“Give. Eat. Local.” This Year with the Idaho Preferred Holiday Gift Box

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture’s Idaho Preferred program is excited to offer its annual ag-artisan holiday gift box. This year, customers have two gift box options containing more than 13 products grown, raised, and crafted in Idaho. Each purchase supports local Idaho producers and our economy.

“The Idaho Preferred holiday boxes have become a wonderful tradition and are a great way to share a taste of the Gem State with loved ones near and far,” said Celia Gould, ISDA Director.

By offering two gift box options, Idaho Preferred increased the number of Idaho farmers and food crafters who could showcase their goods. It also diversified the gift-giving options for shoppers who are excited to give unique, Idaho-sourced gourmet food and personal products to friends and family throughout the U.S.

Box 1:

Cherry Hill Farms – Dark Chocolate Covered Dried Cherries
Idahoan – Buttery Homestyle Mashed Potatoes
Kauffman Farm – Kauffman Farm Hearty Barley Soup
Manwaring Cheese – Mild Cheddar Cheese (shelf-stable)
Northern Latitude Foods – Coeur d’ Alene Wild Rice
Owyhee Produce – Thank a Farmer Sticker
Rich’s Chicks – Egg Puff Pet Treats
Snake River Seed Cooperative – Poppy Seeds
Starlight Herb and Spice – Boise Spud Rub
The Teff Company – Teff Ivory Flour
Wagner Idaho Foods – Old Fashioned Idaho Mustard
Warn Reserve Cocktail Co. – Cocktail Bitters
Weiser Candy Company – Idaho-Shaped Solid Chocolate Bar

Box 2:

1000 Springs Mill – Barley Max
Creekside Mallow Co. – Huckleberry Mallows
Free Spirits Beverage Company – Shrub Drinking Vinegars
Garlic Gods – Softneck garlic
Hen and Hare Microfarm and Apis – Bee’s wax lip balm
Homemade by Dorothy – Sawtooth Spice Co. Mulling & Baking Spice
Hot Eric Honey – Hot Eric Honey Matcha
Idahoan – Buttery Homestyle Mashed Potatoes
Idaho Candy Company – Owyhee Butter Toffee
Nature’s Indulgence – Granola Mix
Owyhee Produce – Thank a Farmer Sticker
Purple Sage Farms – Dried Basil
Ten Blue Bird Acres – Microgreens Grow Kit

Last year, Idaho Preferred sold out of its holiday gift boxes, which were distributed all over the U.S. The program has increased inventory this year and is able to offer 1,000 holiday gift boxes for purchase which showcase over 25 Idaho producers from throughout the state.

“This gift is more than a box of great tasting products, it’s an opportunity to support some of our local Idaho farmers, ranchers, and food crafters while giving a uniquely Idaho gift,” said Erica White, Idaho Preferred Marketing Specialist. “The holiday gift box features some of the best of Idaho-sourced food, beverage, and skin care products together in this one-of-a-kind agricultural experience.”

Learn more and order your Idaho Preferred Holiday Gift Box at . Supplies are limited, so customers are encouraged to order early. Boxes are sold separately and will ship by mid-December for holiday delivery.

Idaho Preferred is a program of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, and its mission is to connect Idaho agriculture and food producers with consumers, retailers, and food services to grow their marketplace.

November 30, 2022

Contact: Erica White

Direct: 208.972.9955

Erica.White@isda.idaho.gov

ISDA Showcases the Idaho Farm to Chef Connection

Boise, Idaho – Idaho Preferred announced the premier of a special video series, “Idaho’s Farm to Chef Connection,” featuring chefs and restaurants whose menus are devoted to using locally-sourced ingredients from the Gem State’s farm and ranch families.

‘“Idaho’s Farm to Chef Connection,’ tells the story of Idaho-grown foods through the experiences of our state’s chefs and farmers who are committed to bringing fresh, quality, local ingredients to our plates,” said Erica White, Idaho Preferred Trade Specialist.

