Natural Resources Assessment Section gets a new identity: Welcome to "Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences"

Kim Vaughn
Communications

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.

Embracing a new identity

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. 

What is NRAS?

The NRAS has been diligently working at the interface between agricultural production and environmental quality. Our research spans various critical areas, including:

1. 1. Agricultural land use practices:   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.
   2. 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.
   3. Water quality: NRAS works 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.
   4. Water quantity: A reliable water supply 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. .
   5. Soil health: Soil serves as the fundamental basis for agriculture, and it is of utmost importance to ensure its well-being. We 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.  

Our ongoing commitment

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.

For more information about our programs and the important work we do, we invite you to visit the main NRAS webpage. 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.

 

Save the date for SoilCon, the soil health conference

Dani Gelardi
WSDA Soil Health Scientist 

SoilCon, a conference about soil health and the latest research on soil, is coming next month during Washington Soil Health Week.  

The annual conference is organized by the Washington Soil Health Initiative, a joint effort of WSDA, Washington State University, and the Washington State Conservation Commission to study soil health in our state and explore ways to improve it.

Soil health focuses on how well a soil system supports plants, animals, and people. It also recognizes the living nature of soils and the importance of soil microorganisms. 

SoilCon is a free, virtual event and will be held on Tuesday, February 22 and Wednesday, February 23 from 8 a.m. to noon each day. The theme this year is “From Global to Local: Scaled Soil Health Parameters.” 

Visit the SoilCon website to register for the conference or view the complete agenda. 

Topics covered at this year’s conference will include:

• Global soil challenges.
• How to interpret soil health tests.
• The cost and savings growers experience when implementing soil health practices.
• What role soil microbes do (or don’t!) play in soil health and farm productivity. 

Growers, agricultural professionals, soil enthusiasts, and soil scientists are all invited to attend.

Speakers will include professors from WSU and from universities around the country, as well as graduate students and postdocs providing short, lightning talks. 

Join us at the conference and learn more about soil health in Washington state. Visit agr.wa.gov/AgScience to find our soil health page.