg7SepmdrQwaZ9REGvTIbDPrSjL7o-rSWCUOwb6N7otG5xO16ct9NDTzsss-TY9oSL1i7nYUagk-RbxymX6x6KONba02e3cR-xiHVAbtsDsbo6MifCCCDOzU/s975/HornetsInVials.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="975" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBdvcQyeO-6HX0FyKxnbJBq-CoRvvsvf4WqmnFvpwEYWSUd8Sjt7bbd_03w9htC7cnylbmg7SepmdrQwaZ9REGvTIbDPrSjL7o-rSWCUOwb6N7otG5xO16ct9NDTzsss-TY9oSL1i7nYUagk-RbxymX6x6KONba02e3cR-xiHVAbtsDsbo6MifCCCDOzU/s320/HornetsInVials.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern giant hornets in vials awaiting testing.</td></tr></tbody></table>Did you know WSDA’s Plant Pathology & Molecular Diagnostics Lab (PPMDL) uses cutting-edge molecular tools to detect unwanted pests and pathogens? Our PPMDL lab runs tests and uses equipment that many of you have probably seen on CSI or heard about in recent years due to COVID-19. PPMDL tests a wide variety of materials and runs an even wider array of tests, all with the shared goal of finding pests early and preventing them from being established. <p></p><p>Like a forensic lab, PPMDL maintains highly trained staff, follows strict quality control measures, contributes to research and development of detection tools, and often collaborates with a wide array of organizations. Below is a snapshot of some recent work that showcases PPMDL projects straight out of a CSI episode.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Haplotyping invasive weeds</h3><p>Sometimes it can be difficult to differentiate between species - whether it is a weedy plant or an invasive insect. Is this species a crime suspect or victim? Haplotyping compares genetic information among different samples to better understand how closely the samples are related - whether it is a native species or a wolf in sheep's clothing. </p><p>Enter suspect number 1: the highly invasive, aquatic grass <i>Phragmites australis</i>. Because the different subspecies of <i>Phragmites</i> grass are so difficult to tell apart visually, their haplotypes are used to assign them a native or non-native status, which is needed to guide treatment plans. </p><p>For this work, PPMDL staff first extract DNA from submitted leaf samples. Then staff use a process called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to copy the DNA of very specific regions- regions that have been empirically determined to be good markers for haplotyping in a given species. The last step requires sequencing of the resulting PCR product so the sample haplotypes can be compared against a database of known haplotypes. In the case of <i>Phragmites australis</i>, haplotyping has allowed wetland managers across multiple agencies to preserve their native grass stands and only destroy the invaders. In our CSI analogy, you could say that haplotyping ensures that only the true perpetrator - <i>Phragmites australis</i> – does time for the crime. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Forensic swabbing for trace DNA</h3><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CXpmuFP0uI6ylb5Jy36QvV1GjA_8TviSw8n5YHcxkhfF7tJrRax6vtPXzwd859xdN2ifEeEKafEEG5rTwxsQ_-tGClhwbzlBDGF2vzKBZSA4ktQirWjRIsxAe__tJUvPL1XTAS1qcZF3Vi9wN0SVzm6OxK0f2ms5zgXib4bP5qpfeUhJFk9Cagkzaqg/s417/ForesicSwabbing.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="417" data-original-width="313" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CXpmuFP0uI6ylb5Jy36QvV1GjA_8TviSw8n5YHcxkhfF7tJrRax6vtPXzwd859xdN2ifEeEKafEEG5rTwxsQ_-tGClhwbzlBDGF2vzKBZSA4ktQirWjRIsxAe__tJUvPL1XTAS1qcZF3Vi9wN0SVzm6OxK0f2ms5zgXib4bP5qpfeUhJFk9Cagkzaqg/s320/ForesicSwabbing.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forensic swabbing can detect <br />where a pest has been. </td></tr></tbody></table>One of the biggest challenges in preventing the establishment of an invasive species is detecting the pest very soon after it is introduced. Sometimes WSDA receives reports of suspected invasive species, but the specimen was not collected and a determination cannot be made if a photo was provided. But what if you didn’t <i>need</i> a specimen – or even a photo – to confirm that a pest had been at a particular location?<p></p><p>You have probably seen shows where crime scenes are swabbed for the presence of DNA left behind on surfaces. These swabs are then shipped to a forensic lab, where scientists extract DNA and perform various molecular tests to analyze the sample. Even though forensic scientists have been utilizing trace DNA for decades to confirm presence at a crime scene, using trace DNA to detect agricultural pests is in its infancy. </p><h4 style="text-align: left;">eDNA</h4><p>Our pathology lab is changing that. PPMDL has been using swabs to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) left behind by two invasive insects – the spotted lantern fly (SLF) and the northern giant hornet (NGH). Once validated, these assays can confirm the presence of SLF and NGH at sites where a physical sample cannot be collected and early on before pest density is high enough to use alternative survey methods.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Pathogen detection</h3><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1CqM_PlrzOuAushmkoTrcZiPd82fiAAbt0nrAMG2bs46QHdx1wwQCFbjFJhjQ77L3NxkQDUn71k076OQKZDtJ6Tag1ioE68VJgMNx2074eKEtU8IREWwKms_2kWk1whONte6InDzoh2GGw1qNUObfB-edY4uzlaUXvJnGS7R-jIoartuM0gjiqKfkx8/s496/qpcrplot.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="496" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1CqM_PlrzOuAushmkoTrcZiPd82fiAAbt0nrAMG2bs46QHdx1wwQCFbjFJhjQ77L3NxkQDUn71k076OQKZDtJ6Tag1ioE68VJgMNx2074eKEtU8IREWwKms_2kWk1whONte6InDzoh2GGw1qNUObfB-edY4uzlaUXvJnGS7R-jIoartuM0gjiqKfkx8/s320/qpcrplot.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An exponential curve corresponds <br />to positive detection in a qPCR test</td></tr></tbody></table>When someone passes away and the cause of death is unknown, forensic scientists may test for the presence of certain pathogens. PPMDL uses these same molecular methods to test for plant pathogens that threaten our state’s numerous agricultural resources. Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) is a highly specific and sensitive method that PPMDL routinely uses. In fact, PPMDL ran over 2,500 qPCR tests for plant pathogens alone in 2022! These test results help clear exports for trade, certify growing areas free of pests, and help prevent the establishment of high-risk pests through early detection surveys. <p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">DNA analysis of fecal samples</h3><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOa9_12B-ucJQ3gMnRuUFtOxBsxW4p5fN8OSdzokCs0MzF3zAU4IO3YM3yY_0DRBhtsZ-YW8gZ_eTMdMp8yKVFEBDALyiBE1F_WUv-mzjOFsrwQMqRxznAxsa4jJPm_qW115MLR-rvbi5aJM2mUA5mmiCzgauyh7HtpFaHo0qtHqqlXOmPRV-UREpjtyc/s363/FecalAnalysis.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="363" data-original-width="272" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOa9_12B-ucJQ3gMnRuUFtOxBsxW4p5fN8OSdzokCs0MzF3zAU4IO3YM3yY_0DRBhtsZ-YW8gZ_eTMdMp8yKVFEBDALyiBE1F_WUv-mzjOFsrwQMqRxznAxsa4jJPm_qW115MLR-rvbi5aJM2mUA5mmiCzgauyh7HtpFaHo0qtHqqlXOmPRV-UREpjtyc/s320/FecalAnalysis.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PPMDL conducts fecal analysis<br />to determine hornets' diet</td></tr></tbody></table>One of the strangest-sounding projects that PPMDL has taken on recently involved extracting DNA from giant hornet fecal pellets to discover what the larvae were being fed here in Washington. To do this, PPMDL scraped fecal pellets from inside combs of the four nests that the WSDA Pest Program eradicated. They then extracted the total DNA, which theoretically contains traces of DNA from each organism that was fed to the larval hornet. Next, PPMDL used PCR to amplify a universal genetic segment (called the COI barcoding region) found in all insects and animals. Using advanced molecular magic (aka indexed metabarcoding) PPMDL was able to obtain thousands of genetic sequences that could be correlated to specific prey species. This work allowed researchers to see what NGH has been eating in Whatcom County and how that contrasts with diets in its native habitats. <p></p><p>What did we find? Well, many folks have heard that northern giant hornets are a major threat to honey bees, but many other pollinators were also on their menu. PPMDL also found that bald-faced hornets made up a majority of the sequences obtained across all nests. Check out this "Wings menu" our Communications folks put together showing some of what they were eating. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucRJdO2cQ_a-wYM5m8-iS0WBZ85uhAQgWGuvhjN-0qIqFk99xtVstuHNuLFU3t4WO2T8ZqJAElv41GDR0gpKc2wGUXGL9o_XmtntS6UNmAyUqpk3_lb4whnEC1gcOkpWI2lKfIt1D7B8Rnx0T8ApQfQsR4zl3kB7q045sdAofBiLVyver0DAVO5jOFN0/s2000/HornetMenu%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="fake menu of what hornets eat" border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1214" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucRJdO2cQ_a-wYM5m8-iS0WBZ85uhAQgWGuvhjN-0qIqFk99xtVstuHNuLFU3t4WO2T8ZqJAElv41GDR0gpKc2wGUXGL9o_XmtntS6UNmAyUqpk3_lb4whnEC1gcOkpWI2lKfIt1D7B8Rnx0T8ApQfQsR4zl3kB7q045sdAofBiLVyver0DAVO5jOFN0/w387-h640/HornetMenu%20(1).png" width="387" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Learn more: <div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375683005_Cryptostroma_corticale_the_causal_agent_of_sooty_bark_disease_of_maple_appears_widespread_in_western_Washington_State_USA">https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375683005_Cryptostroma_corticale_the_causal_agent_of_sooty_bark_disease_of_maple_appears_widespread_in_western_Washington_State_USA</a>
(most recent publication)<div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://digitalcommons.linfield.edu/crisscross/111/">https://digitalcommons.linfield.edu/crisscross/111/</a> <a>(Podcast about early NGH work)</a><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/finsc.2023.1134781/full">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/finsc.2023.1134781/full</a>
(Paper on fecal analysis)<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLFBFrGMHno">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLFBFrGMHno</a>
Bloedel WSU/WSDA</p><div><div><div class="msocomtxt" id="_com_1" language="JavaScript">
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</div><p><br /></p><div><br /></div></div></div>Karla Salphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17164887115196610800noreply@blogger.comOlympia, WA, USA47.0378741 -122.900695118.727640263821158 -158.0569451 75.348107936178849 -87.7444451tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-61975275055898665232023-12-01T14:30:00.000-08:002023-12-01T14:58:14.659-08:00Uncovering the mystery of canine respiratory disease in Washington<p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Dr. Amber Itle Washington State Veterinarian<br /></b><b>Dr. Minden Buswell Reserve Veterinary Corp Coordinator</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQez_8YgqaD6_PS-dy1EP7QgsdXWTvcQmZnS3bx8KxcigqJrToxnXUG1MsdZX593Iywg-gyEnkCTdkfb3Oc6SecNGrYK2v5sO1S4OzV19DR7jOBaC_2YZWhDJ6_iGctX8n7zIUhY7yBeKOA04Q9hyKJ6Iu-GtCiK6voFDEuoeJbFzIrtOSPgzrBYtuR0/s6000/SheepHerdingDogCloseUpOnGrass.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQez_8YgqaD6_PS-dy1EP7QgsdXWTvcQmZnS3bx8KxcigqJrToxnXUG1MsdZX593Iywg-gyEnkCTdkfb3Oc6SecNGrYK2v5sO1S4OzV19DR7jOBaC_2YZWhDJ6_iGctX8n7zIUhY7yBeKOA04Q9hyKJ6Iu-GtCiK6voFDEuoeJbFzIrtOSPgzrBYtuR0/s320/SheepHerdingDogCloseUpOnGrass.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I just got back from a trip to the east coast to visit my
family and we all came home with a ‘cold’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>During the holidays, we all come indoors, congregate (under sometimes
stressful conditions) and share holiday cheer and illness alike. Respiratory
disease isn’t uncommon in humans, and it certainly isn’t uncommon in our furry
friends either, especially this time of year. My sister is a small animal
practitioner and the first thing she asked me over Thanksgiving was, “what is
going on with this atypical respiratory illness in dogs?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t sure she had seen anything unusual
but has heard that other veterinarians are seeing an uptick in a more harsh or
prolonged respiratory disease She wanted to know how concerned she should
be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">At the Washington State Veterinarian’s office, we require veterinarians
to report new, emerging diseases or diseases with high morbidity and mortality
so we can monitor disease trends across the state. Each year, WSDA gets reports
of isolated respiratory outbreaks in localized communities or counties, in
boarding facilities and kennels. However, the headlines and social media have
us all concerned about the claim that there is a mysterious canine respiratory
disease sweeping the nation. Certainly, after COVID-19, we are all acutely
aware that global pandemics with new, emerging diseases can happen in humans
and animals alike and we shouldn’t ignore indicators that suggest that
something new and novel could be impacting our canine population. Fortunately, the
current illness of concern has a high recovery rate with very few mortalities
reported and there is no indication of a public health risk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As the Washington State Veterinarian, I want to provide full
transparency about what we know, what we need to understand more and what we
can do in the meantime. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>What do we know about canine respiratory disease?<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC),
sometimes called “kennel cough” has been characterized for decades. CIRDC is a
highly contagious multifactorial disease and is often the result of concurrent infections
with viral and bacterial agents. Viruses are common in dogs <i>(canine
adenovirus 2, canine distemper virus, canine herpesvirus 1, canine influenza
virus (subtypes H3N8 and H3N2), canine respiratory coronavirus, and canine
parainfluenza virus)</i> but sometimes the syndrome can be complicated by secondary
bacterial infections (<i>Bordetella bronchiseptica, Streptococcus zooepidemicus,
<a name="_Hlk152327118">Mycoplasma</a></i><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk152327118;">
sp.<i>) </i></span>resulting in pneumonia. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>What are the clinical signs of CIRDC? <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">CIRDC is characterized by acute or chronic inflammation of
the trachea and bronchial airways resulting in clinical signs such as harsh,
dry coughing fits, retching and gagging and possible partial anorexia. Some
dogs may develop progressing pneumonia. Dogs with pneumonia present with more
severe clinical signs such as lethargy, inappetence (lack of appetite), fever, nasal discharge,
and respiratory distress at rest. This would be considered typical of what we would expect to see. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Is a chronic cough a sign of new or atypical
disease?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Cough is a clinical sign that can be triggered by infection,
be it bacterial or viral, and often persists even after the infection is over
due to inflammation in the airway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even
after treatment, a cough can persist for weeks even after the virus or
bacterial infection has been cleared. Cough can also be caused by other
underlying conditions such as allergies, heartworm infection, heart failure, fungal
infections and so on. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is important to
work with your veterinarian to rule out other causes. Regular visits and
examinations by a veterinarian can help identify individual risk factors
especially in older animals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>What are the risk factors associated with developing the
atypical respiratory disease?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Risk factors for all canine respiratory diseases include 1) elderly dogs and puppies due to age related immunosuppression<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2) unvaccinated dogs or dogs that aren’t up
to date on vaccines<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3) dogs in kennels,
doggie daycares or boarding facilities <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4) dogs that frequently congregate with other
dogs with unknown vaccination or travel history 5) brachiocephalic breeds (dogs
with shortened skull bones, giving the face and nose a pushed in appearance)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>6) stress (travel, boarding, etc.)<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>How do I know if my dog has the atypical or mystery
respiratory disease? <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It is really important to see your veterinarian and pursue
diagnostics as early as possible. There are several respiratory diagnostic
tests available. However, timing and type of sampling is key to be able to
isolate the microorganism(s) responsible for the illness. Some tests, like
PCR,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>only detect viral particles early
in the disease process. That means that if you wait too long to do diagnostics,
you may get false negative results or that the dog is no longer shedding the
organism.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">If a secondary bacterial infection is suspected, then doing
a culture <u>prior to administering antibiotics</u> is key to identifying the
infectious agent and determining the right antibiotic that the organism is
susceptible to. This improves treatment outcomes and prevents the risk of
creating superbugs that no longer respond to antibiotics. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>What does it mean if my dog is not responding to
treatment? <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">If your dog is not responding to antibiotics or has a
prolonged disease syndrome, it may be an atypical case. However, keep in mind
that not all dogs with respiratory disease need antibiotics. Just like COVID-19
or a cold in humans, viral respiratory illness cannot be treated with
antimicrobials and your veterinarian may prescribe cough suppressants and
anti-inflammatories instead. When we talk about dogs not being responsive to
normal antimicrobial therapy, that may be because viruses don’t respond to antibiotics
and clinical signs like a cough, can take weeks to resolve. Dogs that don’t
respond to therapy and succumb to disease are a real concern. At this point in
time, reports indicate low mortality due to this illness of concern. However,
any dog that dies should be submitted to a diagnostic laboratory, such as the
Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at Washington State University
for a necropsy (animal autopsy) to determine the cause of death.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>How do I know if my dog has a common form of CIRDC rather than something new?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As we try to untangle whether we are dealing with a new or
atypical strain of this canine illness, we are asking veterinarians to collect more data on dogs with 1)
chronic mild-moderate tracheobronchitis with a prolonged duration (6-8 weeks or
longer) that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics, 2) Chronic pneumonia
that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics, or 3) acute pneumonia that
rapidly becomes severe and often leads to death in as little as 24-36 hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Veterinarians should report cases here: - <a href="https://fortress.wa.gov/agr/apps/rad/">WSDA Reportable Animal Disease
Form</a> and select <span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“<b>Unexplained
increase in dead or diseased animals.”<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Collecting
this data will help us develop a case definition so we can better track trends
over time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we are dealing with a new
or novel strain, we would expect the canine population to have no or little
resistance to the illness and we could expect to see widespread
outbreaks of disease through our canine populations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We might also expect to see higher reports of
mortality in vulnerable, immunocompromised populations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>How many reports of atypical respiratory disease has the
WSDA received? <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Since August 2023, a total of 16 reports from veterinarians
have been submitted to the Washington State Department of Agriculture
concerning atypical Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of those 16 reports, two cases have met what
WA considers an atypical CIRDC case. The two confirmed cases are recovering.
