Category: Newsletter
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
Celebrating Idaho Agriculture
March 23 marks the celebration of National Ag Day.
This past year has given us much to reflect on and appreciate about the importance of food production. Throughout the pandemic Idaho agriculture experienced severe economic swings and workforce challenges.
Still, we saw agriculture’s unique perseverance in spite of significant setbacks. Because agriculture was still working, Idahoans could have faith in our food supply.
In any given year, Idaho agriculture is an economic powerhouse. Food production and processing account for nearly one-fifth of Idaho’s total economic output. Agriculture is a diverse and highly productive industry. And, it remains the backbone of small and large communities across the state.
While we celebrate the tremendous productivity of Idaho agriculture, this way of life ultimately is about people.
It’s about farmers and ranchers whose tireless work truly sustains life here and across the world.
It’s about farm workers without whom this industry would be unrecognizable.
It’s about food processors who enhance and elevate agriculture with innovation.
And, it’s about consumers who are invited to experience the bounty and proud heritage of Idaho agriculture.
This is not some faraway notion. Agriculture is the inimitable link between people.
Whether you are enjoying your favorite Idaho meal or learning more about the way your food is produced, I hope you join me in celebrating National Ag Day.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 22, 2021
By ISDA Director Celia Gould
Idaho Continues Work on Invasive Mussels in Aquarium Products
Since detections of zebra mussels in aquarium products last week, the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) has continued working in coordination with state and federal partners to further identify retail distribution, collect affected products, and ensure proper disposal. This collaborative approach has included several activities:
Activation of the Columbia River Basin Rapid Response Plan
As a standing member of the Columbia River Basin Team, ISDA participates in multi-agency coordination for planning purposes outside of emergencies and also during incidents requiring coordinated response. The CRB Team includes state, federal, Tribal, and university partners which strategize response models and planning for invasive species detections.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
This week, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) assigned enforcement officers to visit pet and aquarium vendors and aquarium product distributors/wholesalers across the country in order to continue the traceback of product origination, retail distribution and sales, and if samples show the presence of zebra mussels. Not all states have invasive species program equipped for enforcement actions, so USFWS activities help to ensure a nationwide response to the issue. USFWS is coordinating with Idaho and other states with invasive species programs to avoid duplication of work. USFWS also is investigating what federal regulations or statutes may have been violated. USFWS is handling any follow-up on possible violations.
Effective March 10, USFWS updated their recommendations for treatment and disposal of moss balls, water, and other affected aquarium material. Again, USFWS’s approach must anticipate needs and requirements across the entire country and not just in individual states. ISDA appreciates these new recommendations and considers them the most current and relevant recommendation. Recommendations from northwest states were developed to be consistent with the regional partners, but the new recommendations better address concerns with treatment of water and products before disposal. The new recommendations for Destroy! Don’t Dump! can be found on the USFWS website.
New recommendations specify additional disposal requirements:
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- DO NOT dispose of moss balls in drains, waterways, or gardens. Moss balls must be destroyed and disposed of in a sealed container in the trash.
- DESTROY moss balls by freezing, boiling, or by submersing in chlorine bleach or undiluted white vinegar.
- DISPOSE of moss balls and any packaging in a sealed plastic bag in the trash. If vinegar, boiling water, or bleach was used, the liquid can be disposed of down a household drain but never down a storm drain where it could enter and damage local waterways.
- DRAIN and clean the aquarium using either a hot water or disinfection method, keeping manufacturer recommendations in mind.
Continued Investigation in Idaho
ISDA staff have continued to investigate additional distributors shipping product to Idaho retail stores. ISDA’s intent is to verify presence or absence of invasive mussels. To date no additional distributors or Idaho retail stores have been identified with contaminated aquarium stock. ISDA recommends all aquarium owners carefully examine their own material for invasive species and follow the steps to safely dispose of contaminated material.
ISDA recommends the public contact the Idaho Invasive Species Program hotline at (877) 336-8676 or via email at info@isda.idaho.gov.
This investigation effort is ongoing and evolving. We encourage stakeholders to check for updates on the ISDA Invasive Species website – invasivespecies.idaho.gov.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 11, 2021
Contact: Lloyd Knight
Mobile: (208) 859-4173
Lloyd.knight@isda.idaho.gov
Idaho Discovers Invasive Mussels in Aquarium Products
The Idaho State Department of Agriculture’s (ISDA) Invasive Species Program announced today the detection of invasive zebra mussels in aquarium products sold in the state. The ISDA has found live, viable zebra mussels in Marimo moss balls which commonly are sold for use in aquariums.
ISDA officials were first made aware of the issue Wednesday and agency personnel immediately responded with in-person inspections. ISDA’s response has been part of a coordinated nationwide effort to remove these products from store shelves and advise stores and the public about proper disposal of affected material.
