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A publication of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture JONES TAKES OFFICE AS NASDA PRESIDENT NASDA CONCLUDES SUCCESSFUL ANNUAL MEETING TASK FORCE CREATED TO RESOLVE GRAIN WAREHOUSE ISSUES APHIS OFFICIALS AND AFFILIATE GROUP LEADERS REPORT TO ANIMAL AND PLANT INDUSTRIES COMMITTEE COMMITTEE ADDRESSES FOOD SAFETY AND SECURITY MARKETING AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMITTEE DISCUSSES TRADE ISSUES DURING ANNUAL MEETING NASDA COMMITTEE PLANS WORK ON ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES PESTICIDE COMMITTEE PLANS ACTIVE AGENDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND FINANCIAL SECURITY COMMITTEE CONSIDERS CRITICAL ISSUES DOUGLASS HONORED FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO AGRICULTURE NASDA HONOR AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED NASATO BECOMES NEWEST NASDA AFFILIATE State News--HEARINGS SET FOR WISCONSIN PLANT INSPECTION RULE AND FEES State News--POULTRY PRODUCERS, BIRD OWNERS ASKED TO MONITOR FOR DISEASE State News--JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: ASSISTANT DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR ANIMAL HEALTH PROGRAMS Past Issues
What's New on the NASDA Website
Biosecurity and Farm Bill Implementation Guides Tri-National Accord Working Group Meeting Documents House Ag Committee Recommendations Concerning the Transfer of APHIS Testimony concerning the proposed transfer of APHIS to the Department of Homeland Security NASDA Comments on EPA Budget Priorities Letter to Congress urging permanent authorization of the specialty crop block grant program Preliminary Specialty Crop Report
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JONES TAKES OFFICE AS NASDA PRESIDENT Arizona Agriculture Director Sheldon R. Jones assumed the office of NASDA president this week during NASDA 2002, NASDA's annual meeting in Lexington, Kentucky. Jones succeeds Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Billy Ray Smith for a one-year term as president and will serve through September 2003. Additional Board of Directors officers elected include Gene Hugoson, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, as president-elect; Nathan R. Rudgers, commissioner of the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets, as vice president; and J. Carlton Courter, III, commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, as secretary-treasurer. Smith, who assumes the post of past president, will complete the five-member Executive Committee of the NASDA Board. Regional representatives on the Board are Michael Scuse, secretary of the Delaware Department of Agriculture; Dr. Lester Spell, commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce; Roger Johnson, commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Agriculture; and Phil Ward, director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Jones has been a member of NASDA's Board of Directors for three years. In 2001, he became chair of NASDA's Marketing and International Trade Committee and recently hosted the twelfth meeting of the Tri-National Agricultural Accord, a meeting between the state and provincial departments of agriculture of the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Jones served as president of the Western United States Agricultural Trade Association or WUSATA in 2001. Jones has served as director of the Arizona Department of Agriculture since 1997. He is a committee chairman for the Arizona Mexico Commission, secretary/treasurer of the Arizona National Livestock Show, and an Arizona 4-H Foundation Board of Trustee. He is a member of the following: Arizona Agribusiness Council, the Babbitt Ranch Board of Directors, the Project CENTRL Board of Directors, the Arizona Agricultural Literacy Foundation Advisory Council and Jones serves on the Arizona State University East Morrison School of Agribusiness and Resource Management Dean's Advisory Council. He also represents Gov. Jane Dee Hull at the National Governor's Ethanol Coalition. (Contact: Rick Kirchhoff) NASDA CONCLUDES SUCCESSFUL ANNUAL MEETING NASDA members capped off their 2002 Annual Meeting in Lexington, Kentucky, last week with excellent participation from the states and federal officials. Highlights included panel discussions on farm bill implementation and homeland security. The plenary session was opened with officials from USDA and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) who addressed farm bill implementation. USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Bill Hawks discussed country of origin labeling and USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Associate Administrator for Programs John Johnson outlined changes in major farm programs, funding levels, and the status of rulemakings. Bruce Knight, chief of USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), gave a perspective on the role of conservation in U.S. farm policy. Knight emphasized that the new farm bill provides a great deal of flexibility for America's farmers and ranchers. He said that NASDA's Farm Policy Initiative played an important role as congressional and administration leaders developed legislation. During a discussion on homeland security, Food and Drug Administration Senior Associate Commissioner Dr. Murray Lumpkin outlined the agency's priorities and outlook on food security and bioterrorism activities. USDA Under Secretary Hawks also addressed agriculture and food security. The common theme throughout their remarks was emphasis on partnerships with state departments of agriculture to ensure homeland security. NASDA's six policy committees met over the weekend to review numerous issues, examine proposed policy amendments, and to set committee work agendas for the next six months (see separate stories). During the business session NASDA members formally adopted the committee reports and policy amendments, and debated other matters. (Contact: Charlie Ingram) TASK FORCE CREATED TO RESOLVE GRAIN WAREHOUSE ISSUES North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson chaired an open meeting for all NASDA members on the final regulations of the U.S. Grain Warehouse Act published in August 