WSDA is still collecting more information on the other 14 reports to ensure we
provide accurate information. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Are the cases regionally distributed? <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">At this time, half of the cases reported in the state are in
King County, which may be consistent with urban population distribution. We did
have an outbreak reported in a single animal rescue in Spokane County.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Otherwise, we have not been able to link
cases to each other.<o:p></o:p></p>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTable15List3" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: -1; mso-yfti-lastfirstrow: yes;">
<td style="background: black; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-background-themecolor: text1; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.25pt;" width="90">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 517;"><b><span style="color: white; mso-themecolor: background1;">County<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
</td>
<td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-background-themecolor: text1; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.5pt;" width="138">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 1;"><b><span style="color: white; mso-themecolor: background1;">Number of Reports<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 0;">
<td style="background: white; border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.25pt;" width="90">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 68;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Clark</span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.5pt;" width="138">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 64;">1<o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;">
<td style="background: white; border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.25pt;" width="90">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 4;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Island</span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.5pt;" width="138">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt;">2<o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 2;">
<td style="background: white; border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.25pt;" width="90">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 68;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">King</span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.5pt;" width="138">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 64;">7<o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 3;">
<td style="background: white; border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.25pt;" width="90">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 4;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Pierce</span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.5pt;" width="138">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt;">1<o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 4;">
<td style="background: white; border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.25pt;" width="90">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 68;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Skamania</span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.5pt;" width="138">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 64;">1<o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 5;">
<td style="background: white; border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.25pt;" width="90">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 4;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Snohomish</span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.5pt;" width="138">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt;">1<o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 6; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="background: white; border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.25pt;" width="90">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 68;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Spokane</span><o:p></o:p></b></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.5pt;" width="138">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-yfti-cnfc: 64;">3<o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Are laboratories seeing an uptick in cases?<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">WSDA works very closely with Washington Animal Disease
Diagnostic Laboratory at Washington State University (WSU-WADDL) to be sure we
are tracking submissions and diagnostics. At this time, WSU WADDL has not
reported an uptick in case submissions to the laboratory. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Case reports have identified various causes
with no linking cause between cases. It is important to remember that there are
many underlying causes of canine respiratory disease. We are continuing to
encourage diagnostics to help us better understand trends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b><o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Have dogs been tested for SARS-COV2 (COVID 19)? <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Several laboratories across the United States are working
diligently to try to isolate any new pathogen that may be implicated or any
correlation with positive COVID 19 households. Although dogs can be susceptible
to SARS COV 2, experts reported that so far, all the cases submitted have been
negative.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>What can I do in the meantime? <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"></p><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">1.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">1.</span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Maintain a veterinary-client-patient
relationship with annual visits to your veterinarian</span><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">2.</span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Contact you veterinarian immediately
if your dog is showing signs of illness</span><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">3.</span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Make sure your pet is fully vaccinated and
booster your dog for all canine respiratory diseases <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>annually</span><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">4.</span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Avoid congregations of dogs, dog parks, boarding
facilities, doggie daycare or kennels</span><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">5.</span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Stay away from sick animals or animals with
unknown travel or vaccination history</span><br /><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">6.</span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">If your dog does get sick,
expect laboratory testing to inform best treatment outcomes</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In Washington state, we care about our companion animals.
Washingtonians have big hearts, compassion for animals and have opened their
homes to thousands of rescue dogs in recent years from all over the world. If
you have rescued a dog in recent years, please be sure they are up to date on
ALL vaccines, in addition to rabies that is required for import. Check your
documentation and work with your veterinarian on the best vaccination regimen
to protect your dog. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may think your
dog is fully vaccinated or had all the boosters needed, but they may in fact be
under vaccinated and extremely vulnerable to disease. Treatment and diagnostics
for respiratory disease can be very costly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We all know that “prevention is better than a cure.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">If you have any questions, contact WSDA Animal Health
Program at (360) 902-1878 or <a href="mailto:ahealth@agr.wa.gov">ahealth@agr.wa.gov</a>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u><b>Additional resources</b></u><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wormsandgermsblog.com%2F2023%2F04%2Farticles%2Fanimals%2Fdogs%2Fh5n1-avian-influenza-in-a-dog-ontario-canada%2F&data=05%7C01%7CAItle%40agr.wa.gov%7C5d119efe70de4f2bbac008db36c2f94e%7C11d0e217264e400a8ba057dcc127d72d%7C0%7C0%7C638163983255121112%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=MZYNc6lLuR%2BUNON3TGdLfioNYV9WE0E%2F16C%2BxEe0YPo%3D&reserved=0">H5N1
Avian Influenza in a Dog: Ontario, Canada</a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="https://www.wormsandgermsblog.com/2023/11/articles/animals/dogs/canine-respiratory-disease-outbreak-free-webinar-nov-30-2023/">Canine
Respiratory Illness Q&A: Free Webinar (November 30) | Worms & Germs
Blog (wormsandgermsblog.com)</a><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> <br /></o:p></p>Amber Bettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02031445378686375809noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-9913563488271766092023-11-21T09:47:00.000-08:002023-11-21T09:47:36.901-08:00 The Brussels sprout: Washington's winter gem <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz77wGhlz_MgfI6YHb6xph0ZgY7pxGFYztKZKkDI4HCFSEaBC8bGMb4sF1z7yxdpHlszGFeDq_NSnXRRv8YO6cHmbdLv5bT-_yOrAXegxx458tR6Z33QL5SMVajR7jPk1rJZqjgO7UQpdSSMn2sI7V5EvIprCfShlIAbhU7S2GVTRiQpjqpv4mSo8xuGmc/s900/WACrops%20Feature.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz77wGhlz_MgfI6YHb6xph0ZgY7pxGFYztKZKkDI4HCFSEaBC8bGMb4sF1z7yxdpHlszGFeDq_NSnXRRv8YO6cHmbdLv5bT-_yOrAXegxx458tR6Z33QL5SMVajR7jPk1rJZqjgO7UQpdSSMn2sI7V5EvIprCfShlIAbhU7S2GVTRiQpjqpv4mSo8xuGmc/s320/WACrops%20Feature.png" width="320" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="mailto:kimberly.vaughn@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Kim Vaughn</a><br /><span>Communications</span></span></p><p>During the reign of the ancient Roman empire, athletes devoured Brussels sprouts because they were seen as symbols of endurance and stability. Because Brussels sprouts became so popular in 13th century Belgium, these little veggies were named after the country's capital, Brussels.</p><p>In the colder months, this hearty and nutritious green vegetable takes the stage. This blog will explore the world of growing Brussels sprouts, and creative ways to prepare this nutritious superfood for your holiday meals. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Growing Brussels sprouts in Washington state</h3><p>Brussels sprouts can be finicky to grow. They do best in cool weather and are usually planted in mid-summer for a bountiful fall harvest. To determine the optimum planting time in your region, count backwards about 4 months from your expected first frost. Plant in a location where they will get at least 6 hours of direct sun in a rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0‐7.5.</p><p>Sow seeds about ½ inch deep 2-3 inches apart. When the plants reach about 6 inches tall, thin rows to be at least 12 inches apart. </p><p>Water 1-1 ½ inches a week and add mulch to keep the soil cool during the hot summer. Be sure not to overwater! Because the plant height reaches 2-3 feet, they may require staking. Use a 10-20-10 fertilizer. Too much nitrogen will result in a lot of leafy growth and not enough sprouts. </p><p>Sprouts mature from the bottom of the stalk upwards. Harvest sprouts from the bottom when they reach about 1 inch in diameter. To encourage the sprouts to mature faster, cut off the top leaves 3 to 4 weeks before harvest. Harvest the entire stalk after the first moderate frost by removing the leaves and storing them unwashed, and hanging upside down in a cool, dry area for up to a month. </p><p>As with any <i>Brassica</i>, aphids, cabbage worms, and many other pests can damage your plant so it’s important to keep your eye on them. Remove any fallen plant debris to prevent mildew. Try companion-planting thyme, or place banana and orange peels around the plants, as a pest deterrent. A mild solution of dish soap and water can help to remove pests. You can get more tips on protecting <i>Brassicas</i> in our <a href="https://wastatedeptag.blogspot.com/2023/08/Broccoli-2023.html" target="_blank">Broccoli blog</a>. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Varieties of brussels sprouts</h3><p>In Washington state, Brussels sprouts are usually available from October through March, making them an ideal choice for your holiday meals. Favorite varieties include:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Jade Cross<br /></b>These small, bright green sprouts are well-suited for cooler climates and boast a mildly sweet, nutty flavor.</li><li><b>Long Island Improved<br /></b>This classic variety produces medium-sized sprouts that are tender and sweet when cooked.</li><li><b>Rubine<br /></b>With a deep red hue, this variety adds a striking visual element to any dish while offering a slightly milder flavor.</li><li><b>Diablo<br /></b>Known for its vivid, dark purple sprouts. </li></ul><p></p><p>There are more ways to prepare Brussels sprouts for your holiday meals than just steaming them. Try these delicious options:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Roasted Brussels sprouts</b><br />Seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and a touch of balsamic vinegar.</li><li><b>Crispy Brussels sprout chips</b><br />Thinly sliced and lightly fried, a nutritious alternative to traditional potato chips.</li><li><b>Braised Brussels sprouts</b><br />Slow-cooked in broth or wine, until tender. Often served with complementary ingredients like bacon or pancetta.</li><li><b>Brussels sprouts in salads</b><br />Add shaved Brussels sprouts in your next salad to provide a crisp, refreshing bite.</li></ul><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Nutritional information</h3><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI35738Siau99vlDc-gGH6tfJFC6H8rY2pp9WAH7x79u-VY7dCNtPO15UCkQVHRaZjQD2or1fuqLTIyAz1tLAHvjvPi2FHretnFUwqEc6aMzOwSunoE7g0ZB34SpFeTK4uMrXba5iXDeOCYWWWxgAJT7Nx8H0Rsahlb4CoFC7o4Vf0coy7Z_-_uaChgVAl/s564/nutritional%20info.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="487" data-original-width="564" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI35738Siau99vlDc-gGH6tfJFC6H8rY2pp9WAH7x79u-VY7dCNtPO15UCkQVHRaZjQD2or1fuqLTIyAz1tLAHvjvPi2FHretnFUwqEc6aMzOwSunoE7g0ZB34SpFeTK4uMrXba5iXDeOCYWWWxgAJT7Nx8H0Rsahlb4CoFC7o4Vf0coy7Z_-_uaChgVAl/s320/nutritional%20info.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170383/nutrients" target="_blank">USDA Agricultural Research Service</a></td></tr></tbody></table>The vitamins and minerals in Brussels sprouts aid in healing, promote immunity, and support strong bones. One cup of Brussels sprouts provides around 38 calories, 3g of protein, 8g of carbohydrates, and 0.3g of fat. <p></p><p>Of the 8 grams of carbohydrates in a cup of Brussels sprouts, a little over 3 grams are from fiber. They have a low glycemic index, so they are a good choice for those on a low-carb diet or anyone who is watching their blood sugar. </p><p>Brussels sprouts are a great source of the B-vitamins necessary for cellular energy production, including vitamin B6, thiamine, and folate. They contain 24% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin A, which is important for eyes and immunity. </p><p>Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, providing over 100% of your daily value of each based on a 2,000 calorie per day diet. Vitamin K is linked to heart health and longevity and is responsible for blood clotting. Brussels sprouts also contain manganese, which helps with metabolizing carbohydrates, amino acids, and cholesterol.</p><p>While Brussels sprouts might not be as famous as other vegetables grown in Washington state, they are a winter gem that is deserving of more recognition. As the culinary world continues to rediscover the delights of Brussels sprouts, these cruciferous vegetables offer a delicious reminder that the Washington state's agricultural tapestry is rich and diverse. So, whether you're savoring a plate of crispy roasted Brussels sprouts during your holiday meal, or trying your hand at growing them, you're participating in the growing appreciation of these nutritious and flavorful gems.</p>Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-18775659784026736962023-11-15T13:29:00.000-08:002023-11-15T13:29:09.761-08:00Taste Washington Day Celebrates Local Food and Farm Connections<p><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #292929; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDKxVWjHltumkxpvbzy9bllRHPVu01BnJ-IEyIKC1Bdtpl0sOmnZRM6oUZnKPoGYghh2mUUoGOdc8a3K7vgNwWjJd7kO58-HwjVlbvIs3oUwdixwsLrvGZbpOYbObxIcLtp6lSArLKnKAMDiwuxK3VPawchMNRvCrkHuFTN_upn73WqRsj-jRM1o7ifTU/s385/SaldCups-TWD23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="salad cups served in a Washington school" border="0" data-original-height="344" data-original-width="385" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDKxVWjHltumkxpvbzy9bllRHPVu01BnJ-IEyIKC1Bdtpl0sOmnZRM6oUZnKPoGYghh2mUUoGOdc8a3K7vgNwWjJd7kO58-HwjVlbvIs3oUwdixwsLrvGZbpOYbObxIcLtp6lSArLKnKAMDiwuxK3VPawchMNRvCrkHuFTN_upn73WqRsj-jRM1o7ifTU/w320-h286/SaldCups-TWD23.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #292929; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Annual event
highlights the bounty and diversity of Washington-grown foods</span></h3><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: #FAFAFA; color: #292929; font-family: "Open Sans",sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">The 13th annual Taste
Washington Day, a joyful celebration of locally grown foods in school
cafeterias across Washington state, kicked off this year with great enthusiasm.
