Category: Uncategorized

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) announced today the decision to reopen a portion of the Snake River to public access, starting Thursday, Oct. 19 at 12:01a.m. The area reopening is from the highwater mark from Highway 46 Bridge upstream to and including the partial bridge structure in the Snake River at the bottom of Yingst Grade (known as “the Broken Bridge,” “Yingst Grade Bridge,” or “the Old Interstate Bridge”).  

Reopening public access to the section of river is in conjunction with Idaho Fish and Game Commission decision to reopen fishing, hunting and trapping in the same area. 

The updated closure prohibiting public entry, as well as hunting, fishing and trapping is from Broken Bridge (approximately one-half mile upstream of Auger Falls) to the Twin Falls Dam.  

“The decision to reopen the section of the river was not taken lightly, but we understand the importance of providing river access in the area,” ISDA Deputy Director Lloyd Knight said. “As we reopen parts of the river, it is critical to the future of the area that anyone who uses the river remembers to follow the steps of clean, drain and dry.” 

All watercraft that enters the reopened area should be taken to the wash station at Twin Falls Visitors Center for decontamination after exiting the river.  

In late September, ISDA closed a portion of the Mid-Snake River to public access, after quagga mussel larvae was detected in the Snake River near Twin Falls on Sept. 18. The ISDA treated a six-mile section of the Mid-Snake River with chelated copper in early October to eliminate quagga mussels, the treatment concluded Oct. 13. 

For more information, visit idaho.gov/quagga.  

ISDA Media Contact:

Sydney Kennedy

Public Information Officer

(208) 332-8507

media@isda.idaho.gov

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) continues quagga mussel treatment in an effort to eradicate the invasive species in the Snake River.

Tuesday October 3, ISDA and contractors launched a comprehensive treatment plan to eradicate quagga mussels at all stages of life. The treatment is the copper-based product, Natrix. Natrix is labeled and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for these kinds of aquatic applications.

The treatment is being applied at one part per million, a rate intended to eradicate mussels at all stages of life but is below the drinking water standard for humans. The copper-based treatment application is occurring across a six-mile section, less than one percent of the Snake River.

The ISDA along with the product manufacturer, the contracted applicator, and the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality are routinely monitoring the water to evaluate treatment effectiveness, impact and dissipation. The treatment will end October 13.

Quagga mussel larvae was first detected in the Snake River near Twin Falls on September 18, 2023, by routine monitoring conducted by the ISDA. If nothing were done, quagga mussels would quickly take over waterways. They would irreparably harm water use in Idaho.

“A project of this scope and complexity would not be possible without significant support and assistance,” said ISDA Director Chanel Tewalt. “Our team and partners are working around the clock to ensure that we leave nothing on the table in this eradication effort.”

The following statements support the ISDA’s quagga mussel treatment in the Snake River:

Governor Brad Little

“The Snake River is Idaho’s lifeblood, and we are doing everything we can to eradicate quagga mussels from our waters. The State of Idaho’s swift, aggressive action plan is spearheaded by the Idaho State Department of Agriculture and involves many partners at all levels. We will not be successful without the support of the public, and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we all work together to protect Idaho and our water. ”

U.S. Senator Mike Crapo

“The Idaho State Department of Agriculture and partnering agencies worked swiftly and decisively to protect Idaho’s rivers and streams from this invasive species. Their efforts support the health and longevity of native river species, as well as protecting the integrity of Idaho’s extensive irrigation systems and our agriculture, aquaculture and recreation industries. I am grateful for the broad stakeholder engagement to eradicate this invasive species and will continue to support efforts to address the threat that quagga mussels present to our state.”

U.S. Senator Jim Risch

“Quagga mussels spread aggressively and pose an extremely damaging threat to irrigators, recreators and all other river users. Idahoans have long worked to keep these invasive species from our waters, and it is pivotal we take their recent emergence seriously and take appropriate action to stop its spread.”

U.S. Representative Mike Simpson

“We must work together to protect our water here in Idaho, said Rep. Simpson. Thank you to Governor Little, the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, and Idaho Fish and Game for their decisive work in treatment and rapid response plan to eradicate this aggressive species. As Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I will continue to advocate for funding of efforts to prevent further spread.”

U.S. Representative Russ Fulcher

“I am closely monitoring the Quagga mussel containment efforts by the Idaho State Department of Agriculture. I am thankful for the ISDA responding so quickly to quell this outbreak. I ask all Idahoans to continue to be vigilant in response to the Quagga mussel.”