Each week of the autumn season, Idaho Preferred will release a new “mini-sode” on social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter). These pieces will highlight the collaborative efforts between the featured culinary artist and their local farmers. The videos were filmed on location at farms and restaurants throughout the great Gem State, including Boise, Caldwell, Moscow, Sandpoint, and Twin Falls. Each mini-sode can be viewed on the Idaho Preferred website – https://idahopreferred.com/idahos-farm-to-chef-connection.

While the series shines a light on the chefs who are dedicated to making locally sourced agricultural ingredients an intentional priority on their menus, the real star of the series is the integration of locally grown and raised products and the producers behind them. With over 185 crops and commodities being grown throughout the state, Idahoans have a unique opportunity to experience the abundance of crop diversity through seasonally curated dishes at restaurants within their community.

“This has been a humbling and enlightening journey to showcase Idaho farm and ranch families and the unique challenges they face within the local food distribution system in such a large state as Idaho,” said White. “We hope this video series conveys the importance of choosing local farm-to-fork dining and eating seasonally wherever you are in Idaho to support our local economy and overall quality of life.” Farm to fork restaurants throughout the state can be located on our website – https://idahopreferred.com/members/?categories=restaurants.

Idaho Preferred® is a program of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture dedicated to promoting Idaho food and agriculture products. Idaho Preferred provides a host of resources, including ways to find local foods and discover new producers.

October 13, 2022

Contact: Erica White

Phone: 208-332-8532

erica.white@isda.idaho.gov

Idaho, Taiwan Flour Millers Sign $576 Million Wheat Deal

Idaho, Taiwan Flour Millers sign $576 million wheat deal

Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little joined representatives of the Idaho wheat industry and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle in the State Capitol today to sign a letter of intent for the Taiwan Flour Mills Association (TFMA) to purchase U.S. wheat over the next two years, a deal valued at $576 million.

“We are excited to welcome the Taiwan Flour Mills Association back to Idaho in their first in-person visit since 2019,” said Governor Little. “Export markets are critical to our state’s economy and especially to Idaho agriculture. Taiwan is an important customer and Idaho’s second-largest export market. We are grateful once again to mark this important relationship.”

Idaho State Department of Agriculture Director Celia Gould, TFMA Chairman Tony Yi-Cheun Shu, Director General Daniel K.C. Chen of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle, and Idaho Wheat Commission Chairman Clark Hamilton joined Governor Little for the ceremony.

“The United States has long been Taiwan’s most important supplier of agricultural products, which makes Taiwan the sixth largest overseas market for U.S. agricultural exports,” Director Gould said. “Taiwan is one of our most important and reliable agricultural trade partners. We greatly value their friendship and customer loyalty.”

“We appreciate that the Taiwan milling and baking industry recognizes the consistent quality of Idaho wheat,” Idaho Wheat Commission Chairman Clark Hamilton said. “The importance of maintaining this trade relationship with valued customers cannot be overstated. We greatly value the Taiwan Flour Mills friendship and commitment over the past 40 years and look forward to cooperation in the years to come.”

The U.S. wheat industry has had an excellent working relationship with Taiwan for more than 40 years. The TFMA imports wheat on behalf of all 20 Taiwanese flour mills. The U.S. supplies more than 80-percent of Taiwan’s total wheat imports each year. The TFMA continues to be one of Idaho’s best customers year-after-year, coming in as one of the top five wheat importing trade partners.

ISDA Confirms First Case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Since May

BOISE, ID – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) has confirmed Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) virus in a backyard flock of domestic chickens and ducks in Twin Falls County, Idaho. This is the first confirmed case of HPAI in domestic poultry this season.

While HPAI was detected in wild birds during the summer in Idaho, this is the first case in domestic birds confirmed by ISDA since May. Additional information about confirmed cases is available on the ISDA website.

ISDA strongly recommends poultry owners reinforce biosecurity measures for their flocks and prevent wild waterfowl from interacting with their domestic birds. Public venues where domestic poultry may come in contact with infected birds, such as livestock exhibitions or bird auctions, should also be avoided. In April 2022, ISDA confirmed a public bird auction as the common source of HPAI infections for several backyard flocks after owners purchased birds and brought them home.