Representatives from the farm to school program at the Washington State
Department of Agriculture (WSDA) embarked on a special journey to witness
firsthand how schools in the Ellensburg School District integrate locally
sourced ingredients into their meals.</span><span style="color: #292929; font-family: "Open Sans",sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<br />
<span style="background: #FAFAFA;">The first stop on their visit was the
Ellensburg High School Central Kitchen. The group had the pleasure of meeting
with school nutrition leaders Alexandra Epstein-Solfield, Child Nutrition
Director, and Charlotte Green, Nutrition Specialist, and observing the kitchen
staff skillfully prepare fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. The
commitment to providing nutritious and delicious meals to students was evident
in the vibrant colors and enticing aromas that filled the kitchen.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: #FAFAFA; color: #292929; font-family: "Open Sans",sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Mount Stuart
Elementary School was also in the spotlight during Taste Washington Day.
Students at this school were treated to a delightful lunch featuring produce
from Dagdagan Farm in Wapato, Washington and grass-fed hamburger patties from
Green Bow Farm in Ellensburg. Watermelon slices, roasted grey squash (a zucchini-like
veggie), and other fresh-made dishes from local producers were enjoyed by the
students, who eagerly savored the flavors of their region.</span><span style="color: #292929; font-family: "Open Sans",sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<br />
<span style="background: #FAFAFA;">At approximately 12:15 p.m., a moment of
excitement filled the cafeteria as students collectively bit into Washington apples,
generously donated by Chelan Fresh. The sound of a loud crunch resonated
throughout the room, symbolizing the joy and satisfaction that comes from
enjoying wholesome, locally grown food.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background: #FAFAFA;">This year's Taste Washington Day saw an
impressive participation of more than 40 schools and nearly 50 farmers and food
producers. Taste Washington Day is not just a celebration of farm to school
connections, it is also a platform that allows Washington's children to
discover and appreciate the bounty and diversity of healthy and delicious foods
grown in their home state. It is an opportunity for them to learn about the
importance of local agriculture and the positive impact it has on their health
and the environment. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: #FAFAFA; color: #292929; font-family: "Open Sans",sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">For more information
about WSDA Farm to School, please visit <a href="http://www.agr.wa.gov/farmtoschool">www.agr.wa.gov/farmtoschool</a>. </span><span style="color: #292929; font-family: "Open Sans",sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #292929; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span><p></p>Amber Bettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01843621452991356100noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-68983209800508029792023-11-14T08:54:00.000-08:002023-11-14T08:56:06.647-08:00Cantaloupes: Cultivating sweet success in Washington state<p> <a href="mailto:kimberly.vaughn@agr.wa.gov" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Kim Vaughn</a><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Communications</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZ7xWCO7XXkCh6uij5NI-NgcG2TzaRIGKqQ4KODAMaBkz7nfHpmgOH0D-6yOJJb7zwO3mQ_VJ05Pj94XBlSwlE8sJ3WTBlIausrSxqPDGd6lGOxSLwMlMtBvpKpi6pOH8-EvwjNDHB4yDR4E1fdO0an1xmKW3l2jXYrLhM2NmqBs4kgFcPkx0effo1xk1/s900/WACrops%20Feature13.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZ7xWCO7XXkCh6uij5NI-NgcG2TzaRIGKqQ4KODAMaBkz7nfHpmgOH0D-6yOJJb7zwO3mQ_VJ05Pj94XBlSwlE8sJ3WTBlIausrSxqPDGd6lGOxSLwMlMtBvpKpi6pOH8-EvwjNDHB4yDR4E1fdO0an1xmKW3l2jXYrLhM2NmqBs4kgFcPkx0effo1xk1/s320/WACrops%20Feature13.png" width="320" /></a></div><span style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;">Melons (<em>C. melo</em>) originated in Iran and India around 3000 B.C. and are
one of the oldest crops to be domesticated. While not as prominent as some of Washington
state's other crops, like apples and cherries, cantaloupe has found its own
special place in the heart of the agricultural landscape. In this blog, we'll
delve into the world of cantaloupes in Washington, exploring its cultivation,
favorite varieties, and its growing popularity in a state dominated by other
fruits.</div></span></div><p><o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Growing cantaloupes in Washington state</h3><p><o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Cantaloupe is a warm-season fruit that typically requires a longer, hotter
growing season than the Pacific Northwest provides. However, in the eastern
part of Washington, which experiences warmer and drier summers, cantaloupe
cultivation has become a niche industry. Regions like the Yakima Valley and
Columbia Basin have ideal microclimates for growing cantaloupes. Growing cantaloupes in the northwest’s coldest areas though, can be
tough. Cooler temperatures and plant diseases like fungi and sudden wilt can cause growers to lose
their crops before harvest. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Choose varieties that will mature in 90 days or
less. Start seeds indoors in early May and grow multiple plants to ensure
pollination. Keep seedlings moist and provide 16-18 hours of light a day. Harden
off your seedlings in June before transplanting them into a warm soil bed when
nighttime temperatures don’t fall below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant blooming
flowers throughout your row to attract pollinators.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Once transplanted outdoors, use an all-purpose
10-20-20 fertilizer and cover the bed with clear plastic to keep the soil warm.
Water 1-2 inches per week. Harvest when the skin has a raised netting look before
it starts to turn yellow. Allow the fruit to ripen off the vine for about two
days before eating.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Favorite Washington varieties </h3><p><o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Washington farmers have embraced a selection of cantaloupe varieties
well-suited to the region's unique growing conditions. These suggested varieties mature around
75-80 days.</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Ha’Ogen and Model melons </b><br />Very sweet, with green flesh and a honeydew flavor.<br /></li><li><b>Charentais </b><br />A small French cantaloupe with unrivaled flavor.<br /></li><li><b>Honey Rock and Hale’s Best </b><br />Well-known American cantaloupe varieties that are easy to find seeds and seedlings.<br /></li><li><b>Ineya </b><br />A small Russian melon, with white flesh and a mild honeydew flavor.<br /></li><li><b>Armenian and Metki </b><br />These varieties look like large cucumbers with a mildly sweet flavor.</li></ul><p></p><h3>Nutritional information</h3><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrX6yzvr9LYSEufmjEriRuqvKNTrCe_JaBMeGDJGRWkZ7H7g7aC5nyBBxbOJIyCRrxRrsPwnxXYXgcHcVDvxmYz0F0J1UwuleXzuhHkCd5xHBelUDpUZEp9pwP5JqLbnSN2ZaCNV2P7dIpUcmDEM6s8hdMksyJuhWyWHvZoSWhX3p9oFcywhekP53LVLw3/s678/cant%20nutrition.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="678" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrX6yzvr9LYSEufmjEriRuqvKNTrCe_JaBMeGDJGRWkZ7H7g7aC5nyBBxbOJIyCRrxRrsPwnxXYXgcHcVDvxmYz0F0J1UwuleXzuhHkCd5xHBelUDpUZEp9pwP5JqLbnSN2ZaCNV2P7dIpUcmDEM6s8hdMksyJuhWyWHvZoSWhX3p9oFcywhekP53LVLw3/s320/cant%20nutrition.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169092/nutrients" target="_blank">USDA Agricultural Research Service</a></td></tr></tbody></table><text x="-9999" y="-9999"></text><span class="flex-grow flex-shrink-0 tabular-nums"></span><div class="flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3"><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full gap-3 gizmo:gap-0"><div class="min-h-[20px] text-message peer flex flex-col items-start gap-3 whitespace-pre-wrap break-words peer-[.text-message]:mt-5 overflow-x-auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="46af1b93-58e5-4822-9464-4d51e792a05c"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>Incorporating cantaloupes into your diet can offer various health benefits. A single serving, equivalent to one cup of fresh cantaloupe cubes, provides 53 calories, 6% of your daily fiber intake, approximately 1 gram of protein, and is free from both fat and cholesterol.</p><p>Moreover, cantaloupes are a low-carbohydrate fruit, containing 13 grams per one-cup serving. Opting for fruits low in carbohydrates enables you to consume larger portions while effectively managing your blood glucose levels.</p><p>Notably, cantaloupes are rich in essential nutrients, offering:</p><ul><li>100% of the daily value of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant safeguarding your cells from damage.<br /></li><li>The entirety of your daily vitamin A requirements, contributing to the health of your eyes, skin, bones, and immune system.</li></ul></div></div></div></div><div>In Washington State, cantaloupes may not take center stage like apples or
cherries, but it has quietly carved out a delicious niche in the state's
agricultural mosaic. With its unique sweetness, cantaloupes offer a refreshing
alternative to the more famous fruits of the region. Whether enjoyed fresh in
the warm Washington sun or incorporated into a delightful summer dish,
Washington cantaloupes represent a sweet and healthy surprise amidst the apple and cherry
orchards, reminding us that diversity in agriculture is a delicious and
valuable asset.</div>Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-40158627805432184072023-11-13T12:48:00.000-08:002023-11-13T13:19:02.141-08:00WSDA evaluates drought impact on Yakima Basin agriculture<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span><a href="mailto:kimberly.vaughn@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Kim Vaughn</a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span>Communications</span></span></div><p>Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and severity of drought events, potentially impacting our environment, including agriculture and water resources. Droughts and extreme weather events can have profound effects on the agricultural economy, leading to reduced crop yields, livestock losses, increased production costs, and disruptions in food supply chains. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Drought Assessment Tool (DAT)</h3><p>In 2015, the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) conducted an <a href="https://cms.agr.wa.gov/WSDAKentico/Documents/DO/NRAS/213-EstEconImpactsDroughtYakBasinIrrigDistReport.pdf?_gl=1*g7dzth*_ga*MTk0MjI0NjMxMC4xNjg1NzI0OTA4*_ga_9JCK8SVQPE*MTY5OTkwNzUzMi42OC4xLjE2OTk5MDc3MTguMC4wLjA." target="_blank">assessment</a> to quantify drought impacts on agricultural revenue. This was after 85% of Washington State experienced “extreme drought status” in August 2015. Based on this assessment, WSDA recommended a clear economic foundation for future analyses. </p><p>To improve understanding of drought impacts, WSDA contracted with the University of California, Merced to develop a drought assessment tool to model agricultural production and water use in agriculturally-dominated watersheds in the state. </p><p>The tool models agricultural production and water use to estimate the economic impacts of drought at the watershed and statewide levels. In the model, WSDA can modify irrigation water, cropland, prices, and yields to evaluate the potential impacts of drought events and policy decisions. </p><p>The DAT was used in a study to evaluate two drought scenarios in the Yakima Basin. The study focuses on irrigators who do not receive their full water supply during drought, also known as proratables. </p><p>The two scenarios modeled are: </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p>1.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>70% of normal irrigation water supply, and </p><p>2.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>50% of normal irrigation water supply. </p></blockquote><p>The two water supply scenarios were selected to evaluate impact mitigation associated with the <a href="https://yakimabasinintegratedplan.org/" target="_blank">Yakima Basin Integrated Plan</a> (YBIP) implementation. A primary driver of the YBIP is to increase surface water storage to offset expected losses of snowpack due to climate change. </p><p>One of the YBIP’s goals is to supply proratable water users with 70% of their full water allocation during drought events. The supply scenarios are used to understand the economic benefits of ensuring 70% water supply in water-short years. During the most recent snowpack deficit drought of 2015, the end-of-season allocation to proratable water users was 47%. By comparing 50% and 70% water supply, we can estimate the economic losses that might be avoided if the YBIP goal of 70% water supply is met. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Model results<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjptC0tJXJ7VVBtMFSuw06MW7YyqtlLb-KNErKqtv4jQN0Hp166xsxKKJNsdwxCTLVDgF9I4Xnx0f0jtk7OhQymxGgFEuNZRvRG2YFLmdjHtGmSu7tAcGSFIAecDDo01oO0fNmq7c4Cc2gK71oyLE5mON1i2QV29BxgJ4jpxPRPaUlmDke9nDQ0YYaaTg5c/s1700/174-YakimaProratableIrrigationInfographic_small2.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1700" data-original-width="1100" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjptC0tJXJ7VVBtMFSuw06MW7YyqtlLb-KNErKqtv4jQN0Hp166xsxKKJNsdwxCTLVDgF9I4Xnx0f0jtk7OhQymxGgFEuNZRvRG2YFLmdjHtGmSu7tAcGSFIAecDDo01oO0fNmq7c4Cc2gK71oyLE5mON1i2QV29BxgJ4jpxPRPaUlmDke9nDQ0YYaaTg5c/w259-h400/174-YakimaProratableIrrigationInfographic_small2.jpg" width="259" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://cms.agr.wa.gov/WSDAKentico/Documents/DO/NRAS/174-YakimaProratableIrrigationInfographic.pdf?_gl=1*7u3myi*_ga*MTk0MjI0NjMxMC4xNjg1NzI0OTA4*_ga_9JCK8SVQPE*MTY5OTkwNzUzMi42OC4xLjE2OTk5MTAxNTguMC4wLjA." target="_blank">Download this infographic.</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></h3><p>The two scenarios, 70% and 50% of water supply, were evaluated to understand the potential impacts of drought in the Yakima Basin. The model indicates that reducing water supply results in varying levels of impact on the producer’s revenue, employment, and the region’s economy. </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>In the 70% water supply scenario:</li><ul><li>Total producer revenue decreased by 7.3% to 19.4% </li><li>$161 million to $424 million decrease <br /><br /></li></ul><li>In the 50% water supply scenario:</li><ul><li>Total producer revenue decreased by 18.1% to 30.4% </li><li>$397 million to $668 million decrease </li></ul></ul><p></p><p>The model results estimate significantly higher impacts on producer revenue at 50% water supply as compared to 70% water supply. For example, at 70% water supply apple producers experienced revenue losses between 4% and 18% whereas at 50% water supply, apple producers experienced losses in revenue between 10% and 27%.</p><p style="text-align: left;">The losses associated with reducing water supply to 50% are significant. For example, grape producers are projected to lose between 77% to 88% in revenue. A 50% water supply scenario could result in losses (to the whole economy) as high as $1.1 billion in revenue and up to 10,309 jobs.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Conclusion</h3><p style="text-align: left;">The YBIP aims to increase surface water storage and enhance water conservation to improve drought resiliency. One of the YBIP’s goals is to provide proratable water users with a 70% water supply during drought events. </p><p>To understand the potential impact of reaching the YBIP’s water supply goals, WSDA employed the DAT model to compare the impacts of 50% and 70% water supply scenarios. </p><p>Estimated losses at 50% water supply are between 58% and 146% higher than estimated losses at 70% water supply. These results indicate that reaching the YBIP’s goal to ensure 70% water supply during drought events could reduce economic losses by up to $406 million and retain over 3,700 jobs reliant on agriculture. Implementing the YBIP could reduce total economic losses by 11% across all metrics. </p><p>The reduction in losses estimated through these scenarios demonstrates the value of the investments made by local, state, and federal governments. If the YBIP water supply projects are not implemented, additional losses to revenue, value-added, and jobs are anticipated. With drought events expected to increase in frequency and severity under future climate scenarios, integrated water management solutions are needed to enhance drought resiliency. The YBIP and similar strategies in other basins have the potential to significantly reduce drought impacts to the agricultural economy. </p><p><a href="https://cms.agr.wa.gov/WSDAKentico/Documents/DO/NRAS/213-EstEconImpactsDroughtYakBasinIrrigDistReport.pdf?