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Free Pesticide Disposal Locations Across Idaho

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) Pesticide Disposal Program announced pesticide disposal locations across the state the week of April 22.

The ISDA Pesticide Disposal Program provides free and safe disposal of unusable or unwanted pesticides. The program is open to homeowners, farmers, dealers and professional applicators. Spring locations and dates include:

Nez Perce County Fairgrounds – April 23 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Canyon County / Pickles Butte Landfill – April 25 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

ISDA pesticide disposal sites will take most pesticides including herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, rodenticides or anything ending with “cide.” No fertilizer, micronutrients, paint, solvents, or motor oil will be accepted. Loads exceeding 1,000 pounds must be pre-registered online.

To pre-register loads exceeding 1,000 pounds and for spring and fall locations and dates, visit agri.idaho.gov/main/pesticides/#Pesticide-Disposal-Program or call (208) 332-8628.

Contact:

Sydney Kennedy

Public Information Officer

sydney.kennedy@isda.idaho.gov

(208) 332-8507

The post Free Pesticide Disposal Locations Across Idaho first appeared on Idaho State Department of Agriculture.

HPAI Detection in Idaho Dairy Herd 

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) identified today highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a Cassia County dairy cattle operation.  

These are the first cases of HPAI in a livestock operation in Idaho. The affected facility recently imported cattle from another state that has identified cases of HPAI in cattle, which suggests the virus may be transmitted from cow-to-cow, in addition to previous reports indicating cattle were acquiring the virus from infected birds.  

The primary concern with this diagnosis is on-farm production losses, as the disease has been associated with decreased milk production.  

Symptoms of HPAI in cattle include: 

    • Drop in milk production 
    • Loss of appetite 
    • Changes in manure consistency 
    • Thickened or colostrum-like milk 
    • Low-grade fever 

At this stage, there is no concern about the safety of the commercial milk supply or that this circumstance poses a risk to consumer health. The pasteurization process of heating milk to a high temperature ensures milk and dairy products can be consumed safely. 

The ISDA encourages all dairy producers to closely monitor their herd and contact their local veterinarian immediately if cattle appear to show symptoms. HPAI is a mandatory reportable disease, and any Idaho veterinarians who suspect cases of HPAI in livestock should immediately report it to ISDA at 208-332-8540 or complete the HPAI Livestock Screen at agri.idaho.gov/main/animals/hpai/.  

It is recommended to enhance biosecurity measures across all livestock facilities in Idaho. Biosecurity practices can be found at agri.idaho.gov/main/animals/hpai/.  

For decades, Idaho has worked diligently to implement industry-driven programs that mitigate the transmission of diseases that cause on-farm economic losses. ISDA’s response to the detection of HPAI in cattle aligns with standard ISDA animal disease detection procedure. 

This is an evolving situation, and additional updates will be provided by ISDA as they become available. 

For more information visit agri.idaho.gov/main/animals/hpai/ or contact ISDA Animal Industries Division (208) 332-8540. 

Media Inquiries

Sydney Kennedy

media@isda.idaho.gov

(208) 332-8507

The post HPAI Detection in Idaho Dairy Herd  first appeared on Idaho State Department of Agriculture.

New Chemigation Bill Changes Licensing Process for Chemigators

Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little signed House Bill 549 into law, marking a significant change in the requirements for chemigators in Idaho.

The new legislation was signed and went into effect on March 19, 2024. The new law reduces paperwork and regulatory burden while still ensuring that chemigators are adequately trained and informed.

“I hope customers feel comfortable coming to us with concerns, and I’m grateful for legislators who do the same,” said Chanel Tewalt, ISDA Director. “A practice being in place for several years does not inhibit us from reevaluating its efficacy for industry. I want industry and policymakers to feel comfortable having conversations with us about how to better serve Idaho agriculture.”

Now to be licensed, chemigators have the option to attend an ISDA training, either in person or online, rather than having to mirror the pesticide applicator licensing process and exams. Previously, all chemigators were required to obtain a pesticide applicators license, regardless of whether they were applying pesticides or fertilizer.

ISDA is implementing a temporary rule to ensure these changes are in place for the 2024 growing season. ISDA chemigation inspections will continue to be performed with the intention of supporting industry in compliance.