HPAI is carried by waterfowl (geese and ducks) along their migratory path. Idaho is within the Pacific Flyway. Domestic birds and poultry are very susceptible to morbidity and mortality once infected. HPAI is transmitted between birds through close contact (mucous), fecal matter, and sometimes as an aerosol. It is often carried on objects such as tools, vehicles, clothes, and boots, which can transfer the virus from one location to another.

It is uncommon for humans to become infected, but symptoms may include conjunctivitis, fever, lethargy, aches, coughing, or diarrhea. Being in direct contact with domestic birds is the highest risk activity. When USDA guidelines for cooking are followed, HPAI is not a foodborne illness.

Poultry (Domestic Birds) Information

Signs of HPAI in domestic poultry frequently include decreased appetite and activity, respiratory difficulty, dark combs and wattles, and unexplained mortality.

It is essential for poultry owners to be vigilant in monitoring for illness and contacting the ISDA State Veterinarian immediately when HPAI symptoms are confirmed. HPAI is a reportable disease in Idaho, and veterinarians are required to report positive detections to the ISDA.

The best form of flock protection is maintaining strong biosecurity standards. Biosecurity includes limiting the number of people who interact with your birds, washing hands before and after handling the birds, and having dedicated clothing and tools for each flock. More information can be found through ISDA and USDA.

Wild Bird Information

Anyone who comes across a sick or dead wild bird should refrain from interacting with it and should contact IDFG at https://idfg.idaho.gov/conservation/wildlife-health.

ISDA Confirms First Case of Equine West Nile Virus this Year

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture’s (ISDA) Animal Health Laboratory confirmed the first case of equine West Nile virus (WNV) in Idaho this year. The affected horse, located in Gooding County, is recovering and is under the treatment of a veterinarian.

The most common signs of WNV in horses are fever and weakness, usually in the hindquarters which sometimes is characterized by a widened stance, stumbling, leaning to one side and toe dragging. Mental conditions such as fearfulness, lip-smacking, chewing movements and fine muscle tremors may be noticed. Paralysis and inability to stand may follow in extreme cases of WNV infection.

West Nile most commonly is spread to people and horses through the bite of an infected mosquito. The public should continue to take precautions in areas with WNV-carrying mosquitoes, and precautions should extend to animals.

The ISDA recommends two essential protections for equines and small camelids: vaccination and physical precautions.

“The WNV vaccination continues to be an essential preventive measure and should be given annually to provide an adequate level of protection from the virus,” said Idaho State Veterinarian Dr. Scott Leibsle. “Nearly 98 percent of horses that test positive for WNV are non-vaccinated or under-vaccinated. Horse owners should speak with their veterinarians about the WNV vaccination and other necessary annual core vaccinations as well as how to follow an annual booster schedule. Horses that have been vaccinated for WNV in previous years must receive annual boosters; a one-time vaccination is not enough.”

Physical WNV precautions include using fans and repellants to keep mosquitoes away from equines. Additionally, horse owners should remove or treat standing water on or near their property whenever possible.

“There is no vaccine for people,” said Dr. Leslie Tengelsen, State Public Health Veterinarian with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. “Although most infections in people are mild, some people can become quite ill. Avoid mosquito bites by taking simple precautions.” Precautions can include using insect repellant according to the label, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active, and making sure house screens are in working order.

Additional information about the virus and a map of known affected counties is available from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s website, www.westnile.idaho.gov. For questions regarding control of mosquito populations, please contact your local mosquito abatement district.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 2, 2022

Contact: Dr. Scott Leibsle

Dr. Christie Hammons

(208) 332-8540

info@isda.idaho.gov

Idaho Celebrates Farmers Market Week

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) is pleased to highlight Governor Brad Little’s proclamation of August 7-13, 2022, as Idaho Farmers Market Week. Idaho’s designation matches National Farmers Market Week.

Farmers markets showcase the bounty and diversity of Idaho agriculture. These markets continue to play a vital role in the local food supply chain offering locally produced food and agriculture products including the freshest fruits and vegetables picked at the peak of flavor as well as meats, breads, flowers, honey and more.