_gl=1*rag905*_ga*MTk0MjI0NjMxMC4xNjg1NzI0OTA4*_ga_9JCK8SVQPE*MTY5OTkwNzUzMi42OC4wLjE2OTk5MDc1MzIuMC4wLjA." target="_blank">Download the full report here</a>. </p><div><br /></div>Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-75441731905922560922023-11-07T08:37:00.001-08:002023-11-07T08:42:29.432-08:00Cauliflower: A cruciferous crop worth celebrating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzd6hYOl0autOHVSp05Ib2MDldWYCihSJ5Lu2kQHygi3MT9UZw5iQjDCIWQczGc9s_WMkoEAvB_ZRc_sqXAV85wfq_vNgztE88FgnVP4msowwF55ZWFnKek8-znWFTC9LAdUphjnr_lAfa-EMpamOE0TlWyhv-Ol3rQl7npHa0M8ZQFwmLeWUbLB9fvRw/s1200/WACrops%20Feature_Cauliflower.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzd6hYOl0autOHVSp05Ib2MDldWYCihSJ5Lu2kQHygi3MT9UZw5iQjDCIWQczGc9s_WMkoEAvB_ZRc_sqXAV85wfq_vNgztE88FgnVP4msowwF55ZWFnKek8-znWFTC9LAdUphjnr_lAfa-EMpamOE0TlWyhv-Ol3rQl7npHa0M8ZQFwmLeWUbLB9fvRw/s320/WACrops%20Feature_Cauliflower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="mailto:kimberly.vaughn@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Kim Vaughn<br /></a><span>Communications</span></span></p><p>Washington State, known for its fertile soil and diverse agricultural landscape, has gained recognition for a wide range of crops. Among these, cauliflower stands as a versatile and nutritious vegetable that thrives in the state's favorable growing conditions. In this blog, we'll delve into the world of cauliflower, exploring its cultivation, unique attributes, as well as its nutritional value and why it's a favored choice in low-carb diets.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Cauliflower growing requirements</h3><p>Cauliflower thrives in cool weather when daytime temperatures are between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit. It tends to be more sensitive to heat than its cousin broccoli. It does best when planted mid-summer for a fall harvest. </p><p><i>Brassicas</i>, in general, grow best in fertile, well-drained soils. The pH should be between 6-7 to discourage clubroot disease and maximize nutrient uptake. An 8-16-16 fertilizer will help cauliflower thrive. Space your plants 24” apart with 30” between rows. Gathering and tying the leaves when the head starts to form helps ensure the crop will be white and tender. One to 1½ inches of water a week will suffice. Harvest your crop before the leaves begin to turn yellow and before the buds start to separate. The plant will continue to produce offshoots if leaves are still present.</p><p>The biggest pest problem with cauliflower, and all <i>brassicas</i>, are those pesky cabbage worms. You can read more about them in our <a href="https://wastatedeptag.blogspot.com/2023/08/Broccoli-2023.html" target="_blank">broccoli blog</a>. Other challenging pests include cabbage root maggot, aphids, flea beetles, blackleg black rot, clubroot, and yellows. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Favorite Washington varieties</h3><p>Washington's cauliflower fields flourish with a variety of cauliflower types, each offering its unique taste and texture. Favorite varieties grown by Washington farmers include:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Snowball</b> <br />A favorite with Washington farmers, Snowball is known for its compact, snowy-white curds and is widely grown in the state. <br />Matures in about 50-60 days.</li><li><b>Synergy F1</b> <br />Synergy forms a dense, firm head and performs well in the fall. <br />Matures in about 75 days.</li><li><b>Bishop F1</b><br />An outstanding vigorous late-season variety that forms bright white heads. <br />Matures in about 75-80 days.</li></ul><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Unique varieties</h3><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Cheddar</b><br />This vibrant orange cauliflower variety not only catches the eye but also offers a slightly nutty flavor, adding a pop of color to dishes.</li><li><b>Purple</b><br />The purple cauliflower variety is rich in antioxidants, making it not only visually striking but also a healthy addition to any meal.</li><li><b>Romanesco</b><br />With its mesmerizing fractal-shaped florets, Romanesco cauliflower is a favorite among chefs for its unique appearance and nutty flavor.</li><li><b>Green</b><br />Green cauliflower, sometimes referred to as "Broccoflower," is a cross between cauliflower and broccoli, offering a milder, slightly sweeter taste.</li></ul><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJkmotsD2oV_y-IjU4Xjfqj8vxxT21DeZlAPRxCEaPn9e2Ny10t5B-ggvvxvnFMEAb1dBtSzWkyTcRmxOPFiJGVgA30PHy6zAkDROEpSFBb12ZUKruvzwrAkF8oeKPmhRne4GPQDnOd-I4avev1Q1qGXuC8QilPt22Q6kvIrW52H_2LSCWf997LrU1rRR1/s1680/cauliflower%20varieties.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="1680" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJkmotsD2oV_y-IjU4Xjfqj8vxxT21DeZlAPRxCEaPn9e2Ny10t5B-ggvvxvnFMEAb1dBtSzWkyTcRmxOPFiJGVgA30PHy6zAkDROEpSFBb12ZUKruvzwrAkF8oeKPmhRne4GPQDnOd-I4avev1Q1qGXuC8QilPt22Q6kvIrW52H_2LSCWf997LrU1rRR1/w640-h168/cauliflower%20varieties.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Nutritional information</h3><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yXPBayJ1ZpXMBlQhuBC0ZXksvzV7BGrBgdm4x-QPGXlZDMG6MUymJ-eOrDQuxvNC5-vvCruYBMSTAaqAkZVFjRUAtInzrMFuYjFt00CGErMviiICWdY1Cq1LdTCgGqmLVRxPcvoqVWNQZlk22Qj7bCyq9xrt75SCc36uas4q9GroFSw7Lfl2GVkz62Fw/s757/Cauliflower%20nutrition%20facts.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="757" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yXPBayJ1ZpXMBlQhuBC0ZXksvzV7BGrBgdm4x-QPGXlZDMG6MUymJ-eOrDQuxvNC5-vvCruYBMSTAaqAkZVFjRUAtInzrMFuYjFt00CGErMviiICWdY1Cq1LdTCgGqmLVRxPcvoqVWNQZlk22Qj7bCyq9xrt75SCc36uas4q9GroFSw7Lfl2GVkz62Fw/w320-h272/Cauliflower%20nutrition%20facts.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169986/nutrients" target="_blank">USDA Agricultural Research Service</a> </td></tr></tbody></table>Good news for those following low-carb, ketogenic, and Paleo diets. Cauliflower has become popular as a substitute for starchier foods like rice and pizza dough. Cauliflower’s versatility as a non-starchy, high fiber alternative to breads is great whether you eat it raw, roasted, or riced, cauliflower offers a lot of bang for your nutritional buck.<p></p><p>In conclusion, the versatile cauliflower has found a well-deserved home in the rich agricultural landscape of Washington State. This cruciferous crop thrives in the state's favorable growing conditions, thanks to its preference for cool weather and well-drained, fertile soils. </p><p>Moreover, cauliflower's nutritional profile is noteworthy, making it a favorite among those following low-carb diets and a popular choice for health-conscious individuals.</p>Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-83152626571229984992023-10-31T12:13:00.000-07:002023-10-31T12:13:08.683-07:00 Halloween pumpkins: A festive fall tradition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLT3EA5sJ3YpmPWGwvXZTI39UCdyKrjq5ZbFfUCx8YKtnJRXnfxeNkxp4IR24ABCyWlir3JjcJlar1JknNsYLQdGJmeUbsFZTFWT5ZySnMi2BpGhZ2V68-dXH-ztEpEkQYj1dAj3PjgldWxQzlJrPpj8cneygC_1pXLQ_mgqeRT4y2rozBNAteG1a-C5MZ/s1200/WACrops%20Feature_Pumpkin.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLT3EA5sJ3YpmPWGwvXZTI39UCdyKrjq5ZbFfUCx8YKtnJRXnfxeNkxp4IR24ABCyWlir3JjcJlar1JknNsYLQdGJmeUbsFZTFWT5ZySnMi2BpGhZ2V68-dXH-ztEpEkQYj1dAj3PjgldWxQzlJrPpj8cneygC_1pXLQ_mgqeRT4y2rozBNAteG1a-C5MZ/s320/WACrops%20Feature_Pumpkin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="mailto:kimberly.vaughn@agr.wa.gov" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Kim Vaughn<br /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Communications</span><br /><p>Washington state comes alive with the spirit of Halloween during the fall season. As autumn settles in, the farmlands transform into a sea of orange as pumpkin patches open their gates to eager visitors. From the coastal regions to the eastern plains, visitors can explore the fields to find the perfect pumpkin, enjoy hayrides, and even get lost in the challenging corn mazes. In this short blog, we'll explore the enchanting world of Halloween pumpkins in Washington State.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Growing pumpkins in Washington state</h3><p>In Washington, you want to plant your pumpkin seeds in late May to early July. The ideal temperature range for pumpkins is 55-60 degrees. Vines can reach up to 30 feet so allow for ample space. Most pumpkins need 90<span style="color: #111111; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">-</span></span>120 days to mature. </p><p>A member of the <i>Cucurbitaceae</i> family, the pumpkin’s relatives are the cucumber, watermelon, and even the loofa! Pumpkins are native to the Americas and archaeological digs in the southwest and Mexico have unearthed evidence of growing pumpkins dating back to 5,000 B.C. They eventually made their way into European cuisines. </p><p>For making pies and other delectables, you want to look for smaller, rounder varieties that have a sweeter taste and tend to have a thicker flesh.</p><p>The best kind of pumpkins for carving are the large field pumpkins. They tend to be stringy, but the seeds can be roasted with a bit of salt for a delicious treat. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Origin of the Jack-o-lantern</h3><p>The origin of jack-o'-lanterns is a fascinating journey rooted in ancient Celtic and Irish traditions. The practice can be traced back to the Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated around 2,000 years ago. Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, and the Celts believed it was a time when the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred, with malevolent spirits roaming the earth. To ward off these spirits, the Celts carved frightening faces into turnips and other root vegetables, placing candles or other light sources inside them. These carved vegetables were believed to both protect homes and light the way for the souls of the deceased. The term "jack-o'-lantern" itself originated from an Irish folktale about a man named Stingy Jack who was said to have tricked the devil. As the tradition spread, it eventually evolved to the use of pumpkins, which were more readily available in the United States, giving rise to the iconic Halloween decoration we know today.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Pumpkin contest</h3><p>If you haven’t noticed by now, we love Halloween at WSDA. This year, WSDA held a pumpkin carving contest in partnership with <a href="https://www.wagrown.com/" target="_blank">Washington Grown</a>. Carvers entered their pumpkins by posting their photos to social media using the hashtag #WAPumpkinContest, tagged WSDA and WAGrown, then submitted their photos on the <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/contest">WSDA contest website</a> for a chance to win a $250 grocery gift card! This year's winner was Ethan Estalilla for his cool leaf pumpkin (far right photo). Congratulations Ethan!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4D9TXxYF9InkSoDCgrww23CvDdqx0Gkm2rccXfqGYBzxjWIGp6uF8V4nOb9lFm2gdMt1YPFzru9aLhi3wcwYlGSGCqqV-FBH7NZL1ghPEmuye8PXrwmrrig4cLWDJgVf3GJXMuzs6JikHcxXSQNA-lTACWhWIEOqx6i_PhpVwBnwHr1y21Hs5VDLwc2F/s1623/pumpkin%20contest.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="1623" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4D9TXxYF9InkSoDCgrww23CvDdqx0Gkm2rccXfqGYBzxjWIGp6uF8V4nOb9lFm2gdMt1YPFzru9aLhi3wcwYlGSGCqqV-FBH7NZL1ghPEmuye8PXrwmrrig4cLWDJgVf3GJXMuzs6JikHcxXSQNA-lTACWhWIEOqx6i_PhpVwBnwHr1y21Hs5VDLwc2F/w640-h202/pumpkin%20contest.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>Halloween season is a time when communities come together to celebrate the beauty and bounty of the fall harvest. From family trips to the pumpkin patch to enjoying pumpkin-spiced treats and participating in traditional carving contests, pumpkins are woven into the very fabric of the autumn tapestry. So, whether you're an enthusiast for all things pumpkin or simply seeking to embrace the charm of fall, pumpkin culture has something for everyone. </p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>Happy Halloween!</b></h4>Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-46877213494604870042023-10-24T09:15:00.000-07:002023-10-24T09:15:56.520-07:00The crisp charm of Washington apples <div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="mailto:kimberly.vaughn@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Kim Vaughn<br /></a>Communications</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY9fPxh6wv9pMh8cIMh8_NUaBvoRHevxuoq1Neo_zvO-Z4lD5jFYhSPSNEoe9HSNYuUSnGZTIHbPa_G3SDRDh-gC77tgNoFJBTuzVVDa-vJrgopbnFCZYSAfcI9bu8tXepFjS4s9wwkGQ65UjR6HQOHHI1urhApjBXik2HGZtGqgKal43vs1IvyBgni-9r/s1200/WACrops%20Feature_Apples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY9fPxh6wv9pMh8cIMh8_NUaBvoRHevxuoq1Neo_zvO-Z4lD5jFYhSPSNEoe9HSNYuUSnGZTIHbPa_G3SDRDh-gC77tgNoFJBTuzVVDa-vJrgopbnFCZYSAfcI9bu8tXepFjS4s9wwkGQ65UjR6HQOHHI1urhApjBXik2HGZtGqgKal43vs1IvyBgni-9r/s320/WACrops%20Feature_Apples.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Washington state, with its diverse climate, fertile soil, and dedicated orchardists, is renowned as the "Apple State." In this blog, we'll explore the rich history and delightful diversity of apples in Washington, as well as some interesting facts and reasons why these apples are so special.</div><div><br /></div><div><span><h3 style="text-align: left;">Washington's apple legacy</h3><div>Washington's love affair with apples began in the 1820s when the first orchard was planted, and pioneers and settlers recognized the region's potential for apple cultivation. There are five main growing regions in the state. They are:</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Okanogan</li><li>Lake Chelan</li><li>Wenatchee Valley</li><li>Columbia Basin</li><li>Yakima Valley</li></ol></div><div>Today, there are over 175,000 acres of apple orchards, averaging around 100 acres in size, although some orchards are as big as 5,000 acres. It takes an estimated 40,000 pickers to harvest all of Washington’s apples. Washington’s apples are shipped to over 60 countries and according to the <a href="https://waapple.org/" target="_blank">Washington Apple Commission</a> is the largest apple-producing state in the United States! </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">A bounty of varieties</h3><div>Washington’s apple orchards are home to more than 2,000 apple varieties, but a few have gained international acclaim. The most famous include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Red Delicious:</b> Known for its iconic, bright red color and sweet, juicy flesh, the Red Delicious is one of the most recognized apples in the world.<br /></li><li><b>Gala:</b> With its crisp texture and a unique combination of sweet and slightly tart flavors, Gala apples are a popular choice for fresh snacking.<br /></li><li><b>Honeycrisp:</b> This apple variety has taken the world by storm with its perfect balance of sweetness, juiciness, and crispness.<br /></li><li><b>Granny Smith:</b> Loved for its tartness, this green apple is a go-to for baking, making apple pies, or enjoying as a refreshing snack.<br /></li><li><b>Fuji: </b>Originally from Japan but now a Washington favorite, Fuji apples are sweet, crunchy, and perfect for salads or eating fresh.<br /></li><li><b>Pink Lady: </b>With its distinctive pink skin and crisp, tart-sweet flavor, Pink Lady apples add a splash of color and zest to any dish.</li></ul></div><div>For top-quality apples suitable for <a href="https://waapple.org/varieties/" target="_blank">pie-making, cider production, snacking</a>, or essential <a href="https://waapple.org/apple-care-how-to/" target="_blank">tree maintenance tips</a>, explore the <a href="https://waapple.org/" target="_blank">Washington Apple Commission's website</a> for more details.</div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodvcll7lRoNNGjjjWzfknMczYUDhdWpxiou2uHinRDshH3AJgxia3qTaFe-HR3UQFoBSEXGheQvwSXtyv9-keIISB5DlZscuDZgLyHGQakxHV_3YraI0Cal_vk7MuF6BruBjYYUxULFyZ2mcYB1u7lGuR5ZdsOcGn5Y80eAlyEc0G1RsYbSL7qFWLSi_r/s1599/varieties.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="1599" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodvcll7lRoNNGjjjWzfknMczYUDhdWpxiou2uHinRDshH3AJgxia3qTaFe-HR3UQFoBSEXGheQvwSXtyv9-keIISB5DlZscuDZgLyHGQakxHV_3YraI0Cal_vk7MuF6BruBjYYUxULFyZ2mcYB1u7lGuR5ZdsOcGn5Y80eAlyEc0G1RsYbSL7qFWLSi_r/w640-h286/varieties.png" width="640" /></a></div></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">The healthier choice</h3><div>Did you know that eating one large apple provides 20% of the recommended daily value of dietary fiber, 8% of the antioxidant Vitamin C, and 7% of your day’s potassium? All that deliciousness is packed into only 130 calories — with no fat, no sodium, and no cholesterol.</div><div><br /></div><div>The USDA’s dietary guidelines recommend eating two cups of fresh fruit a day. That’s the equivalent of:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>2 small apples, or</li><li>1 large apple, or</li><li>2 cups of sliced or diced apples.<br /><br /></li></ul></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Washington apple pride: Nurturing the nation's best</h3><div>Washington State's apple orchards are not just a source of economic prosperity, but also a symbol of pride and a source of joy for the locals. These apples have a unique combination of flavor, crispness, and sweetness that sets them apart. Whether you're munching on a Red Delicious while hiking in the Cascades or enjoying a Honeycrisp at a local farmer's market, Washington's apples will leave an unforgettable taste in your mouth. Washington is proud to be the top producer of apples in the country!