Chemigation is the practice of applying pesticides or fertilizers through irrigation systems and has long been a critical component of Idaho farming operations.

For more information on chemigation licensing, contact the ISDA Agricultural Resources Division at (208)332-8605.

Media Contact:

Sydney Kennedy

Public Information Officer

(208) 332- 8507

sydney.kennedy@isda.idaho.gov

The post New Chemigation Bill Changes Licensing Process for Chemigators first appeared on Idaho State Department of Agriculture.

Idaho Agriculture Day at the Capitol Next Tuesday

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture will host a celebration for Idaho Agriculture Day Tuesday, March 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the State Capitol Building.  

Displays recognizing Idaho agriculture will be on the second floor of the Rotunda.  

This engaging opportunity is open to the public to learn more about Idaho agriculture and the impact our state has on today’s food system. Activities and handouts for all ages will be provided.  

Participating organizations providing informational booths and interactive activities: 

    • ISDA Idaho Preferred 
    • Idaho Mint Growers Association 
    • Idaho Eastern Oregon Seed Association 
    • Idaho Wool Growers Association  
    • Dairy West 
    • Snake River Sugar Beet Association  
    • Idaho Wheat Commission  
    • Ada County Farm Bureau 
    • Idaho Barley Commission 
    • Idaho Farm Bureau Federation 
    • Idaho Beef Council 
    • Idaho Potato Commission  
    • Idaho Bean Commission

Join in recognizing the vital role of agriculture in our state, and to support and celebrate our farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers. 

Media Contact: 

Sydney Kennedy  

Public Information Officer 

Sydney.kennedy@isda.idaho.gov 

(208) 986-1566 https://agri.idaho.gov

The post Idaho Agriculture Day at the Capitol Next Tuesday first appeared on Idaho State Department of Agriculture.

Cull Onion Disposal Deadline March 15, 2024

Boise, Idaho – March 15, 2024, is the deadline for disposal of cull onions in Ada, Canyon, Gem, Payette, Owyhee and Washington counties.  

According to Idaho State Statute 02.06.05, Disposal of Cull Onions and Potatoes, all cull or waste onions not useable for human consumption, will be disposed of by an approved method prior to March 15 each year to protect the onion industry from onion maggot. Onions sorted after March 15 must be properly disposed of within one week.  

“The Disposal of Cull Onions Rule allows Idaho to remain the optimal onion producing area that it is,” said Tina Eiman, ISDA Bureau Chief of Field Services. “We’ve had great collaboration from industry and recognize their crucial role in this effort.” 

ISDA inspectors will be monitoring disposal sites to verify that culls are being properly disposed of. Options for proper disposal include pit burial, feeding, composting, spreading, chopping and shredding. The University of Idaho’s “Best Management Practices for Pit Disposal of Cull Onions” (Publication CIS 1064) is referenced in the rules and available through University of Idaho Extension. 

Onion maggot is an aggressive pest that reproduces quickly. The larval stage of the onion maggot attacks and destroys germinating seedlings by feeding on roots. Later generations feed on expanding bulbs which could further devastate onion yields. Feeding damage also provides an avenue for pathogens to rot bulbs during storage. 

For the full cull onion disposal rule, visit agri.idaho.gov. 

Contact:

Tina Eiman

tina.eiman@isda.idaho.gov

(208) 736-2195

The post Cull Onion Disposal Deadline March 15, 2024 first appeared on Idaho State Department of Agriculture.

Gov. Little Declares February 19-25, 2024, Idaho Community Supported Agriculture Week

Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little proclaimed February 19-25, 2024, as Idaho Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Week, recognizing the vital contribution of local family-owned farms and ranches to Idaho’s economy and community resilience.

“Community Supported Agriculture plays a pivotal role in connecting consumers with local farmers and ranchers while promoting the consumption of high-quality, Idaho-grown produce,” says Laura Johnson, ISDA Marketing Bureau Chief. “Governor Little’s proclamation reaffirms the state’s commitment to fostering a strong agricultural economy and supporting our local farmers.”
nCSA is a program in which consumers purchase shares or memberships from a local agricultural producer of an upcoming harvest. In return, consumers receive fresh agricultural goods including protein, dairy, produce, eggs, flowers and even honey.

There are over 80 CSA programs available across Idaho, providing residents with ample opportunities to directly engage with local farmers and ranchers when sourcing of their food.

