“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 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

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

Cessation of Seed Indemnity Fund Assessments

Boise, Idaho – Effective January 1, 2022, all licensed Idaho seed buyers currently withholding or deducting Seed Indemnity Fund (SIF) assessments from purchase payments or contract settlement payments to Idaho seed producers shall discontinue such withholdings and assessments.

The Idaho SIF had a balance of $11.7 million as of October 31, 2021. The SIF balance is expected to nearly reach the statutory maximum amount of $12 million by year’s end.

Licensed seed buyers will need to continue filing quarterly indemnity fund reports and species reports on a quarterly basis to report total gross dollars in purchases or contract settlements with Idaho seed producers.

Any purchase payments and final contract settlements made on or before December 31, 2021, will remain subject to SIF assessments and reporting requirements.

Questions or requests for additional information may be directed to Kyle Wilmot, Warehouse Control Bureau Chief at (208) 332-8612 or kyle.wilmot@agri.idaho.gov, or to Casey Thompson, Warehouse Control Ag Investigator, Sr. at (208) 332-8662 or casey.thompson@agri.idaho.gov.

For Immediate Release

November 19, 2021

Contact: Kyle Wilmot

Kyle.Wilmot@isda.idaho.gov

Direct: 208-332-8500

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

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:

- 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