</div><div><br /></div></span></div>Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-38602485841368441892023-10-19T08:00:00.002-07:002023-10-19T08:55:25.628-07:00Bird flu returns, flock owners urged to enhance safety measures<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi86mzqdcZu-2uz5CDoXqCmms76wLXU0-gUaRxZob-fDVCOXR_baMC8HJ3dJ1OF8hvbsZ3hySZlKvoxovD5LApQ-x498wWXsHRwpzlwTI1Nwh4ms7GT32yI85x-nIs1yyaSEDIdJb6xzZ7E7mR3Zod5Ix8TGf3QjQMfEawYv2DljRMsWHOikQk4OEzuNbBS/s720/ChickenEatingPumpkin-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="720" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi86mzqdcZu-2uz5CDoXqCmms76wLXU0-gUaRxZob-fDVCOXR_baMC8HJ3dJ1OF8hvbsZ3hySZlKvoxovD5LApQ-x498wWXsHRwpzlwTI1Nwh4ms7GT32yI85x-nIs1yyaSEDIdJb6xzZ7E7mR3Zod5Ix8TGf3QjQMfEawYv2DljRMsWHOikQk4OEzuNbBS/s320/ChickenEatingPumpkin-small.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Even with the spring and summer-long respite, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is once again on the move as wild birds migrate south to warmer climates. This poses a threat to domestic flocks, making the adoption of enhanced measures of biosecurity crucial in minimizing detections. Biosecurity is the essential practice that attempts to control the introduction and spread of disease.<p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Since February 2022, HPAI H5N1 has been circulating throughout the United States, with a new domestic backyard detection in King County <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/animals-livestock-and-pets/avian-health/avian-influenza/bird-flu-2022-23">reported this week by Washington State Department of Agriculture</a> veterinarians.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">To protect poultry flocks from accidental exposure to HPAI, biosecurity remains critical. Dr. Amber Itle, the Washington State Veterinarian, urges bird owners to continue taking extra biosecurity measures. She emphasizes that the biggest risk factor to date is direct contact with wild waterfowl, which increases the environmental viral load and the risk of transmission to domestic flocks.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">There have also been reports of mammals contracting the virus, <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-found-seals-marrowstone-island-puget-sound">most recently in seals</a>. All around the state and surrounding areas, cases of HPAI have been found <a href="https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/diseases/bird-flu">in wild birds</a> and <a href="https://inspection.canada.ca/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/diseases/reportable/avian-influenza/latest-bird-flu-situation/status-of-ongoing-avian-influenza-response/ai-zones/eng/1648851134912/1648851359195#commercial-pcz-iz">in domestic flocks in Canada.</a> This means the virus is in the environment. Biosecurity is a critical to protect our flocks.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://poultrybiosecurity.org/">Enhanced biosecurity</a> not only safeguards flocks but also preserves farms from diseases like HPAI.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">“By implementing robust biosecurity protocols, we can mitigate the spread of HPAI and ensure the health and well-being of our poultry industry,” Dr. Itle added.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Additional biosecurity measures include:</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Separate domestic birds from wild birds</li><li>Separate domestic poultry from domestic waterfowl</li><li>Discourage wild birds from coming near your flocks</li><li>Only feed domestic birds indoors and remove feed at night (when wild birds often feed)</li><li>Lock up your flock’s feed in containers with lids</li><li>Remove bird feeders that might attract wild waterfowl</li><li>Fence off the ponds</li><li>Cover the chicken yard with netting</li></ul><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Veterinarians urge bird owners to stay vigilant and take the necessary steps to protect your flocks and ultimately the food supply. If detections spread to commercial flocks, the supply of food in our state could be impacted, along with the price for these products.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt;">WSDA reminds flock owners of the <a href="https://arcg.is/05KT8S">domestic sick bird online reporting tool</a>. The online tool complements the existing WSDA sick bird reporting hotline as well as the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s <a href="https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/a384e90f69744f2e846135a9ce80027f">online reporting tool for wild birds</a>. Owners are urged to report sick birds to the state veterinarian’s office and help keep bird flu at bay.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Visit <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/birdflu">agr.wa.gov/birdflu</a> to stay current on bird flu detections and get biosecurity tips. </p>Amber Bettshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01843621452991356100noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-12402700048071006482023-10-12T09:59:00.000-07:002023-10-17T09:50:02.054-07:00Eggplant delights in Washington State<p><a href="mailto:daniel.f.schafer@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Daniel Schafer</a><br />Communications</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-6PkS1aiRLP0h5IacFKK0Ww5T0m97dvVJXxPRqeneK-wUbSwv2WhyphenhyphenwfI22ThK2Sq0lwb6OW-kJ4SnhN6yQ-R75H2D6CsCJW3mhxU6XwJl0-7vJLlgsMch2yrlu3wEauVYDmcesoBiN18u5JB_LQdZj260IU_yw9rCMwhGMYzC-FlymiHuc_qOjo7Q2VR/s1200/WACrops%20Feature_Eggplant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-6PkS1aiRLP0h5IacFKK0Ww5T0m97dvVJXxPRqeneK-wUbSwv2WhyphenhyphenwfI22ThK2Sq0lwb6OW-kJ4SnhN6yQ-R75H2D6CsCJW3mhxU6XwJl0-7vJLlgsMch2yrlu3wEauVYDmcesoBiN18u5JB_LQdZj260IU_yw9rCMwhGMYzC-FlymiHuc_qOjo7Q2VR/s320/WACrops%20Feature_Eggplant.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Eggplant, known for its deep purple hue and versatile
culinary applications, can be a delightful addition to your plate or your
garden. In this blog, we'll delve into the particulars of growing eggplants in
Washington, and why they deserve to be this week’s Washington Crop Spotlight. <o:p></o:p><p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Eggplant production</h2><p class="MsoNormal">Eggplant production in the United States has been steadily increasing over the years. In 2019, the U.S. produced over 580,000 metric tons of it for an estimated value of $81 million, according to the <a href="https://www.agmrc.org/commodities-products/vegetables/eggplants" target="_blank">Agricultural Marketing Resource Center</a>. And while Americans eat just over one pound of it per year on average, it’s not one of the premier Washington crops. But as we’ll see in the next section, that doesn’t mean you can’t add it to your Pacific Northwest garden.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Ideal environmental conditions and soil quality</h2><p class="MsoNormal">Eggplants, scientifically known as Solanum melongena, thrive in warm, sunny climates. In tropical climates they can be grown as a perennial. Washington State's climate is diverse, which means we grow our eggplants as annuals. But they can be successfully grown in regions with a long growing season nevertheless, particularly in <a href="https://mynorthwestgarden.com/home/eggplant" target="_blank">Eastern Washington</a>, where they can get the long string of hot days needed to thrive. </p><p class="MsoNormal">To ensure optimal growth, plant eggplants in well-drained soil with a pH around 6.0-6.5. They require a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day and protection from strong winds, as they are sensitive to extreme weather conditions.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Health benefits of eating eggplants</h2><p class="MsoNormal">Eggplants are not only delicious but also offer a range of health benefits. They are low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber. Rich in antioxidants, such as nasunin, eggplants can help protect cells from damage. They also contain important nutrients like potassium, which can contribute to heart health. Additionally, the skin of eggplants is loaded with chlorogenic acid, known for its potential to lower blood pressure and manage diabetes. Including eggplants in your diet can be a flavorful way to promote your overall well-being.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Explore Washington-grown eggplants</h2><p class="MsoNormal">Coupled with their rich flavor and health benefits, eggplants make an excellent addition to your garden or shopping list. What’s more, you can savor the taste of local, freshly picked eggplants and support Washington's agriculture by visiting a u-pick farm. <a href="https://www.pickyourown.org/eggplant-farms/WA-eggplants.php" target="_blank">Check out this website</a> to find a u-pick farm near you!</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-82650474569667363572023-10-10T08:00:00.007-07:002023-10-10T15:56:55.113-07:00Washington’s sweet corn surprise<p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="mailto:daniel.schafer@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Daniel Schafer</a><br />Communications</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWpLGvV7G4MCpuW869OQF1TsM9dTfTNuKCpVYP-iL0YZyW9JG9AmMQ-RYPmA1nwmXZ7_UtAWOM5WDK1xiikTRq71UBbxA2ap74J1esl4zchdDzZ_9ck1i1czPPL6ydYfZZWq78BEqiYKzvnXpt1rZ1x5RsSfFm4P0dbn79gsdz-Cd3AFW2lXmPVi_EVzA/s1200/WACrops%20Feature_Corn.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWpLGvV7G4MCpuW869OQF1TsM9dTfTNuKCpVYP-iL0YZyW9JG9AmMQ-RYPmA1nwmXZ7_UtAWOM5WDK1xiikTRq71UBbxA2ap74J1esl4zchdDzZ_9ck1i1czPPL6ydYfZZWq78BEqiYKzvnXpt1rZ1x5RsSfFm4P0dbn79gsdz-Cd3AFW2lXmPVi_EVzA/s320/WACrops%20Feature_Corn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />You might think of corn as a distinctly midwestern crop. Drive through Illinois or Iowa and you’ll see field after field of it. But corn is an ancient grain with roots in the western hemisphere. According to the <a href="https://www.si.edu/newsdesk/releases/ancient-dna-continues-rewrite-corns-9000-year-society-shaping-history" target="_blank">Smithsonian Institute</a>, “Humans first started selectively breeding corn’s wild ancestor teosinte around 9,000 years ago in Mexico.” The story of corn is a fascinating one, especially because it has become a central crop for the United States. In fact, it is grown in every state. In this blog, we’ll explore corn’s role in Washington agriculture.<p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Sweet corn and field corn</h2><p>The reason you might see so much corn on a road trip across the United States is that it’s <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/business-and-marketing-support/farm-to-school-toolkit/wa-grown-food-recipe-kit/foodtoolkit/items/vegetables/corn/materials-and-info" target="_blank">the number one field crop in the country</a> in terms of production. But there are two main types of corn: sweet corn and field corn, and each has its own uses. Sweet corn is eaten fresh, and it’s the type you get at the grocery store in the can or from the freezer section. Meanwhile, field corn is used to produce products like cornmeal. It’s also used for cattle feed and ethanol.</p><p>It’s primarily field corn that is grown in the fields of Illinois and Iowa. Meanwhile, Minnesota, Washington, and Wisconsin are the <a href="https://www.agmrc.org/commodities-products/vegetables/sweet-corn" target="_blank">top three states for sweet corn production</a>.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Washington's sweet corn</h2><p><a href="https://quickstats.nass.usda.gov/results/6FBC8F34-E4D2-3012-97A9-A578E8C0828A" target="_blank">Grant County leads the way</a> in sweet corn production in Washington, but farms across the state grow it. In fact, in 2022 Washington farmers harvested 69,500 acres of sweet corn on the way to a total production of 14,565,800 CWT and a total production value of $114,173,000, <a href="https://www.nass.usda.gov/Quick_Stats/Ag_Overview/stateOverview.php?state=WASHINGTON" target="_blank">according to USDA</a>.</p><p>But it’s not just the production value that makes sweet corn important to Washington farms. That’s because it’s a <a href="https://magazine.wsu.edu/2013/07/31/washingtons-sweet-corn-secret/" target="_blank">rotation crop</a> — one that’s used to give soil time to regenerate after growing other crops. In Washington, those crops are often potatoes or wheat.</p><p>Much of the sweet corn grown in Washington — <a href="https://www.nass.usda.gov/Quick_Stats/Ag_Overview/stateOverview.php?state=WASHINGTON" target="_blank">about 87%</a> — is processed. That is, it’s canned or frozen. You can learn more about how corn is processed by watching this clip from Washington Grown:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BkmQPekjPLQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="BkmQPekjPLQ"></iframe></div><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Try Washington sweet corn this season — or enjoy it later!</h2><p>We said earlier that there are two main types of corn, but there are many specific varieties. One thing they all have in common, though, is that they’re a great source of <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/business-and-marketing-support/farm-to-school-toolkit/wa-grown-food-recipe-kit/foodtoolkit/items/vegetables/corn/materials-and-info" target="_blank">vitamin C</a>. One of the great things about Washington sweet corn is that, even though its flavor is unbeatable when fresh, it still tastes great (and is good for you) from the can or out of the freezer. So whether you enjoy it fresh (we’re in the tail end of <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/getmedia/00847f74-ac10-4622-a308-035f644552fc/seasonalitycharthusscvegetablefinal.pdf" target="_blank">harvest season</a> now) or you store it away in your freezer to enjoy this winter, Washington sweet corn is always a great choice!</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-15893856408900871632023-10-09T07:30:00.010-07:002023-10-09T08:11:22.446-07:00The Flavor of Success: How Olympia Coffee found its way to South Korea with the help of WSDA<p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="mailto:daniel.schafer@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Daniel Schafer</a><br />Communications</span></p><p>Never underestimate the power of great coffee.</p><p>Washington is known for its great coffee — from Port Angeles to Spokane to Goldendale to Bellingham, we’ve got some of the best cafés in the world. But something special has been brewing in Olympia. Actually, I should say something special has been roasting. This is the story of a Washington business with global reach, and how Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) helped increase that reach, to share great coffee with the world. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Olympia Coffee: Transparent sourcing and top-quality roasting<br /></h2><p>Sam Schroeder and Oliver Stormshak purchased Olympia Coffee in 2010, though the pair had worked for the previous owners since 2005 and 2009 respectively. They sought “to create a strong independent coffee roaster in the heart of the Pacific Northwest that will bring our coffee culture into the twenty-first century,” according to <a href="https://www.olympiacoffee.com/pages/our-story" target="_blank">the company’s website</a>. Olympia Coffee has accomplished this, and they’ve also succeeded in creating a transparent, equitable business that has created valuable partnerships throughout the supply chain that provides the coffee beans they roast. You can learn more about Olympia’s Coffee’s process in this short documentary, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N_fAGU4NHw" target="_blank"><i>From the Source</i></a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3N_fAGU4NHw" width="320" youtube-src-id="3N_fAGU4NHw"></iframe></div><p></p><p>The combined efforts of Olympia Coffee and its partners have not gone unnoticed. The company has earned national acclaim, including first-place finishes in the 2023 U.S. Coffee Championships, where Co-owner Sam Schroeder won the <a href="https://uscoffeechampionships.org/coffee-in-good-spirits-qualifier-competition" target="_blank">Coffee in Good Spirits Championship</a> and one of Olympia Coffee’s team members, Jake Donaghy, won the <a href="https://uscoffeechampionships.org/cup-tasters-qualifier-competition" target="_blank">Cup Tasters Championship</a>.</p><p>Though Olympia Coffee has sourcing partnerships with farmers in Central America and South America, it was being named Micro-Roaster of the Year by <a href="https://www.roastmagazine.com/roasteroftheyear" target="_blank"><i>Roast Magazine</i></a> in 2013 that sparked a different kind of international partnership — this time, in South Korea. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">A new partnership </h2><p>In late 2012 <i>Roast Magazine</i> made the announcement. Its <a href="https://www.roastmagazine.com/roasteroftheyear" target="_blank">Micro-Roaster of the Year</a> would be Olympia Coffee. Though the award didn’t make national headlines, people in the coffee world noticed, including Jongseok Won, a café owner in Busan, South Korea. Mr. Won was intrigued by Olympia Coffee’s story and ordered some of the company’s beans from an overseas direct coffee-selling website called GoCoffeeGo.com. After trying the coffee, “he promptly fell in love with it and dreamed that someday he would bring it to Korea,” says Danny Kim, the WSDA’s South Korea representative. </p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJoh_MWMEqN_lhHUT8PWeUDUko6lJzdCXkuu50wsgdawN3daBaronUQyl7kldPxKc3B0-Bu4YWtdlIuwKnG8UwXArpw5gunCO_fYETTX7wElNeUpI47As9eZ8aEBiydc544OPwtcZdRm8A-9btU8zpax_64YjpVNWwj91FGpH-VWn0NV1M-V0UmJk_BXC/s1400/Condisco%20Coffee%201%20-%20Copy.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1400" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJoh_MWMEqN_lhHUT8PWeUDUko6lJzdCXkuu50wsgdawN3daBaronUQyl7kldPxKc3B0-Bu4YWtdlIuwKnG8UwXArpw5gunCO_fYETTX7wElNeUpI47As9eZ8aEBiydc544OPwtcZdRm8A-9btU8zpax_64YjpVNWwj91FGpH-VWn0NV1M-V0UmJk_BXC/s320/Condisco%20Coffee%201%20-%20Copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Condisco Coffee in Seoul, South Korea.</td></tr></tbody></table>In time, Mr. Won began preparations for a new café in Seoul — one that would serve exclusively<br /> Olympia Coffee. But making his dream a reality was a challenge. Mr. Won contacted Olympia Coffee via email, but both parties needed help navigating the export of products from the United States. That’s where Danny Kim comes into the story. With the help of Kim and the <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/business-and-marketing-support/international" target="_blank">WSDA International Marketing Program</a>, Won was able to connect with his partners in Washington and navigate the export process that would eventually bring Olympia Coffee to Seoul.<p></p><p>But the partnership would run even deeper. In February 2023 Danny Kim, who is based in South Korea, traveled with Mr. Won to Olympia to visit Olympia Coffee in person. The pair spent four days in Washington, learning about Olympia Coffee’s roasting process and visiting all its cafés because, as Danny Kim explains, “Mr. Won wanted to experience as much as possible and feel the philosophy of Olympia Coffee.” Then, in September, Olympia Coffee exported its first coffee shipment to South Korea, just in time for the grand opening of Condisco Coffee, Mr. Won’s new café in Seoul.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZnaWcG_AsoHGkR2c-28T7ITU9nGvxaxERQnPZuLOuufrJ9Szf4xH15fSbgTk584ySwueIFuZ0hF9ImYf_5RVLg6YY-Sl3tZCMfREx7B6Mxrm5TKws4bEU79X45bdr4Ge8KvS63-xE83-yqstQcJOHEQngADKXcud3ggFfNQ9g2c-w_BfE2DpkihmRDXe/s933/Condisco%20Coffee.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="933" data-original-width="713" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZnaWcG_AsoHGkR2c-28T7ITU9nGvxaxERQnPZuLOuufrJ9Szf4xH15fSbgTk584ySwueIFuZ0hF9ImYf_5RVLg6YY-Sl3tZCMfREx7B6Mxrm5TKws4bEU79X45bdr4Ge8KvS63-xE83-yqstQcJOHEQngADKXcud3ggFfNQ9g2c-w_BfE2DpkihmRDXe/w153-h200/Condisco%20Coffee.jpg" width="153" /></a></div>A model for the future</h2><p>The partnership between Olympia Coffee, Jongseok Won, and WSDA offers a model that can be applied again and again. When Washington producers like Olympia Coffee aim to expand internationally, it can be challenging to navigate the export process. But WSDA is a committed partner that can help producers connect with trade partners and share Washington’s products — and in this case, products that started in Central and South America — with the world. </p><p>To learn more, visit the <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/business-and-marketing-support/international" target="_blank">WSDA International Marketing webpage</a>. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-88607223058030258472023-10-05T07:30:00.012-07:002023-10-05T08:09:14.359-07:00Japanese scholars explore the heart of Washington agriculture with WSDA<p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="mailto:daniel.schafer@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Daniel Schafer</a><br />Communications</span></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6YbMbi_umei0NgrmN1H2sdSwLQ0Vo9BqnidhaAiCfQtLDSb4GOucPK_GlbN-ztfm7V4_Y55KuvhPSnVAXPi02Zs3ivXwuCu1-yXtv05zymd9tOylsTtdAQMYzEINUhqlPnYtXOy_A7kKfC3EL-uV2oIYYwQafTA2wZdwev2r-_O-vCE_upon48j9O1fH/s6000/Visitingstudentsapples-9.23.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Students practice apple inspection." border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6YbMbi_umei0NgrmN1H2sdSwLQ0Vo9BqnidhaAiCfQtLDSb4GOucPK_GlbN-ztfm7V4_Y55KuvhPSnVAXPi02Zs3ivXwuCu1-yXtv05zymd9tOylsTtdAQMYzEINUhqlPnYtXOy_A7kKfC3EL-uV2oIYYwQafTA2wZdwev2r-_O-vCE_upon48j9O1fH/w320-h213/Visitingstudentsapples-9.23.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students practice apple inspection.</td></tr></tbody></table>Students from Tokyo University of Agriculture visited Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) in Olympia on September 20th. The group of 23 students and two professors learned about Washington agriculture and WSDA’s work to connect Washington-grown products with the world.<p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Apples and international trade</h2><p>The day kicked off with an engaging session led by Rianne Ham, the agency’s <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/business-and-marketing-support/international/contacts" target="_blank">International Marketing Program</a> manager. Ham spoke to students about WSDA’s international marketing efforts as well as Washington’s key international trading partners.</p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1EaowjICALr38ZjZftu5xcEWdmp94ForUMK6GwiA1cWTuxbYNzfPM57eI8RhzhEbaXr7F4bqCftdkcjxZCIvJCULOtNC5Zu5pOxb5aR8_TYdlwBNg5YNP74akyu4CUEhR8R2JVSjWGkc5H0vxw8XvtBoX084HqjNCMZMgqXh2wv1360gQpcPFjzlOdhYD/s3800/Oli-Silva-9.2023%20-%20Cropped.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Olivier Silva demonstrates apple inspection." border="0" data-original-height="3800" data-original-width="2958" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1EaowjICALr38ZjZftu5xcEWdmp94ForUMK6GwiA1cWTuxbYNzfPM57eI8RhzhEbaXr7F4bqCftdkcjxZCIvJCULOtNC5Zu5pOxb5aR8_TYdlwBNg5YNP74akyu4CUEhR8R2JVSjWGkc5H0vxw8XvtBoX084HqjNCMZMgqXh2wv1360gQpcPFjzlOdhYD/w249-h320/Oli-Silva-9.2023%20-%20Cropped.jpg" width="249" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspection supervisor Olivier Silva.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Next, the visitors had the opportunity to learn about one of Washington’s most famous crops — apples. To begin, students and professors sampled several varieties, including Granny Smith, Fuji, Rockit, and more.<p></p><p>In addition to plenty of apple sampling, students had a hands-on lesson on how WSDA helps ensure the quality of its apple crops. Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Supervisor <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/services/inspections-and-investigations/inspections/fruit-and-vegetable/contact" target="_blank">Olivier Silva</a> taught students how to look for imperfections and damage on apples, and explained the process that apples are required to go through before leaving the processing facility.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Lessons in grain inspection</h2><p>The Olympia visit concluded with WSDA’s Grain Inspection Program Manager <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/services/inspections-and-investigations/inspections/grain-inspection/contacts" target="_blank">Philip Garcia</a> teaching students and faculty about grain inspection. Students received a hands-on lesson on gathering samples, spotting imperfections, and more. Following these demonstrations, Garcia also conducted a thorough question and answer session where students learned more about Washington’s export process and the wide variety of foods that are produced across our diverse state.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKN6n4AvvkpesIaODou7vo0E0i_vm47kTG4_Ge-0CnrCSBESqS4VRkgRHoLirbJZ4fmJxnzti2QR69MymzI5Tb6Jxr4zGgFj52DI3nFEIwUZ3winfrZD3Pi97CCY7zx3LQ6YGKOfTJcFFuHkeZEd9wf8S5To2sHwOJQ0YxJbPWJMSIdEh5Td0mBwxpDzxd/s3000/grain-inspection-collage.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Students practice grain inspection." border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="3000" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKN6n4AvvkpesIaODou7vo0E0i_vm47kTG4_Ge-0CnrCSBESqS4VRkgRHoLirbJZ4fmJxnzti2QR69MymzI5Tb6Jxr4zGgFj52DI3nFEIwUZ3winfrZD3Pi97CCY7zx3LQ6YGKOfTJcFFuHkeZEd9wf8S5To2sHwOJQ0YxJbPWJMSIdEh5Td0mBwxpDzxd/w400-h134/grain-inspection-collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students work with Grain Inspection Program Manger Phil Garcia to practice grain inspection.</td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">A statewide tour</h2><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHaJeosNXJIFL0tbjMTtlIMym00-N9bEUddBjVBeGlLMktx0-nJkYdOBU6Nr2iNYkfZiX3bkJg3Mz78kvNTKlvjkAY1Xd8ftcV4CCZsimwPsV6MhKLCBAPzN0GHDIzmvOKveU5_Lh9Epi3MWu6Ry9kW_qN6aGkryzzzt0DM413e7cCnfwt2t8xJVJGqTE/s2017/AllanBrosDrenchTank-923.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2017" data-original-width="1513" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHaJeosNXJIFL0tbjMTtlIMym00-N9bEUddBjVBeGlLMktx0-nJkYdOBU6Nr2iNYkfZiX3bkJg3Mz78kvNTKlvjkAY1Xd8ftcV4CCZsimwPsV6MhKLCBAPzN0GHDIzmvOKveU5_Lh9Epi3MWu6Ry9kW_qN6aGkryzzzt0DM413e7cCnfwt2t8xJVJGqTE/w150-h200/AllanBrosDrenchTank-923.png" width="150" /></a></div>But the visit went far beyond the classroom. In addition to lessons held in the WSDA offices, the group from Tokyo University of Agriculture traveled to the Yakima Valley where they toured one of the orchards run by <a href="https://allanbrosfruit.com/" target="_blank">Allan Brothers Fruit</a>. Our visitors then followed the course of the apples to an Allan Brothers packing facility in Yakima where they learned about food and safety guidelines at the facility, following the sorting, sizing, and packing process from start to finish.<p></p><p>During the tour and observation, WSDA fruit and vegetable inspectors Jose Briseno and Colton Denton performed quality control inspections, explaining the process to the group. Briseno and Denton also explained how inspections for exports to different countries require different plans.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1Vgx94vz0Qf2XEd-B-kJdrI36VMz7nPhzTpFfr5oQmiyozXI8uI91S_xDZ-EAaJClbvsVqe0sEFXOrMsOQOAdCEAgHbEDsRIuWfgF8T-kj2HixrQ9bgsa2bLMZVAQFMmqzMwtCw4pHhkwoXn8S9OQ0uTNsTGN7Bk8KW80S0qenLZmkaYBwv-Dn9-PzoE/s2017/JoseBrisenoandColtonDenton-TokyoUniversityVisit-9.23.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Apples quality control inspection in Yakima." border="0" data-original-height="1513" data-original-width="2017" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1Vgx94vz0Qf2XEd-B-kJdrI36VMz7nPhzTpFfr5oQmiyozXI8uI91S_xDZ-EAaJClbvsVqe0sEFXOrMsOQOAdCEAgHbEDsRIuWfgF8T-kj2HixrQ9bgsa2bLMZVAQFMmqzMwtCw4pHhkwoXn8S9OQ0uTNsTGN7Bk8KW80S0qenLZmkaYBwv-Dn9-PzoE/w400-h300/JoseBrisenoandColtonDenton-TokyoUniversityVisit-9.23.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Jose Briseno and Colton Denton demonstrate quality control inspections.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">A successful visit</h2><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzU_2_Cukb2P3MvfJWIqhgUaSG3EYvZHRm4mOEgHpolZMlm4iXzTrKOtffwo-TMpt_e5XA-hDGwP7IIof5wdMN1LYPWXun9ncfGnfAAQu0C_Ed3S_2kTq1CQUF1YVzv-PpUvd_aAdxWMWoh3HMajfdcmQksQs5REp5AIX5yVh5cEuuFf0QDcb3PvQhGcJ8/s6000/visitingstudentscapitalbuilding-9.23.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzU_2_Cukb2P3MvfJWIqhgUaSG3EYvZHRm4mOEgHpolZMlm4iXzTrKOtffwo-TMpt_e5XA-hDGwP7IIof5wdMN1LYPWXun9ncfGnfAAQu0C_Ed3S_2kTq1CQUF1YVzv-PpUvd_aAdxWMWoh3HMajfdcmQksQs5REp5AIX5yVh5cEuuFf0QDcb3PvQhGcJ8/s320/visitingstudentscapitalbuilding-9.23.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>After their five-day journey, the students and professors from Tokyo University of Agriculture returned home equipped with valuable knowledge about Washington State agriculture. One student, Kazuma Matsuo, shared that he was surprised and impressed by the large scale of Washington’s apple production after visiting Yakima. Meanwhile, Professor Masao Takayanagi, who was the faculty member leading the trip, shared that he and his students were pleased with the experience, saying “The visit was very stimulating, and [students learned] a lot about what is happening in agriculture in Washington.”<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-10891739953506289962023-10-03T07:30:00.006-07:002023-10-03T08:59:53.733-07:00The essence of Washington-grown grapes: A toast to excellence<p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="mailto:daniel.schafer@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Daniel Schafer</a><br />Communications</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnc4ZFtzPrFXWsy3PON4fRpec-HuXjKuNePKekyLqLnFlpEyHGoOILI-YzFK8X1I9ByBvkeBtUJXKMEebU92YnmCVrZylHdKsDWJ_M9n1eJEyTWvPTP7QTD4CvX3rBX0ihBFBGFuicd48WQhzB9c8Y2xT4eEmKzVigdAFMN4PFpjiTLLPuJbfKkTnpwBYF/s1200/WACrops%20Feature_Grapes.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnc4ZFtzPrFXWsy3PON4fRpec-HuXjKuNePKekyLqLnFlpEyHGoOILI-YzFK8X1I9ByBvkeBtUJXKMEebU92YnmCVrZylHdKsDWJ_M9n1eJEyTWvPTP7QTD4CvX3rBX0ihBFBGFuicd48WQhzB9c8Y2xT4eEmKzVigdAFMN4PFpjiTLLPuJbfKkTnpwBYF/s320/WACrops%20Feature_Grapes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>When it comes to viticulture (growing grapes) and viniculture (making wine), Washington State is a<br /> national leader. Though the wine industry in the state has exploded over the last quarter century, it has been a part of Washington’s agricultural identity for much longer, with the state’s first winery opening in 1874 (For more on Washington’s grape and wine history, see this 2015 article from the <i><a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/pacific-nw-magazine/old-vines-tell-the-story-of-washingtons-rich-wine-history/" target="_blank">Seattle Times</a></i>). With a rich history and vibrant present-day community, Washington-grown grapes have earned a reputation for producing exceptional wines. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at what makes Washington-grown grapes so special.<p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Eastern Washington is recognized for premier grape cultivation, but they also grow on the west side</h2><p>Central and eastern Washington are best known for grapes, and for good reason. More than 17,000 acres are dedicated to growing grapes in the Yakima Valley alone. This area is also home to more than 90 wineries that produce more than half of Washington’s wine grapes, according to <a href="https://www.yakimavalleywinecountry.com/" target="_blank">Yakima Valley Tourism</a>. But western Washington has been pivotal in the state's viticultural growth as well. This region is known for its cool maritime influence and, as <a href="https://wine.wsu.edu/extension/westside-grapes/" target="_blank">Washington State University Viniculture and Enology</a> tells us, is therefore ideal for growing grape varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The temperate climate and well-drained soils have contributed to the success of these grapes, resulting in highly sought-after premium wines.</p><p></p>Washington State boasts a diverse range of wine regions, each with its unique characteristics. According to the <a href="https://www.washingtonwine.org/regions-and-avas/" target="_blank">Washington State Wine Commission</a>, there are 20 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in Washington, encompassing an array of microclimates and soil types. Some of these AVAs share territory with our neighbors to the south and east. Columbia Valley, Columbia Gorge, and Walla Walla Valley overlap with Oregon, while Lewis-Clark Valley is split between Washington and Idaho. But regardless of which part of the state you’re looking at, from the renowned Columbia Valley to the emerging AVAs like Red Mountain and Horse Heaven Hills, each region offers opportunities to grow grapes and produce high-quality wines with distinct flavors, underscoring the importance of this sector of Washington agriculture. <br /><p class="MsoNormal">Want to learn more about Washington grapes? Check out this