2002. The majority of states were represented at the meeting. Bert Farrish, deputy administrator, Commodity Operations, Farm Service Agency; Steve Gill, director, Warehouse and Inventory Division; and Ralph Linden, USDA-Office of General Counsel, reported on the development and status of the final regulations. Randy Gordon of the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) provided an industry perspective and Bob Leach, president of the Association of American Warehouse Control Officials, listed ramifications of the final regulations. During the discussions, it was suggested by NGFA that a task force be developed with all appropriate parties represented to develop a course of action that will fulfill the needs of producers, grain elevators, states, and USDA. Questions were raised to USDA about withdrawing the section of the rule regarding "merchandising" until the issues were resolved. USDA said that could not be done at this time. In subsequent conversations with Johnson and Montana Agriculture Director Ralph Peck, Deputy Administrator Bert Farrish agreed that USDA would support the creation of a task force to address this issue and that USDA would agree to a 90-day moratorium on the issuance of new federal warehouse licenses. NASDA will be developing a plan of action for the task force in the coming weeks and will seek input from interested states and groups. (Contact: Jennifer Yezak Molen) APHIS OFFICIALS AND AFFILIATE GROUP LEADERS REPORT TO ANIMAL AND PLANT INDUSTRIES COMMITTEE NASDA's Animal and Plant Industries Committee chaired by West Virginia Agriculture Commissioner Gus Douglass heard from Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services' (APHIS) Administrator Bobby Acord; Dr. Ron DeHaven, deputy administrator for Veterinary Services; Dr. Ric Dunkle, deputy administrator for Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ); and Bill Clay, deputy administrator for Wildlife Services. APHIS Administrator Bobby Acord provided an update to the committee on Homeland Security legislation. The current prediction is that Congress will not take action on the legislation before it leaves for adjournment. However, planning and discussions continue on how plant protection and quarantine officers and technicians would operate under a new Department of Homeland Security (DHS). He reported that one consolidated border agency under DHS will provide more opportunity to inspect cargo and conduct a greater amount of examinations. Acord also informed the committee about the new Biotechnology Regulatory Services (BRS) program at APHIS. The reorganized program includes divisions formerly part of plant protection and quarantine and veterinary services. The goal is to have a vigorous regulatory system that is focused to handle a range of biotechnology issues. A high priority for APHIS is to improve communications with all state departments of agriculture as well as affiliated groups such as the National Plant Board and the U.S. Animal Health Association. Ron DeHaven, deputy administrator of Veterinary Services, provided an overview of several critical issues including (1) emergency preparedness, (2) chronic wasting disease (CWD), (3) an outbreak of exotic newcastle disease, and (4) latest activities regarding low pathogenic avian influenza. He discussed how APHIS is setting up area emergency management coordinators as part of the national framework to respond to emergencies and the development of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network that would include (1) all state diagnostic labs linked through a communication system, (2) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) providing training, certification, and proficiency testing, and (3) a link to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The purpose of the lab network is to expand capacity during a foreign animal disease (FAD) outbreak, increase surveillance, and establish an effective reporting system. In regards to CWD, there are currently 23 cervid herds in eight states with the disease and six states are reporting that wildlife has CWD. Dr. Ric Dunkle, deputy administrator, PPQ, provided a report that covered homeland security, new pest incursions, critical trade issues, and pest risk assessment program. Major challenges facing PPQ are gearing up the Pest Detection Initiative (PDI), off-shore mitigation strategies, the future of PPQ post at the new Department of Homeland Security and working through the transition, and strengthening partnerships with NASDA, the National Plant Board, research and development organizations and other related groups. Bill Clay, deputy administrator, Wildlife Services, provided a brief update on the activities and programs that are currently underway at his divisions. He informed the committee that Wildlife Services conducted a survey of state departments of agriculture to determine how well the states and Wildlife Services are working together. He said that about 27 states had already responded and he encouraged other states to complete the survey. Wildlife Services plans to share the information with the states and determine if changes are needed in providing services. New York Agriculture Commissioner Nathan Rudgers provided a detailed report on New York's program to remove avian influenza from the live bird market and the resources the program incurred. Through its program, New York was able to identify flaws in the current monitoring program, such as integrating program elements across state lines and identifying control elements at the farmgate. As part of the solution, indemnity must be supplied, lot identification used, and consideration must be given to the differences in the commercial bird market and the live bird market. Additionally, consideration should be given to the concept of compartmentalizing the risk to specific industry sectors and that discussions should be held at the federal level. Amy Bradford, issues management liaison, Illinois Department of Agriculture, provided a report on the Central States Animal Emergency Coordinating Council and the functional exercise that took place on July 25 to 26 in Springfield, Illinois. She reported that with the exercise, several challenges were identified such