“Idaho Farmers’ Market Week is a great opportunity to celebrate all of the farmers markets across our state,” said ISDA Director Celia Gould. “When you shop at your local market, you help preserve Idaho’s agricultural heritage, stimulate local economies, and gain access to fresh and nutritious food to support healthy communities.”

“It’s time to celebrate our local food and the local farmers who grow it,” said Dawn Larzelier, ISDA Marketing Analyst. “Farmers markets are an important part of local Idaho communities’ food systems providing an opportunity to meet directly with the hardworking farmers, ranchers and food crafters who supply consumers with fresh, high quality products.”

Special events and activities will be coordinated by individual markets across the state. Visit www.idahopreferred.com for a complete listing of farmers markets statewide including dates, locations, and times to find a local market near you. For more information on Idaho farmers markets you can also visit the Idaho Farmers Market Association website at www.idahofma.org.

Idaho Preferred® is a program of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture dedicated to promoting Idaho food and agriculture products.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Dawn Larzelier

August 3, 2022

Phone: 208-332-8684

HR133 Specialty Crop Block Grant Application Period Reopened

Applications for the HR133 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program have been reopened. The new deadline for submitting all application materials is Sunday, July 31, 2022. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Market Service (AMS) has allocated these funds to the states through H.R. 133 Stimulus Funding and ISDA will be awarding over $2 million in competitive grants. Priority will be given to projects that respond to COVID-19 impacts.

Specialty crops are defined to include fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, nursery crops including floriculture, and honey. These funds are somewhat different than traditional Specialty Crop Block Grants awarded annually through the Farm Bill. Individual companies may apply for COVID related facility adjustments including such things as worker housing adaptations, personal protective equipment, and plexiglass barriers to protect employees or the public. Priority is also provided to implementing market adaptations and supply chain improvements related to COVID-19 for projects that benefit a variety of businesses.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 22, 2022

Contact: Chanel Tewalt

chanel.tewalt@isda.idaho.gov

Phone: (208) 332-8615

ISDA Receives Confirmation of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Idaho

BOISE, ID – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) has received confirmation of multiple cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) virus in two separate flocks of domestic chickens in Gooding County and Caribou County. The affected flocks appear to be unrelated.

HPAI is a viral disease and requires rapid response because it is highly contagious and often fatal to chickens. ISDA will work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to respond to cases. The public is encouraged to check the ISDA website for updates, including affected counties and number of cases.

It is uncommon for humans to become infected with avian influenzas, but symptoms may include conjunctivitis, fever, lethargy, aches, coughing, or diarrhea. Being in direct contact with domestic birds is the highest risk activity. When USDA guidelines for cooking are followed, HPAI is not a foodborne illness.

Poultry (Domestic Birds) Information

Signs of HPAI in domestic poultry frequently include decreased appetite and activity, respiratory difficulty, dark combs and wattles, and unexplained mortality.

With fair season approaching, ISDA has developed guidance for organizers of poultry exhibitions and exhibitors. These materials can be found on the ISDA website.

Wild Bird Information

Anyone who comes across a sick or dead wild bird should refrain from interacting with it and should contact IDFG at https://idfg.idaho.gov/conservation/wildlife-health.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 15, 2022

CONTACT:

Chanel Tewalt

Chanel.tewalt@isda.idaho.gov

(208) 332-8615

ISDA Announces Approved State Hemp Plan

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture announced today the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s approval of the Idaho State Hemp Plan. Under this plan, the ISDA will begin licensing hemp producers and handlers under Idaho Code and the 2018 Farm Bill.

The ISDA will open online hemp license applications on November 8, 2021. The entire application process will be available online, and the ISDA website includes resource documents to guide applicants through the process.

H.B. 126, the Industrial Hemp Research and Development Act, was signed into law in April. Under the new statute, ISDA was tasked with developing a state hemp plan consistent with the 2018 Farm Bill. The new law also set timelines for a hemp program.