Rep. Megan C. Blanksma

“The quagga mussel poses a major threat to Idaho’s water for drinking, energy, agriculture, recreation and more. Vigilance and proactive measures are crucial to mitigate these impacts and protect both our water and way of life here in Idaho. I have first-hand witnessed the scope of situation on the Snake River and am confident that the treatment plan is comprehensive to this area of the Snake River. The Idaho State Department of Agriculture’s plan to implement a copper-based treatment is absolutely essential to eradicating the quagga mussel population.”

Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen

“We owe a great appreciation to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture for being proactive in their early detection monitoring program. Not only did they catch it early but they have a rapid response plan in place. Rapid response programs like this are only made possible because the Idaho Legislature votes to fund these agencies. Thankfully, most Idaho legislators are wise enough to know it is cheaper on the taxpayer to have these programs funded.”

Rep. Lauren Necochea

“I am grateful for the state agencies that have been at the ready to protect our prosperity and quality of life. They have activated a rapid response plan, deploying experts to evaluate the problem and then designed a treatment plan, which they are currently implementing. Treatment with chelated copper, at levels that do not compromise the safety of our water for drinking, is already underway to kill veligers and adult mussels.”

The Nature Conservancy

“TNC firmly believes that the long-term benefits of preventing the spread of quagga mussels across Idaho and the Pacific Northwest far outweigh the short-term side effects of the treatment. Taking no action is not an option―the stakes are too high. We are confident the agencies overseeing the response are taking necessary, urgent action and are doing so with the best science, planning and oversight available.”

Idaho Water Users Association

“IWUA fully supports ISDA. While it is true this treatment will kill aquatic plants and fish, including sturgeon, in a portion of the river, the alternative is much worse. Without treatment, quagga mussels would quickly take over waterways. These mussels harm fish and wildlife habitat. They also clog pumps and pipes that deliver water for drinking, energy, agriculture, recreation and a variety of other uses. If not treated, these impacts will cost Idahoans hundreds of millions of dollars. Idaho Water Users Association fully supports ISDA.”

Idaho Sportsmen Association

“Without this treatment, the quagga mussels will quickly spread and start taking over various waterways, harm wildlife habitats, effect the Columbia River Basin and snake river systems, and have many more detrimental impacts to agriculture, hydro power, drinking water and beyond. We know there will be damage to the fish populations and other species in the local treatment area, but it pales in comparison to the damage caused by an expansion of an aggressive invasive species that threatens our entire state’s well-being and ways of life. Although Idaho Sportsmen Board and members are saddened by the closures and fish mortalities that will occur, we believe the treatment is best for the long-term sustainably of wildlife and their ecosystems.”

Idaho Wildlife Federation

“IWF supports this quick action by the State of Idaho. Quagga mussels can destroy entire aquatic ecosystems. If we don’t get this right – including adhering to recreational closures – the mussels will spread and destroy nearby, world-renowned fisheries like Silver Creek, the South Fork Snake and the lakes of the Sawtooths and the entire Salmon River. Idaho’s fisheries are economic and cultural staples. We must do what we can now to contain and eradicate these mussels to protect those incredible assets.”

Idaho Dairymen’s Association

“The Idaho Dairymen’s Association commends the swift response from the ISDA and supporting agencies in their efforts to eradicate the quagga mussel presence recently discovered in the Snake River below the Twin Falls Dam. The expense to irrigated agriculture and the water systems of rural communities, that support Idaho’s dairy industry, would be immense if the quagga mussels were allowed to persist. We have been able to witness firsthand the efforts of the response team being led by ISDA and fellow agencies and have the upmost confidence in the expertise, passion and desire to do the right thing for Idaho from these individuals. While audacious, treating the river to eliminate the quagga mussel is the absolute correct response. Any risks and short-term impacts caused by treatment are far better than the long-term negatives of not eradicating the quagga mussels from Idaho.”

Idaho Grain Producers Association

“ISDA’s response to the discovery of quagga mussels in the Snake River has been thorough and impressive. It’s hard to fully appreciate the threat posed by this invasive mussel. ISDA moved quickly to gather stakeholders and experts, worked collaboratively to put together an aggressive plan of action, and executed the plan, communicating with stakeholders and community members all along the way. Swift and decisive action was necessary, and that’s what ISDA delivered. The agricultural community is grateful for their hard work and leadership on this pressing issue.”

