News and Updates

Recent Press Releases

• Celebrating Idaho Agriculture

  March 23, 2021
  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 h... More

• ISDA Confirms Aquatic Weeds in Blue Heart Springs

  March 22, 2021
  The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) has confirmed the presence of Eurasian watermilfoil, an aquatic noxious weed, in Blue Heart Springs near Box Canyon on the Snake River. ISDA’s recent investigation and sampling confirmed the presence of both Andean watermilfoil, a native species, and Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM). “This investigation was initiated after Visit Southern Idaho express... More

• Idaho Continues Work on Invasive Mussels in Aquarium Products

  March 11, 2021
  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 P... More

• Idaho Discovers Invasive Mussels in Aquarium Products

  March 4, 2021
  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-p... More

• ISDA Director Congratulates State Veterinarian on Retirement and Makes New Appointment

  January 28, 2021
  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 producer... More