“Idaho CSA Week provides a fantastic way for Idaho residents to come together to forge connections with their farmers, savor freshly harvested grown and raised products, and actively bolster their community’s local food network,” said Erica White, Idaho Preferred Program Manager.

CSA’s help producers raise working capital to expand their operations while minimizing their risk. In turn, a CSA model helps producers increase their income streams, contributing to the development, operation, and expansion of Idaho’s local agricultural economy.

For more information on Idaho CSA Week and to discover local CSA’s, visit https://idahopreferred.com/community-supported-agriculture/.

Contact:

Erica White

Program Manager

Idaho State Department of Agriculture Idaho Preferred

erica.white@isda.idaho.gov

The post Gov. Little Declares February 19-25, 2024, Idaho Community Supported Agriculture Week first appeared on Idaho State Department of Agriculture.

ISDA Looks to Award Over $5.0 Million to Strengthen Food Supply Chain Infrastructure

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) announced today the competitive solicitation process to award over $5.0 million in Resilient Food System Infrastructure (RFSI) Grants.

Grants will fund projects that enhance markets for producers and improve transportation of Idaho food products to local or regional markets. Agricultural producers, processors, nonprofit organizations, for-profit entities, local government entities, tribal governments and educational institutions are eligible to apply for funding.

Through stakeholder engagement and outreach, Idaho identified top priorities to expand capacity for food and beverage processing and manufacturing. Priorities include co-pack facilities, support construction of a new facility, modernize or expand an existing facility, as well as improve the aggregation and distribution of agricultural products.

In May 2023, USDA announced the availability of up to $420 million through RFSI to strengthen local and regional food systems. Through this program, the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has entered into cooperative agreements with state agencies, commissions, or departments responsible for agriculture, commercial food processing, seafood or food system and distribution activities or commerce activities in states or U.S. territories. RFSI is authorized by the American Rescue Plan.

The Idaho RFSI program is contingent upon approval of the Idaho Legislature. The spending authority for this program requires legislative approval. In order to meet USDA deadlines, ISDA will be accepting applications in advance. Grants will only be awarded if approved in ISDA’s FY25 budget.

Those interested in receiving an award should apply directly through the ISDA at agri.idaho.gov/rfsi by Friday, Mar. 15, 2024.

ISDA RFSI Grant Application Support Events:

Application Webinar – Jan. 31, 1 p.m. Mountain Time.

Question and Answer Session – Feb. 7, 1p.m. Mountain Time

Question and Answer Session – Feb. 21, 1p.m. Mountain Time

Question and Answer Session – Mar. 7, 1 p.m. Mountain Time

Visit agri.idaho.gov/rfsi for more details.

Contact:

Laura Johnson

ISDA Marketing Bureau Chief

laura.johnson@isda.idaho.gov

Office: (208) 332-8533

The post ISDA looks to award over $5.0 million to strengthen food supply chain infrastructure first appeared on Idaho State Department of Agriculture.

Snake River Closure Update

December 18, 2023

Water Closure 

ISDA’s water closure along the Snake River has been amended as of December 18. Beginning December 18, water access is open to the public between Broken Bridge (Yingst Grade) and Pillar Falls. Water access from Pillar Falls to Twin Falls Dam remains closed (IDAPA 02.06.09.135).

Water access between Broken Bridge (Yingst Grade) and Pillar Falls is accessible only during Centennial Park operating hours. Current operating hours at Centennial Park are 8a.m. to 6p.m., weather dependent.

Decontamination

Decontamination for watercraft entering and exiting the river between Broken Bridge (Yingst Grade) and Pillar Falls is mandatory. Any watercraft or conveyance is required to be decontaminated prior to launch and upon exit of the river. The decontamination station is operating at Centennial Park.

Watercraft includes but is not limited to boats, kayaks, paddleboards and other devices used in water. Conveyances including duck decoys, waders, fishing tackle, life jackets, and anything that has touched the water must also be decontaminated. ISDA watercraft inspections and decontaminations are free to the public.

Mandatory decontamination applies to all watercraft launches anywhere between Broken Bridge (Yingst Grade) and Pillar Falls. Watercraft launched at any access points between Broken Bridge (Yingst Grade) and Pillar Falls (i.e. Auger Falls Park, Yingst Grade shoreline access, etc.) must be decontaminated at Centennial Park prior to launch and upon exit of the river.