The ISDA quagga mussel treatment plan was developed with the review and assistance of the following agencies and groups:

• Governor’s Office

• Idaho Office of Species Conservation

• Idaho Department of Fish and Game

• Idaho Department of Environmental Quality

• Idaho Department of Water Resources

• Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation

• Idaho Department of Lands

• Idaho Power

• Canal companies

• Idaho Water Users Association

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

• U.S. Geological Survey

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

• U.S. Bureau of Land Management

• U.S. Bureau of Reclamation

The ISDA is very grateful for continued coordination with the Twin Falls County Commissioners, Jerome County Commissioners, the Twin Falls Mayor, City Council, County Weed Control and law enforcement in both counties.

The Idaho Transportation Department and the Idaho Office of Emergency Management have provided equipment, assistance and expertise throughout the treatment project.

The ISDA is the leading authority for the Snake River quagga mussel treatment. For more information, please visit idaho.gov/quagga.

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) confirmed yesterday the presence of quagga mussel larvae in the Centennial Waterfront Park area of the Snake River. Multiple samples of quagga mussel at larval life stages have been found in the Twin Falls area by ISDA’s early detection monitoring program. 

The findings mark the first time a rapid response plan has been put into action for quagga mussels in Idaho. ISDA is implementing a rapid response plan that includes notifying impacted entities, implementing containment measures, conducting delimiting surveys and evaluating for potential treatment options. 

“These invasive pests will clog pipes that deliver water for drinking, energy, agriculture, and recreation,” Governor Little said. “This is a very high priority for Idaho and for me, given the gravity of the risk. If we are not successful, an unchecked spread – which we are doing all we can to stop – has the potential to cost Idaho hundreds of millions of actual and indirect costs. Thankfully, we caught the mussels early on and have already started a robust response to get these mussels OUT of our waters. We need everyone to support these efforts.” 

ISDA is asking for the public’s cooperation in staying out of the water in the Centennial Waterfront Park area, in an effort to contain the mussel populations. ISDA staff and boats will be in the water performing delimiting surveys to determine the physical range of the impacted area. Boat ramps and public access to the water are closed temporarily. 

“Our Invasive Species Program is prepared to respond to these findings quickly in an effort to contain mussel population growth in such a vulnerable area,” said Chanel Tewalt, ISDA Director. “We greatly appreciate the public’s cooperation and plan on opening the area as soon as possible to minimize the impact to businesses that rely on the Snake River.” 

All watercraft users are encouraged to follow the “Clean, Drain and Dry” actions for watercraft and equipment before entering and after leaving Idaho waterbodies. ISDA watercraft inspection stations are also currently operating across the state and mandatory for watercraft users to stop at.  

For updates on the issue and to view a map of the impacted area, visit agri.idaho.gov/main/plants/snake-river-quagga-mussel-veligers/.

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Sydney Plum 

(208) 631-3178 

Media@isda.idaho.gov 

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture Pesticide Disposal Program announced disposal locations across the state for the month of September.

The ISDA Pesticide Disposal Program provides free and safe disposal of unusable or unwanted pesticides. Participants of the program can be homeowners, farmers, dealers and professional applicators. September locations and dates include:

Idaho Falls / Bonneville County Transfer Station – Sept. 12 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
American Falls / Power County Transfer Station – Sept. 13 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Burley / Bureau of Land Management Field Office – Sept. 14 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Twin Falls / Twin Falls Canal Company – Sept. 26 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Canyon County / Pickles Butte Landfill – Sept. 27 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, motor oil or rinsates other than seed treat rinsates will be accepted. Loads exceeding 1,000 pounds must be pre-registered online.

To pre-register and for fall locations and dates, please call (208) 332-8628 or visit here.

Boise, Idaho – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)this week awarded over $2.1 million in Fiscal Year 2023 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) funding to Idaho.

With this grant, the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) will fund projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crop products and create new market opportunities for the state’s specialty crop producers.

“With this year’s Specialty Crop Block Grant funding, Idaho is investing in innovative projects that will help address the needs of specialty crop producers within the region,” said USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt. “The funded projects will also further USDA’s efforts to ensure U.S. specialty crop products remain competitive in markets across the nation and abroad.”

Through the SCBGP, the ISDA will fund 16 projects. Among ISDA’s projects, is the College of Idaho’s pollinator project. The university will be building on data collected in their previous grant to identify bee specimens collected near to or from specialty crop fields to determine if adjacent lands also contain pollinator habitat. Additional funded projects focus in areas including seed quality and health, disease management and sustainability.