“I’m very proud of the entire ISDA team for working so quickly to implement the new law, and I know we could not have gotten here alone,” said ISDA Director Celia Gould. “We extend our thanks to the Governor’s office, industry stakeholders, Idaho State Police, USDA and the Idaho law enforcement community for excellent collaboration and assistance.”

For technical assistance or questions about hemp licensing, please check the ISDA website or email hemp@isda.idaho.gov.

For Immediate Release

November 1, 2021

Contact: Chanel Tewalt

Direct: (208) 332-8615

Main: (208) 332-8500

chanel.tewalt@isda.idaho.gov

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) Confirmed in Idaho Wild Jackrabbits

BOISE, ID – The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) and Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) announced today the confirmation of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) found in two wild jackrabbits located southwest of the Boise Airport in Ada County. This is first case of RHD identified in wild or domestic rabbits in Idaho.

RHD is not known to affect humans, livestock or any other species of pets. RHD has been identified in other states only in species of wild and domestic rabbits.

RHD is a highly contagious and often deadly virus in rabbits. It is spread through direct contact with an infected animal, carcass, contaminated food/water source or other material coming into direct with an infected rabbit. The virus may also be transmitted by insect vectors such as flies, fleas or mosquitos and can persist in the environment for an extended period of time, making it extremely difficult to eradicate in wild rabbit populations. RHD is known for having a high degree of mortality where, in many cases, the only clinical sign displayed by an infected rabbit is sudden death. In less acute cases, clinical signs may include dullness, loss of appetite, nasal hemorrhage (bloody nose) and congestion of the conjunctiva. Some affected rabbits may develop neurologic signs such as incoordination or seizure-like episodes. Infections in young or adolescent rabbits are usually less severe and death is not as likely.

Wild Rabbit Information
Do not touch any dead rabbits you may see near an area where RHD has been identified. Anyone encountering a dead wild rabbit is asked to leave the carcass in place and contact the IDFG:
• Report it online at https://idfg.idaho.gov/conservation/wildlife-health/add,
• Call Fish and Game’s Wildlife Health Laboratory at (208) 939-9171, or
• Contact a regional Fish and Game office at https://idfg.idaho.gov/offices.

Owners of domestic rabbits should never release their rabbits into the wild.

Domestic Rabbit Information
“Rabbit owners need to be practicing enhanced biosecurity measures at all of their operations,” said Dr. Scott Leibsle, State Veterinarian. “Prevention is the best disease mitigation strategy right now.” ISDA recommends that domestic rabbit owners and breeders of pet, show and meat production rabbits incorporate strict biosecurity measures to protect their rabbits and prevent the spread of the disease. Several biosecurity measures are recommended:
• Do not house rabbits outdoors in areas of the state where RHD has been detected in wild rabbits.
• Take precautions to prevent wild rabbits from coming in contact with or gaining access to a rabbitry.
• Wash your hands with warm soapy water before and after handling a rabbit. Don protective clothing (boots, coveralls, etc) when entering a rabbitry.
• Equipment and cages moved on or off the premises should be cleaned and sanitized with 10% bleach water before returning to the rabbitry.
• Domestic rabbits suspected of being infected with RHD should be isolated immediately from other rabbits and any enclosures should be disinfected thoroughly.

ISDA is not asking domestic rabbit shows or exhibitions be cancelled at this time. If you suspect your rabbit may have RHD, contact your veterinarian immediately and notify the ISDA. RHD is a mandatory reportable disease in Idaho.

An approved RHD vaccine is not currently manufactured in the U.S. Individuals looking to vaccinate their rabbits should contact their veterinarian to arrange for import of a vaccine from European distributors. Veterinarians will need to contact the ISDA regarding the import approval process. Contact the ISDA for more information at (208) 332-8540 or info@isda.idaho.gov.

More information on RHD can be found on the USDA APHIS website https://www.aphis.usda.gov/publications/animal_health/fs-rhdv2.pdf. Updates for domestic rabbit owners will be available on the ISDA website at.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ISDA CONTACT
March 26, 2021 Dr. Scott Leibsle, State Veterinarian
(208) 332-8540
scott.leibsle@isda.idaho.gov