ISDA is working with local Petco store managers to obtain any additional product currently in transit. “Store managers and staff have been very cooperative in this process,” said Nic Zurfluh, Invasive Species Section Manager. “They have worked with us, and we are grateful for their understanding.”
What the Public Can Do
Do not dump aquarium tank water or dispose of moss balls in natural waterbodies.
Aquarium owners can safely dispose of the moss ball(s) by one of two methods:
- Remove the moss ball(s) and place in a plastic bag. Put the bag in a freezer and leave for at least 24 hours. After that, the moss ball(s) can be disposed of in the trash.
- Place moss ball(s) in boiling water for at least one full minute. After that, the moss ball(s) can be disposed of in the trash.
For moss balls that have already been in an aquarium, the ISDA recommends cleaning the entire aquarium:
- Collect fish and plants and place them in another container. Dispose of the water in a sink or toilet (municipal wastewater is treated to kill pathogens, and septic tanks are fully self-contained underground).
- Carefully scrub the tank, accessories, rocks, and decorations with a strong solution of chlorine bleach/water. Another option (if you don’t want to use chlorine bleach) is to carefully use water that is 140 degrees to flush and coat all the tank and accessory surfaces. ISDA recommends another water change within a week and to continue to monitor the tank for any unusual aquatic growth.
- For very large aquariums that you may not be able to completely dewater/decontaminate, dispose of the moss ball(s) as above. It is recommended that you do conduct frequent water changes and continue to monitor the tank for any unusual aquatic growth.
“We have always said private citizens are Idaho’s best line of defense in protecting our state from invasive species,” said Zurfluh. “Once again, we are asking for Idahoans help to keep invasive species from getting a foothold in our state.”
Anyone with questions or concerns about zebra mussels or other invasive species concerns may contact the ISDA Invasive Species Hotline at (877)336-8676 or info@isda.idaho.gov.
About the Invasive Species Program
“Many people are familiar with our Invasive Species Program’s effort to inspect boats coming to the state. However, many do not realize that the agency works year-round to monitor and respond to threats of all kinds,” said ISDA Director Celia Gould. “Today’s announcement underscores the importance of dynamic monitoring and significant collaboration.”
Zebra mussels are aquatic invasive species that establish themselves in lakes, rivers, canals, and water systems where they cause significant ecological damage as well as damage to irrigation and water distribution systems. They are not currently found in the Columbia River Basin or Idaho, where ISDA operates a significant prevention effort highlighted by watercraft inspection stations located statewide.
Quagga and zebra mussels can clog pipes and mechanical systems of industrial plants, utilities, locks, and dams. If zebra or zebra mussels were to infest Idaho’s waters, as they have done in other states, it could cost the state nearly $100 million annually in damage and lost revenue.
The ISDA’s Invasive Species Program has been in place for 13 years working to protect Idaho’s waterways and environment from invasive species. The Program works with partners across the state, nation and with neighboring countries.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 4, 2021
Media contact: Lloyd Knight
Phone: (208) 859-4173
Lloyd.knight@isda.idaho.gov
ISDA Director Congratulates State Veterinarian on Retirement and Makes New Appointment
Idaho State Department of Agriculture Director Celia Gould announced today the appointment of Scott Leibsle, DVM, as the new State Veterinarian following the retirement of Bill Barton, DVM.
“Dr. Barton showed his deep love of agriculture through years of service and with steadfast commitment to all Idahoans,” said Gould. “He will always have a special place within this agency and among producers. I am honored to have worked alongside Bill these many years.”
Dr. Barton worked for the ISDA for 14 years. Among his successes as State Veterinarian, Barton and his staff efficiently responded to animal disease events, supported service to a growing livestock sector, and worked on behalf of our producers to maintain a functional marketplace in Idaho and beyond.
“As sad as I am to see Dr. Barton’s departure from the agency, I am excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Scott Leibsle as State Veterinarian and administrator of the ISDA’s Animal Industries Division,” said Gould. “I am incredibly grateful to have someone with his energy, intellect and experience. Scott has my complete confidence. He will be a great fit for this important role.”
Dr. Leibsle received his veterinary degree from the University of Wisconsin, School of Veterinary Medicine in 2003. Leibsle worked in Idaho for the first time in 2005, when he practiced for two years at Sawtooth Equine Service in Bellevue. He then went on to become the third generation of his family to practice large animal medicine at Elkhorn Veterinary Clinic in Wisconsin. After five years of dairy and equine private practice, Leibsle moved back to Idaho in 2011 to join the ISDA as the Deputy State Veterinarian. In his most recent position, Leibsle played an active role in the oversight of Idaho’s dairy industry, coordination of animal care training for Idaho law enforcement and the development of Idaho’s livestock traceability program. Leibsle is one of only 55 veterinarians nationwide to be board certified in equine practice.