episode of Washington Grown.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="330" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d-bARn8Tqqc" width="397" youtube-src-id="d-bARn8Tqqc"></iframe></div><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Impressive production numbers</h2><p class="MsoNormal">As any winemaker will tell you, the synergy between grapes, soil, and sun is crucial. Washington's unique combination of volcanic, glacial, and sedimentary soils, coupled with abundant sunshine during the growing season, provides an ideal environment for grape cultivation. The <a href="https://www.washingtonwine.org/grapes-soil-sun/" target="_blank">Washington State Wine Commission explains</a> that our state’s unique combination of climate and soils offers myriad opportunities for grape growers. What’s more “The state’s northerly latitude offers a growing season that sees up to 17 hours of sunlight a day during the summer, considerably longer than many other wine regions.”</p><p class="MsoNormal">The significance of Washington-grown grapes in the global wine market is underscored by the state's production statistics. According to the most recent <a href="https://www.washingtonwine.org/resource/2022-production-report/" target="_blank">Washington Wine Grape Production Report</a>, Washington produced over 240,000 tons of wine grapes in 2022. While grape and wine production decreased slightly in Washington during the pandemic, 2022 saw levels rise to just below pre-pandemic levels. And while Washington may rank second to California in annual grape production by volume, the ongoing expansion of vineyard acreage mirrors the increasing demand for its exceptional grape varieties with a 34% increase in growth last year alone, <a href="https://www.wagrown.com/wa-grown-magazin" target="_blank">according to Washington Grown Magazine</a>.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Washington grapes are central to our agricultural identity </h2><p class="MsoNormal">With its reputation for excellence in winemaking, Washington State continues to be a destination for wine enthusiasts and a key player in the American wine industry. So, the next time you raise a glass of Washington wine, remember the dedication and passion that goes into crafting these exceptional bottles from our very own backyard.</p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-59367377805794643272023-09-26T07:30:00.001-07:002023-09-26T07:50:04.401-07:00The backyard gardener's favorite root vegetable: Carrots<p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="mailto:daniel.schafer@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Daniel Schafer</a><br />Communications</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1AyjGF64jGBJCs0DB4cENowOMHV8dr_S3R5KEWcAvUVVDz_bXesWSvHjOyM2Rx-FWjP10rtdo_sxjr9_XSgNimiynmEEiuHQsz-FkHA0C4ZJRzNVQUlw6f2lK7gi4Yk9cmXzDfINlHn_UDivFWmCMUBBBHjjH3A4VgRv2vHMQ9Z18zN5_PFtSfhVa9wV/s1200/WACrops%20Feature_Carrots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1AyjGF64jGBJCs0DB4cENowOMHV8dr_S3R5KEWcAvUVVDz_bXesWSvHjOyM2Rx-FWjP10rtdo_sxjr9_XSgNimiynmEEiuHQsz-FkHA0C4ZJRzNVQUlw6f2lK7gi4Yk9cmXzDfINlHn_UDivFWmCMUBBBHjjH3A4VgRv2vHMQ9Z18zN5_PFtSfhVa9wV/s320/WACrops%20Feature_Carrots.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Carrots may be the quintessential backyard or community garden vegetable. They also have quite the<br /> pedigree. Scientists believe these tasty roots originated in present-day Iran and Afghanistan. We also think it was first cultivated by farmers between four and five thousand years ago. In other words, people have been enjoying carrots for a long time!<p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">A Washington state specialty</h2><p>Carrots grow especially well in Washington. That’s one reason why they’re so popular in backyard and community gardens, as well as among commercial farmers. In fact, Washington is the nation’s #1 producer of processing carrots (we’re the<a href="https://ipmdata.ipmcenters.org/documents/cropprofiles/WAcarrot.pdf" target="_blank"> #4 producer of fresh carrots</a>). Each year, about 10,000 acres of carrots are grown in the state, with an annual crop value of about $15 million, according to the <a href="https://ipm.wsu.edu/specialty-crops/vegetables/vegetable-row-crop-facts/" target="_blank">Washington State University Extension</a>.</p><p>One reason carrot growers are so prolific in Washington is our climate. Carrots want lots of sun but prefer mild temperatures that can offer cool soil. </p><p>Want to learn more about carrot production in Washington? Check out this episode of Washington Grown!<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="309" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ajZveiYsUdU" width="372" youtube-src-id="ajZveiYsUdU"></iframe></div><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Carrots are packed with things that can help you stay healthy</h2><div><br /></div><div><div>Growing up, you probably heard that eating carrots is good for your eyes. Good news! <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16908818/" target="_blank">Research backs that claim up</a>. In fact, carotenoids, which are found in carrots, may decrease the risk of <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/reasons-why-carrots-of-all-colors-are-healthy-for-you/" target="_blank">age-related macular degeneration</a>.</div><div> </div><div>In addition to helping your eyes stay healthy, carrots are a great source of Vitamin A. And if it weren’t for carrots, Americans would have a hard time getting enough of it. That’s because the average American gets about <a href="https://cms.agr.wa.gov/WSDAKentico/farm-to-school/Educators_Flyer_Carrots_2.pdf?/Educators_Flyer_Carrots_2#:~:text=Washington%20State%20grows%2010%2C000%20acres%20of%20carrots%20per%20year.&text=There%20are%20two%20carrot%20types,sold%20as%20fresh%20whole%20carrots." target="_blank">30% of their Vitamin A from carrots</a>!</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, did you know that some varieties of carrots have their own unique benefits? For example, red carrots can help <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/reasons-why-carrots-of-all-colors-are-healthy-for-you/" target="_blank">rid your body of toxins</a>.</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Carrot season in Washington</h2><div><br /></div><div>Carrots have a long harvesting season. That means, if you love Washington-grown carrots, you’re in luck. You should be able to get your hands on fresh carrots by visiting a nearby farm stand. As autumn begins in Washington, be sure to include plenty of carrots on your plate!</div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-11823732154274904872023-09-19T07:45:00.019-07:002023-09-19T07:54:19.358-07:00Summer’s sweet treat: Watermelon<p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="mailto:daniel.schafer@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Daniel Schafer</a><br />Communications</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vLFbKfdXamgvC8YFW0H5Hv4DGyxogVlRTJj7jAEGBp0VjGhOTiKN888p6Tbbuqkyl28YSB9NNyfR29ZsA0HkAwUN2b3Flr7jQ4e8MGOaOJO5d5UPi19BDunj_wX0kkp6__VboDM6ekB2aTVbLOjKvhtKMxhKtcWfA1e4vdeRsd4usFsFeVBPoWSO09fV/s1200/WACrops%20Feature_Watermelon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vLFbKfdXamgvC8YFW0H5Hv4DGyxogVlRTJj7jAEGBp0VjGhOTiKN888p6Tbbuqkyl28YSB9NNyfR29ZsA0HkAwUN2b3Flr7jQ4e8MGOaOJO5d5UPi19BDunj_wX0kkp6__VboDM6ekB2aTVbLOjKvhtKMxhKtcWfA1e4vdeRsd4usFsFeVBPoWSO09fV/s320/WACrops%20Feature_Watermelon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Watermelon is one of the most beloved summer treats in the U.S. Americans eat more of it than any other melon — more than <a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/chart-gallery/gallery/chart-detail/?chartId=107025" target="_blank">14 pounds per person per year</a>! In fact, we eat so much watermelon that domestic production can’t keep up with demand. The U.S. imported about 1.7 billion pounds of watermelon in 2019, which is about one-third of all the watermelon consumed here. <p></p><p>Yes, it’s safe to say that we love watermelon. But because it typically grows in very warm climates, you may not think of it as a Washington crop. In this blog, we’ll share everything you need to know about Washington-grown watermelon and why it might be a good addition to your community or backyard garden.</p><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Watermelon: A sweet treat packed with good stuff</h2><br />There’s some debate as to whether watermelon is a fruit or a vegetable. <a href="https://www.watermelon.org/watermelon-101/facts-faqs/" target="_blank">The National Watermelon Promotion Board</a> says that it could be considered either — or both! But regardless of whether we call them a fruit or a vegetable, one thing is undeniable: they’re really good for you. In fact, watermelon is a good source of Vitamin A, which contributes to eye and skin health. It also has Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C, both of which help strengthen your immune system. Watermelon is also a good source of potassium. </div><div><div><br />But beyond having plenty of vitamins, watermelon can also help you hydrate. In fact, watermelon are made up of over 90% water. This is probably one reason why it’s such a popular summer snack!</div></div><div><br /></div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Washington-grown watermelons</h2><br />While Washington is not one of the top producers of watermelons in the U.S., they do grow well here. In fact, two separate trials conducted by Washington State University’s Vegetable and Research Extension showed that over 130 varieties of watermelon can be grown in our state. And while you might assume <a href="http://agsyst.wsu.edu/WatermelonPhotos.html" target="_blank">the trials</a> were conducted in hot, sunny Eastern Washington, they actually took place in Mt. Vernon and Vancouver.</div><div><div><br /></div><div>Even though WSU's watermelon trials took place on the west side of the state, growing them there requires some extra special care — and quite a bit of luck. Once your watermelons begin to grow, it’s a good idea to get them off the ground to keep the fruit from rotting. Even though they need a lot of water, watermelon don’t want to wallow in it. Once that’s done, you’ll need to hope for a string of hot, sunny days. Without them, your watermelons will probably not ripen. </div><div><br />It’s a different story in central and south-eastern Washington, though, where summer holds on well into September. In this part of the state, gardeners and farmers will need to make sure their watermelons are getting plenty of water, but the sunshine probably won’t be in short supply. It’s thanks to this part of the state that Washington is able to produce some watermelon commercially. In fact, according to <a href="https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/catalog/files/project/pdf/pnw741.pdf" target="_blank">Oregon State University</a>, Washington and Oregon cultivate nearly 2,000 acres of watermelon each year.<br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">The end (of watermelon season) is near</h2><br />Washington-grown watermelon are in season now. With summer winding down, don’t miss your last chance to get your hands on one of these locally-produced sweet treats. It’ll be sure to help brighten your day as we count down to autumn.<br /><br /></div></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-37733984916357015642023-09-12T11:29:00.002-07:002023-09-12T11:29:07.110-07:00A Washington-grown superfood: Cranberries <p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="mailto:daniel.schafer@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Daniel Schafer</a><br />Communications</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlTmOdp4cuYJxJ7l97ESszJkwkCWelggKkKqRX32pnrhvP3DiXxaUFhwBOpQI32ICj4IxQ8SfAfetULL-jh0v6zPHvcmomR2bKyN7LuXaicFC8YDMKO5u1euya5M-IaVcE_wI887PKYikeovDzeaN8aOIIwHJR6VNGp4P6gD6PG1XIc2BqbNfaQdFxgLp/s1200/WACrops%20Feature_Cranberries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlTmOdp4cuYJxJ7l97ESszJkwkCWelggKkKqRX32pnrhvP3DiXxaUFhwBOpQI32ICj4IxQ8SfAfetULL-jh0v6zPHvcmomR2bKyN7LuXaicFC8YDMKO5u1euya5M-IaVcE_wI887PKYikeovDzeaN8aOIIwHJR6VNGp4P6gD6PG1XIc2BqbNfaQdFxgLp/s320/WACrops%20Feature_Cranberries.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>When it comes to cranberries, Washington State is a hidden gem. While the Evergreen State might notnbe the first place that comes to mind when you think of cranberry production, our state is one of only a handful of states that grows them. In this blog, we’ll offer some insights on Washington’s cranberry production, as well as why we should be grateful to have this superfood growing in our metaphorical backyard.<p></p><p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Cranberry production in Washington state</h2><p>Cranberry harvest is on the way — September through November is peak season — and based on yields from past years, the state will likely produce over <a href="https://ipm.wsu.edu/specialty-crops/cranberries/cranberry-facts/" target="_blank">$10 million worth</a> of these tart berries. </p><p>Washington is home to over 100 cranberry growers who cultivate on average 1,600 acres, according to the <a href="https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pub/em-9374-measuring-economic-impact-pests-pest-management-cranberries-oregon-washington" target="_blank">Oregon State University Extension Service</a>. These farmers power the Washington cranberry industry to a top five national ranking in terms of production, with Washington producing over $175,000 barrels in 2016, according to <a href="http://nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/New_Jersey/Publications/Cranberry_Statistics/2016 CRANBERRYSUM 9-2017.pdf" target="_blank">USDA</a>.</p><p>Farmers have been growing cranberries in Washington since the late 19th century. Today, there are three growing regions in the state: The Long Beach Peninsula (Pacific County), Grayland (Pacific and Grays Harbor Counties), and Lynden (Whatcom County).</p><p>The state's unique climate, with its cool temperatures and plentiful rainfall, creates the perfect conditions for cranberry cultivation. These shallow-rooted evergreen vines that grow low to the ground and are long-lived perennials.</p><p>You can learn more about Washington cranberries from <a href="https://wagrown.com/segments/season-2-episode-10-cranmac-farm-inc-cranberry-farm" target="_blank">this clip from Washington Grown</a>.<br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">A Washington superfood</h2><p>Only about 5% of cranberries grown in the U.S. are sold fresh. Most of the remaining <a href="https://www.agmrc.org/commodities-products/fruits/cranberries" target="_blank">95% are processed</a> into juices, though some are also dried. However you consume cranberries, there’s no doubt that they are incredibly good for you, offering numerous health benefits.</p><p><b>Rich in antioxidants: </b>Cranberries are loaded with <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-cranberries/" target="_blank">antioxidants</a>, including vitamin C, quercetin, and anthocyanins. These compounds help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.</p><p><b>Anti-inflammatory properties:</b> Chronic inflammation is linked to various health problems. Cranberries contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation throughout the body.</p><p>Incorporating cranberries into your diet can be as simple as adding them to salads, yogurt, smoothies, or baked goods. Whether you enjoy them for their unique tart flavor or their potential health benefits, cranberries are a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">From (marshy) field to kitchen: Cranberry culinary adventures</h2><p>Cranberries are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. From traditional cranberry sauce to creative dishes like cranberry-stuffed chicken breast or cranberry salsa, these berries add a delightful tangy twist to any meal.</p><p>One of the most popular uses for cranberries is in baking. Cranberry muffins, scones, and cookies are beloved treats that showcase the tartness and vibrant color of these berries. Consider trying your hand at baking a cranberry pie or tart, which combines the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries with a flaky, buttery crust.</p><p>Whether you’re baking or adding fresh cranberries to salads or salsas, this Washington-grown crop is a healthful delight that can’t be missed. Cranberry harvest is on the way. Be sure you don’t let the season pass without trying delicious Washington cranberries!</p><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-74170872264010029192023-09-12T08:11:00.000-07:002023-09-12T08:11:47.707-07:00Natural Resources Assessment Section gets a new identity: Welcome to "Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences"<p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3s0sFA8OZ56y_g5W9LkzjY9iLxwSHyBN-NWFvGi0mZGH5z-uNAyw4DrolHohA1uEDrokgPZMbxk9pnf4LSPpcyyhTjF-_KRT2oloMaXIClJg1Kfof6VCpDlbr3lMCnnYF7dv4IEz89qPu4BbOi5Xg-u2rzfgZ5DCGJnR19L_iuTdCFu8myZHQhVz9ti8w/s712/NRAS.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="712" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3s0sFA8OZ56y_g5W9LkzjY9iLxwSHyBN-NWFvGi0mZGH5z-uNAyw4DrolHohA1uEDrokgPZMbxk9pnf4LSPpcyyhTjF-_KRT2oloMaXIClJg1Kfof6VCpDlbr3lMCnnYF7dv4IEz89qPu4BbOi5Xg-u2rzfgZ5DCGJnR19L_iuTdCFu8myZHQhVz9ti8w/s320/NRAS.png" width="320" /></span></a></div><h3><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><div style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span><a href="mailto:kimberly.vaughn@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Kim Vaughn</a><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Communications</span></div></span></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;">We have some exciting news to share!