Access to the river between Broken Bridge (Yingst Grade) and Pillar Falls is prohibited outside of Centennial Park operating hours. Access to Snake River from Pillar Falls upstream to Twin Falls Dam remains closed.

See the decontamination and closure map here.

Monitoring the Impacted Area

Copper levels in the Snake River have dissipated as anticipated and ISDA is not detecting any additional copper in the river system. The adult mussel that was identified in the river pre-treatment experienced mortality within 48 hours of the first treatment block. Although initial veliger sample results indicated the treatment impacted larvae and adult populations, it is premature to conclude complete eradication at this stage. Quagga mussels generally stop reproducing once the water is below 14 degrees Celsius. Sampling will begin again in the spring once water temperatures reach 14 degrees Celsius. Surveying will be an ongoing effort to determine the success of the treatment.

Outside the Impacted Area

We urge all Idaho watercraft owners to CLEAN DRAIN DRY. Please reach out to ISDA at any time for a free decontamination wash. 1-877-336-8676

Media Contact:

Sydney Kennedy

Public Information Officer

(208) 332-8507

media@isda.idaho.gov

General Questions:

(208) 332-8620

info@isda.idaho.gov

ISDA Announces 2024 Specialty Crop Grant Application

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture announced today the application for 2024 Specialty Crop Block Grants is now open. The new deadline for submitting all application materials is Thursday, February 1, 2024.

“Past initiatives through the Specialty Crop Grant have led to progress in research, technology, education, and market growth, which have delivered enduring advantages for Idaho’s producers,” said Laura Johnson, ISDA Marketing Bureau Chief. “Idaho organizations investing time into into these innovative projects helps address the needs of specialty crop producers in the Gem State.”

The Department anticipates receiving an allocation of over $2 million from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to award to projects that enhance the competitiveness of Idaho specialty crops.

Specialty crops defined by USDA under this program to include fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, nursery crops including floriculture and honey. To be eligible, projects must benefit more than one entity.

Last year, the department awarded funding to 16 projects with an average allocation of $116,000 each. Projects benefitted vegetable seed, culinary mustard, hops, pollinators, onions, potatoes, sweet corn wine and grapes. Activities included domestic and international market expansion and trade facilitation, pest and disease control, crop management and pollinator identification.

An application webinar will be held Tuesday, November 28 at 2:00 pm MT. All application materials and information about the application webinar may be found at www.agri.idaho.gov/scbg/ 

For more information on grant applications, contact Laura Johnson at (208) 332-8533 or at Laura.Johnson@isda.idaho.gov.

Idaho Preferred Ag-Artisan Gift Boxes 2023

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture’s Idaho Preferred program announced the launch of the fifth annual Ag-artisan Holiday Gift Box. The latest initiative for the upcoming holiday season is an opportunity for Idahoans to support farmers, ranchers and food crafters across the Gem State.

“This gift is more than a box of great tasting products, it’s become a beloved tradition for Idahoans to share a bit on Idaho nostalgia for the holidays and an most importantly, it supports some of our local agricultural producers.” said Erica White, Idaho Preferred Program Manager. “The Holiday Gift Box features wonderful array of Idaho sourced food, beverage and skin care products together in this one-of-a-kind agricultural experience.”

2023 will include an expanded selection of two holiday gift box collections to showcase more of Idaho’s producers. With contributions from more than 25 Idaho farmers, ranchers and food crafters from across the state, the boxes showcase Idaho’s agricultural diversity and indulges in the spirit of the season.

The 2023 Holiday Gift Boxes Include:

Box 1

Box 2:

Each 2023 Ag-Artisan Holiday Gift Box collection is priced at $59.99 + tax /shipping and the retail value of each box collection is $85.00. This not-for-profit promotion is intended to support our farmers, ranchers and local food economies from the ground up.

Learn more about  2023 Holiday Gift Box offerings and place your order at https://idahopreferred.com/holiday-gift-box/ Supplies are limited. The holiday gift boxes are sold separately and will be shipped in mid-December to ensure they arrive in time for your holiday celebrations.

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

Contact:

Erica White

Idaho Preferred Program Manager

(208) 972-9955

erica.white@isda.idaho.gov