“Each year I am impressed by the wide array of projects that Idaho’s grant recipients execute to further enhance the value of our specialty crops in Idaho,” said ISDA Director Chanel Tewalt. “Specialty crops significantly contribute to Idaho’s agricultural economy, making these projects incredibly important to our state.”

FY 2023 SCBGP Idaho recipients include:

• Boise State University
• College of Southern Idaho
• College of Idaho
• Idaho Eastern-Oregon Seed Association
• Idaho Eastern-Oregon Onion Committee
• Idaho Hop Grower’s Commission
• Idaho Oilseed Commission
• Idaho Preferred
• Idaho Wine Commission
• Panhandle Farm Corridor
• University of Idaho

The funding to Idaho is part of a total of $72.9 million in non-competitive FY 2023 SCBGP funding awarded to 54 states, territories, and the District of Columbia. The SCBGP funding supports farmers growing specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and nursery crops. USDA’s support will strengthen U.S. specialty crop production and markets, ensuring an abundant, affordable supply of highly nutritious fruits, vegetables, and other specialty crops, which are vital to the health and well-being of all Americans.

The funding for the SCBGP grants is authorized by the 2018 Farm Bill and FY2023 funding is awarded for a three-year period beginning Sept. 30, 2023. Since 2006, USDA has invested over $1 billion through the SCBGP to fund nearly 12,000 projects that have increased the long-term successes of producers and enhanced marketing opportunities for U.S. specialty crops products.

More information about these awards is available here.

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) has confirmed multiple cases of equine West Nile virus (WNV) in three horses in Canyon County. 

The three cases are unrelated to one another, and the horses reside at three separate facilities in the county. All three horses are recovering and under the treatment of a veterinarian, however none of the three horses had previously been vaccinated for WNV.   

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 is most commonly 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 West Nile virus vaccination continues to be an essential preventive measure and should be given annually to all horses 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 West Nile are non-vaccinated or under-vaccinated. Horse owners should speak with their veterinarians about the West Nile vaccine and other annual core vaccinations to develop an annual booster schedule. Horses that have been vaccinated for WNV in previous years must receive an annual booster; 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 standing water on or near their property whenever possible.  

Additional information about the virus and a map of known affected counties is available from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

For questions regarding control of mosquito populations, contact your local mosquito abatement district.    

Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little declared August as Farmers Market Month in the State of Idaho to showcase the bounty and diversity of Idaho agriculture.

Idaho Farmers Market Month is an annual celebration of the over 55 farmers markets currently operating throughout the state. This year marks Idaho’s first year of celebrating this dedicated month-long event highlighting the significance of farmers markets across the state. Farmers markets increase access to high-quality, nutritious, locally grown, raised or produced food and agricultural products.

“This month is a reminder of the great value that farmers markets contribute to the overall quality of life in Idaho,” said Erica White, Idaho Preferred Program Manager. “Local farmers markets bring great value to communities across the state by preserving Idaho’s agricultural heritage, contributing to local economies and supporting healthy communities.”

As consumer trends continue to show great interest and demand for eating local, markets across the state are growing in both size and popularity. Farmers markets serve as a platform for educating consumers about the source of their food and local food systems. Markets across Idaho continue to play a vital role in the local food supply chain, offering locally produced food and agriculture products including the freshest fruits, vegetables, meats, breads, flowers, honey and more.

Join Idaho Preferred and the Idaho Farmers Market Association Saturday, August 5 at the Nampa Farmers Market for the inaugural Farmers Market Month kick-off. ISDA Director Chanel Tewalt will read the Governor’s Proclamation. Nampa was recently named the Best Farmers Market in Idaho and the Pacific Northwest Region, and ranked 3rd Best in the Nation in the American Farmland Trust’s annual survey.

“We are proud of our farmers markets across Idaho, all in their own way providing space for local food commerce, while also fostering a stronger connection to our food sources,” said Dawn Larzelier, Idaho Preferred Marketing Analyst. “During Idaho Farmers Market Month, we encourage Idahoans to explore the bountiful offerings of local farmers, ranchers and food crafters. Locating your community market is easier than ever, use the Idaho Preferred Farmers Market Digital Directory to search hours of operation, locations and learn about your market vendors.”