Idaho’s State Veterinarian also serves as the administrator for the ISDA’s Division of Animal Industries, which oversees livestock health, dairies and dairy processors, rangeland services and other aspects of animal-related agriculture. Dairy and beef cattle production are Idaho’s largest agricultural sectors. The two sectors make up over half of Idaho agriculture’s total farm gate receipts.
Dr. Leibsle’s appointment is effective immediately.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 28, 2021
Contact: Chanel Tewalt
Phone: (208) 332-8615
Students Experience Idaho Agriculture in Farm to Summer Programs
For most kids, summer means fun in the sun and a break from school but it can also mean a decreased amount of learning and one less meal for some students. ISDA’s Idaho Preferred program partnered with schools, youth centers, and picnic in the park programs around the gem state to lessen the gap and ensure everyone
has a healthy meal and learns the importance of Idaho agriculture.
Farm to Summer is a youth-focused food program that works with food service staff to provide a free Idaho focused meal full of local food, a lesson about Idaho agriculture, and often a bag filled with promotional items from sponsors like Dairy West and North West Farm Credit Services. Students are also given local farm-fresh produce at each location thanks to sponsors including the Ada County Farm Bureau.
This summer season has been the best yet for the 3-year-old program. In addition to events in the Treasure Valley, locations were added in Twin Falls, Moscow, and Coeur d’Alene for a total of 10 Farm to Summer events throughout the state. Featured products this year included donut peaches from Garrett Ranches, corn from Blue Barn Produce, cherries and apricots from Symms Fruit Ranch, and peaches and carrots from Stoops Produce.
Buyers from Taiwan Met with Idaho Producers
In August, a buying delegation from Taiwan came to Idaho looking for new and innovative products. Pre-qualified and serious buyers 
from six Taiwanese companies made the trip to learn more about Idaho’s agricultural offerings.
The group met with Idaho purveyors of pet products, beer, wine, grains, onions, fruit, and, of course, potatoes. They learned about production methods and best practices which are important considerations in their markets.
Buyers from Taiwan continue to seek out safe, healthy, and unique items for their customers. Products from the United States are known for their high quality, and Idaho’s strong relationship with Taiwan creates excellent opportunities for exports.
These inbound buying groups strengthen current relationships and cultivate new ones. The Idaho companies that participated anticipate making exports sales because of this inbound from Taiwan.
Walmart Promotes Idaho Beers During Craft Beer Month
During the month of April, Idaho Preferred and Walmart paired up with Payette Brewing, 10 Barrel Brewing, and Sockeye to celebrate Idaho Craft Beer Month.
The collaboration included educational signage and creative displays in 8 different Walmart stores across the Treasure Valley. “Thank you again for the program support in Walmart this past April,” said Darren from Payette Brewing. “Idaho Craft Beer Month has become a very competitive proposition among breweries.
Of course, the focus on local and the great beers we make is the message consumers want to hear. We had a good lift in Walmart this April, with an increase of almost 70%!”. Idaho is the ideal state for promoting craft beer month as the state is 1st in malt barley production and 2nd in hop production in the U.S.
Mexico Beef Cattlemen Visit Idaho Cattle Ranches
On July 28 – August 1, 2019, six Mexican cattle ranchers visited Idaho to source Idaho livestock and livestock genetics for the Mexican market. Tours and meetings centered around helping the delegation learn first-hand about Idaho’s robust beef industry and reputation for outstanding cattle and exceptional breeding programs.
Some of the Mexican cattlemen were from fourth-generation cattle operations. Their ranches ranged from 50 – 850 head, 100 – 15,000 acres, and elevations from 4,800 – 9,000 feet. The cattle ranchers were looking for mostly Angus (both black and red) and Hereford cattle.
During the mission, the delegation toured and met with Idaho cattle ranchers and industry leaders. The tour and meeting schedule covered three full days including visits to various ranches and feedlots as well as a stop at the University of Idaho Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension and Education Center in Carmen.
The delegates universally lauded the consistent quality of the cattle they saw and were very impressed by Idaho’s beef cattle industry. Several of the ranchers are already making plans to return to Idaho to attend some of the October heifer sales.
The inbound mission was sponsored by the U.S. Livestock Genetics Export Inc. (USLGE). For more information on USLGE and participating in future missions, please contact Laura Johnson at laura.johnson@isda.idaho.gov.
The Boise Office has a New PO Box Address
The ISDA Boise office has consolidated its PO Box addresses into a single PO Box. The new PO Box address for marketing is effective immediately:
Idaho State Department of Agriculture
PO. Box 7249
Boise, ID 83707
Please revise your records accordingly.