The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is undergoing a
transformation that reflects our commitment to innovation, expansion, and
adapting to the changing landscape of natural resource management. Our esteemed
Natural Resources Assessment Section (NRAS) is now evolving into the more
encompassing "Natural Resources
and Agricultural Sciences." This rebranding marks a
significant step forward in our mission and objectives.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Embracing a new identity<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">The decision to rebrand our
Natural Resources Assessment Section to "Natural Resources and
Agricultural Sciences" comes after careful consideration. We believe this
updated name better represents the diverse spectrum of activities, research,
and initiatives we engage in. Our work extends beyond traditional assessment,
encompassing cutting-edge agricultural sciences. This shift mirrors our
dedication to excellence, sustainability, and a holistic approach to resource
management</span>. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">What is NRAS?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">The NRAS has been diligently working
at the interface between agricultural production and environmental quality. Our
research spans various critical areas, including:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ol start="1" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 13.5pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><ol start="1" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/land-and-water/natural-resources/agricultural-land-use" target="_blank"><span style="color: windowtext;"><b><span style="color: blue; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Agricultural land use practices</span></b></span><b>:</b></a> <span style="color: windowtext;"> NRAS specialists map and inventory crop
acreage through visual surveys, aerial/satellite surveys, and federal data.
This data helps us review current crop production and evaluate changes in
land use through the years, including land removed from production.</span><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Pesticide usage: We meet with grower groups,
consultants, and industry representatives to compile anonymized
information about pesticides used, application rates and dates, and modes
of application on different crops. This helps us understand changes in
pesticide usage and pest pressure.</span><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/land-and-water/natural-resources/water-quality" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: blue; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Water quality:</span></b></a></span> NRAS works <span style="color: windowtext;">to understand
how pesticides and fertilizers might affect Washinton State’s water
resources. We monitor water for pesticides and work with other programs at
WSDA, the agricultural community, and regulators on education and outreach
about our findings and good management practices for pesticide use. </span><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/land-and-water/natural-resources/water-quantity" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: blue; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Water quantity:</span></b></a></span> A reliable water supply <span style="color: windowtext;">is
essential for Washington’s agricultural production. We study water supply
issues throughout the state to see how things like increased drought
frequency may affect agriculture. We also work to make sure needs and
challenges specific to agricultural producers are addressed in water
supply projects throughout the state. </span>.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/land-and-water/natural-resources/soil-health" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: blue; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Soil health:</span></b></a></span> Soil serves as the fundamental basis for agriculture, and it
is of utmost importance to ensure its well-being. We <span style="color: windowtext;">work with partners at the Washington State Conservation
Commission and Washington State University in the Washington Soil Health
Initiative (WaSHI). Through research, outreach and education, funding, and
policy support, WaSHI improves soil health in Washington for increased
agricultural resilience and economic viability. </span> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol></li>
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Our ongoing commitment<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">The programs under the NRAS umbrella
have a shared goal: to protect public health, preserve the environment, and
support the viability of agriculture in Washington. Our dedication to
excellence remains steadfast as we continue to work tirelessly to achieve these
objectives.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">For more information about our
programs and the important work we do, we invite you to visit the main </span><a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/land-and-water/natural-resources" target="_blank"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">NRAS webpage</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">. There, you can delve
deeper into our research, initiatives, and the ways in which we are
contributing to the sustainable future of agriculture and the environment in
Washington state. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and are
grateful for your continued support as we embrace this new identity and all the
opportunities it brings. Together, we will make a positive impact on the future
of agriculture and natural resource management.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><br /><p></p>Kim Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03287337160085372455noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081658570848278533.post-15285782178566274992023-09-11T07:00:00.012-07:002023-09-14T07:46:25.197-07:00Innovation and commitment: How WSDA Food Assistance is reshaping hunger relief<p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="mailto:daniel.schafer@agr.wa.gov" target="_blank">Daniel Schafer</a><br />Communications</span></p><p>“Our job is to feed people.” </p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ojk6I2Uuuzsodpm2QWPkZsZBSPWGw6nCRZCh85vWV-ODfxBLpHL5fhecOpdkdbVbUcsUql3MtRTZZynG7id4ZxoZu09JA2ScyWPxtO1oPyu2TNveSsl8gCRFqqkZPSxIwzLHl0eZEeeib0j4IEp2rZErilz0NkanSZpo0aF2bUzh6y2oCzcNsE8Qgwbe/s1200/FoodAssistance.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ojk6I2Uuuzsodpm2QWPkZsZBSPWGw6nCRZCh85vWV-ODfxBLpHL5fhecOpdkdbVbUcsUql3MtRTZZynG7id4ZxoZu09JA2ScyWPxtO1oPyu2TNveSsl8gCRFqqkZPSxIwzLHl0eZEeeib0j4IEp2rZErilz0NkanSZpo0aF2bUzh6y2oCzcNsE8Qgwbe/s320/FoodAssistance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The WSDA Food Assistance team.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>It sounds like a simple objective, but the act of feeding hungry people across Washington State is nothing short of a herculean effort involving hundreds of dedicated people and dozens of community and state organizations. At the center of this effort is the Food Assistance Program at Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). </p><p>In Washington’s hunger relief landscape, WSDA’s role is multi-faceted. The Food Assistance Program manages and distributes funds and food that comes from the Federal government as well as the state. It’s a world full of acronyms, where one program may serve a particular niche while another attempts to cover a broad swathe of needs. The funds dedicated to hunger relief in Washington provide some idea of the scale of the need. Food banks and pantries received just under $5 million in funding from the state of Washington’s Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP) in 2019, according to the WSDA website. To put that into perspective, EFAP alone provided a staggering 148 million pounds of food to 1.12 million Washingtonians struggling with food insecurity. That’s on top of food provided by the Federal government, an amount that totaled $32 million last year. </p><p>It’s easy to see why Kim Eads, the program manager for WSDA’s Food Assistance Program, and her team take their work so seriously. “If we don’t do our job, hunger relief organizations don’t get funding and we can’t feed people,” she says. </p><p>Eads has worked for various agencies in Washington as the state’s hunger relief efforts have evolved, and in August 2023, she celebrated 35 years on the job. Today, Eads is highly respected in the emergency food assistance community, developing new programs and directing WSDA’s efforts to address food insecurity in the state. But Eads is quick to point out that none of the work going on at Food Assistance would be possible without the dedication of her team, and those across the state working in the hunger relief sector. </p><p>“I could not have had a better team of committed people,” says Eads. “They do this work for the same reasons. We sometimes disagree, but we remember why we’re here and we work hard. Whatever we do, we are mindful of why we’re doing it.” </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">A dedicated staff leads this important work </h2><p>WSDA’s Food Assistance program serves as the conduit for state and federal dollars and food that must be distributed to food banks, food pantries, and similar organizations throughout Washington. The work is important, and the program’s 16 employees are acutely aware of this. </p><p>“If Food Assistance stopped functioning, a lot of people would go hungry,” says logistics specialist James Scovel, who has worked with the program his entire career, since 1997. Without Food Assistance, “people wouldn’t get the food they need to survive day to day,” he continues. “That means something. This is a meaningful job, and not a lot of people get to say that.” </p><p>Jeff Mathias, the Food Assistance farm to community specialist lead, adds that “it’s all about feeding hungry people.” Mathias goes on to say that the results of the work being done in the Food Assistance program is tangible. “When it comes to getting work done, we know why we’re doing it, there’s no disconnect. Because of the work that we do today, someone is going to get fed.” </p><p>Scovel and Mathias’ outlook is common among their colleagues, and this dedication and understanding of the gravity of the program’s work has led to a high degree of retention and engagement in the program. </p><p>“You get hooked,” says Kyle Merlich, the program’s lead food assistance specialist and a ten-year Food Assistance veteran. Part of the reason people working in the Food Assistance Program are so dedicated is because government guidelines and community needs are always changing, adding a layer of challenge to the work, but also providing opportunities. “I have always felt there’s an upward trajectory with our work,” says Merlich. “There’s always more to learn. Our programs don’t have a ceiling.” </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Building the Food Assistance team </h2><p>Kim Eads has played a central role in building this dedicated, high-functioning team. “Kim pulls the best out of all of us,” says Lisa White, the program’s business operations administrator. White, has worked in Food Assistance for ten years and attributes much of her professional growth to Eads. “She saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself,” says White. “Kim asked if I would like to try a new project, and over time she gave me more and more responsibility,” she continues. “Little by little, she taught me things. And when I was able, I took those projects over.” White attributes Eads’ mentoring abilities to the fact that she cares for the people on her team. “It’s not just about her program, it’s about her people as well.” </p><p>Kyle Merlich adds that Eads is adept in helping everyone on the team to move toward common goals. “Kim makes sure everyone knows they have a part to play in achieving our goals,” he says. But a key component is also valuing colleagues as people. Even though the Food Assistance team works hard, Merlich is quick to add that Eads ensures “there is time to get to know coworkers and value them as people, too.” </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Improving hunger relief in Washington </h2><p>WSDA’s Food Assistance program is dedicated to serving hungry people in Washington. This means understanding what people in communities across the state need — and these needs are as diverse as the communities themselves. </p><p>“The emergency food system is always evolving so our programs have to evolve,” says Kyle Merlich. “Food banks and food pantries are in the same situation — needing to adjust to a changing food system.” But the changing needs of communities also mean that Food Assistance must constantly evaluate their approach to make sure it’s effective. </p><p>One innovation that the program has led in recent years is to empower food banks in smaller, and often rural, communities to make more decisions. This has allowed hunger relief organizations to serve the unique needs of their clients. “We are trying to give smaller organizations a say in how their dollars are spent, how the food is distributed, and how local matters in terms of food banks,” says logistics specialist, James Scovel. “Having decisions made on a smaller level provides local buy-in and allows for better facilities in smaller areas, and sometimes means more people can be employed there,” he adds. Hiring more people can be a game-changer for rural food banks, because it means the facilities can be open for longer hours or more days during the week, which in turn means they can serve more people. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Seeing food as a system </h2><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEaWUKd6C47LbYban-tbBxJsgxEGD8aLuBzrt_64PrldCMnyHbSkGTE-u_M21hDRAwO2cw5lfWhoOmcG9RMBny5LZ7M4ee8N39aTRKdJpm63EXkSnu08wXBLhEQ-tlEHaLYcdvQOxhkj26F4bhZ1jOp3cSk3Bl-9fBjPK1WmwTuWo2W1ZMUmzj-u9HSZa/s448/FA2.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="448" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEaWUKd6C47LbYban-tbBxJsgxEGD8aLuBzrt_64PrldCMnyHbSkGTE-u_M21hDRAwO2cw5lfWhoOmcG9RMBny5LZ7M4ee8N39aTRKdJpm63EXkSnu08wXBLhEQ-tlEHaLYcdvQOxhkj26F4bhZ1jOp3cSk3Bl-9fBjPK1WmwTuWo2W1ZMUmzj-u9HSZa/s320/FA2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WSDA's Food Assistance Program is working to <br />connect farmers with local food banks.</td></tr></tbody></table>In addition to empowering smaller food banks, WSDA’s Food Assistance Program has made it a<br /> priority to approach hunger relief as a component of the larger food system. Hunger relief intersects with local food and agriculture, and the program has worked to leverage these intersections in a way that will better serve individuals and families in need. <p></p><p>State and Federal programs have made it possible for food banks and food pantries to purchase food directly from farmers. This not only brings more fresh fruits and vegetables to food-insecure people in Washington, but it also supports local agriculture. What’s more, by helping get local produce into the hands of their clients, hunger relief organizations have the ability to provide culturally relevant and healthier foods that may not otherwise be available. </p><p>This approach has been successful in Washington State, and the timing couldn’t have been better. Hunger relief has always been an uphill battle because the need almost always outpaces the ability to provide relief. But there are signs that Food Assistance and the hunger relief organizations they support are making a difference. Preliminary data shows nearly 10.8 million clients (including repeat clients) visited food banks and food pantries in Washington State during the 2023 fiscal year, which runs from July 1st to June 30th. If these figures hold, it would mean an increase of over 2.4 million visits from the previous year.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Need is increasing across Washington </h2><p>With more people visiting food banks than ever before, there is a need for more food to be distributed. In 2022, 181.4 million pounds of food were distributed in Washington. That figure will increase this year, with preliminary figures totaling just over 202 million pounds. For almost every metric, the need for hunger relief is increasing in Washington. The number of families served increased by almost 136,000 this year, while 1.7 million people visited a food bank or food pantry for the first time. </p><p>With such a need, Washington requires the dedicated and capable team at Food Assistance, as well as their partners throughout the hunger relief ecosystem, including food bank and food pantry employees, farmers, and more.</p><p>“All the people who work here are all super important,” says James Scovel. “It’s the team that does it and it couldn’t be done without everyone.” </p><p>Luisa Castro, the assistant director of Food Safety and Consumer Services – within which the Food Safety Program is housed – agrees. She also explains how Program Manager Kim Eads helps the team thrive through her example and leadership. “Kim Eads is a unique leader whose natural inclination is to serve and serve first,” she says. “This includes serving her team and serving the greater Washington community in need. It is obvious in everything that Kim does.” </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com