To stay updated on Idaho Farmers Market Month events and activities, visit https://idahopreferred.com/products/farmers-markets or follow @idahopreferred on social media. For more information on Idaho farmers markets you can also visit the Idaho Farmers Market Association website at www.idahofma.org.

About Idaho Preferred:   

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.

Contact:   

Dawn Larzelier, Marketing Analyst  

Idaho Preferred   

(208) 501-4863 

dawn.larzelier@isda.idaho.gov 

 

Boise, Idaho — Governor Brad Little has declared July 16-22, 2023, as Idaho Organics Week, a dedicated time to formally acknowledge and celebrate Idaho’s organic agriculture. 

Idaho Organics Week is an annual celebration dedicated to recognizing and promoting the organic agriculture industry in the state of Idaho. It aims to highlight the economic contributions, environmental benefits and consumer appeal of locally produced organic products. 

“This Idaho Organics Week, we have the opportunity to recognize a valuable sector of Idaho agriculture,” said Chanel Tewalt, ISDA Director. “We are proud to celebrate Idaho’s organic farmers who consistently provide exceptional options to meet the growing demand for organic products.” 

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Idaho’s organic sector is growing with over 350 organic operations on more than 216,000 acres of organic cropland and rangeland. The ISDA Organic Program currently certifies the majority of certified organic operations in the state, serving over 240 of the organic operations within Idaho. Idaho ranks 7th in the nation in number of organic producers throughout the state.

The sales generated by organic agriculture contribute $234 million annually to Idaho’s economy, reinforcing the importance of this sector in the state’s overall financial prosperity. Idaho currently ranks 11th in the nation for overall certified organic sales, offering a diverse range of high-quality organic goods.  

“Consumer demand for organic products continues to increase throughout Idaho, and we want to make it easy for Idahoans to source locally grown and raised organic products,” said Erica White, Idaho Preferred Program Manager. “Whether you’re searching for fresh organic fruits and vegetables, locally raised organic meats or artisanal organic products, the Idaho Preferred Organic Farm + Food Finder Directory is your go-to tool for discovering the diversity of organic options in your area. This comprehensive directory provides a convenient and reliable resource for locating organic farms, food producers and businesses.”

During Idaho Organics Week, Idahoans are encouraged to explore the bountiful offerings of local organic products available at farmers markets, grocery stores and restaurants throughout Idaho. 

For more information and to stay updated on Idaho Organics Week events and activities, please visit idahopreferred.com/organics/ or follow @idahopreferred on social media. 

About Idaho Preferred:  

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.

Contact:

Erica White

Idaho Preferred Program Manager

(208) 332-8532

Erica.White@isda.idaho.gov

 

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture announced the new Homegrown by Heroes merged mark, an ISDA Idaho Preferred Program and the Farmer Veteran Coalition collaboration. This new trademark offers a way for consumers to quickly identify veteran-produced local foods, beverages and agricultural products.

“The ISDA is excited to be partnering with the Farmer Veteran Coalition on this merged trademark,” said Chanel Tewalt, ISDA Director. “It is an honor to be able to offer this new opportunity to highlight the work of veterans who are growing and creating local products. This partnership is a win for all Idaho agriculture, veterans and consumers.”

“With the new merged logo, Idahoans can now quickly find a way to support our veterans and our agriculture sector at the same time,” said Governor Brad Little. “Idaho’s military veterans support our state and communities in so many ways, and my administration was proud to partner with them to promote local products grown and created by our nation’s heroes.”

The finalized trademark combines the Homegrown by Heroes Mark and the Idaho Preferred Mark to represent Idaho agricultural products grown or processed by military veterans. The two trademarks represent a mutual interest of the two organizations, supporting agricultural businesses and military veterans within the State of Idaho.

“The Farmer Veteran Coalition of Idaho, Inc. leadership board is very excited about the release of the new Idaho Preferred Homegrown by Heroes merged logo,” said Bob Wheeler, Idaho Farmer Veteran Coalition President.

To view the final merged trademark visit idahopreferred.com.

The Farmer Veteran Coalition is a non-profit corporation that provides training, education, mentorship and financial support to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces transitioning into the agriculture industry.

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.

Contact:

Erica White

Idaho Preferred Program Manager

(208) 332-8532

Erica.White@isda.idaho.gov

 

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture announced the treatment for Japanese beetle in select Caldwell neighborhoods is to begin this week.

ISDA received permission to treat nearly 830 properties in the residential area bordered by Lincoln Road (North), Franklin Road (South), I-84 (West) and Smeed Parkway (East)