as communication between states and the movement of animals in transit. A communications protocol was developed and approved by the Communications Officers of the State Departments of Agriculture (COSDA) at its annual meeting in September. Bill Callison, president, National Plant Board (NPB), provided a report on the activities and issues of NPB. Funding issues to ensure the capabilities in providing early detection and response for plant pests and diseases continue to be a priority. The committee agreed to four action items presented by the NPB. They are (1) send a letter to USDA requesting APHIS to review the current PVY(N) management plan, promulgate regulations making participation in the plan mandatory, and work with the Agricultural Research Service in developing improved diagnostic testing protocols; (2) send a letter requesting that APHIS implement a program to prevent the introduction of Ralstonia solanacearum race 3 biovar 2 in the U.S.; (3) express support for appropriations on forest pests and the National Fire Plan; and (4) send a letter to USDA urging increased federal and cooperative state pest detection capabilities and to establish a special fund dedicated to emergency response to new pest outbreaks and requesting emergency regulatory measures to prevent the spread of emerald ash borer. Dr. Mack Lea, president, U.S. Animal Health Association (USAHA) and Louisiana State Veterinarian, provided a report on the latest issues concerning animal health. He covered issues such as the Animal Safeguarding report and its implementation by APHIS, homeland security and potential impact on Plum Island and its capacity, and support for the expansion and improvements at the Ames laboratories. The last report to the committee was presented by Glenn Slack, executive director and chief executive officer of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA). He provided a detailed report on the process of establishing a National Animal Identification Plan. The timetable includes a presentation of a draft document to the USAHA Committee on Livestock Identification this month. In November, revisions will be included in the draft with a final draft developed by the end of December. Industry review and a comment period would occur from January 2003 through March. In April 2003, the NIAA will consider the plan at its national meeting. The ambitious timeline is prompted by USDA's prediction that within three to four years, there will be a crisis in livestock identification if nothing is done. During the meeting, the committee considered several policy amendments and discussed several action items. The committee discussed a proposed memorandum of understanding on an Animal Disease Emergency Communication Plan presented by the COSDA. The committee recommended that the Executive Board seek input from USDA, the NPB, and the USAHA on a national model and present information at the midyear meeting for consideration by NASDA membership. The committee also requested that APHIS distribute the revised Chronic Wasting Disease Program Plan to all states for review and input to ensure that the states' perspective is provided to APHIS. In addition, the committee directed NASDA staff to update the "Animal Health Protection and Disease Control" policy statement to reflect recent activities in animal safeguarding, biosecurity, technology and research. The update would be considered at the midyear meeting. A working group will be established by the chairman to gather and provide input to APHIS on the essential functions of a cooperative effort that would be established between NASDA and APHIS. The following states volunteered to be participants: Arizona, Vermont, Florida, Missouri, Idaho, North Carolina, Louisiana, Wisconsin, Kentucky, and West Virginia. (Contact: Jennifer Yezak Molen) COMMITTEE ADDRESSES FOOD SAFETY AND SECURITY NASDA's Food Regulation and Nutrition Committee tackled a full agenda during last week's annual meeting and received reports from administration officials about food safety and security efforts. Committee Chairman Nathan Rudgers, commissioner of the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets, has been leading NASDA's efforts to develop recommendations for a framework for an integrated food safety system. Committee members began reviewing these issues during a conference call meeting held on August 16, 2002 and identified the need to update NASDA policy statements in three key areas: (1) risk analysis food safety and security; (2) imported food; and (3) coordination and cooperation in the structure of a seamless food safety system. During the annual meeting, the committee heard a food industry perspective on risk analysis and food safety and security. USDA's Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) briefed the committee on how the agency is regulating imported food. Officials from the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN), discussed the agency's priorities and activities on food safety. Committee members approved updated policy statements related to food safety and security regulation. In coming weeks, the committee will continue work to promote enhanced coordination and collaboration between federal, state, and local stakeholders, and a Food Safety Quality Assurance block grant program. (Contact: Charlie Ingram) MARKETING AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMITTEE DISCUSSES TRADE ISSUES DURING ANNUAL MEETING Arizona Agriculture Director Sheldon R. Jones, chairman of the Marketing and International Trade Committee, led discussions on trade, country of origin labeling, and sanitary and phytosanitary issues during the recent committee meeting. A. Ellen Terpstra, administrator, Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), provided a report on the time frame for trade discussions and negotiations and informed the committee that trade agreements with Chile and Singapore could be finalized later this month and that Central America agreements could take place early next year. In regards to Central America, informal discussions are underway in regards to trade capacity building, regulatory systems, and technical matters. A major meeting regarding the World Trade Organization (WTO) is scheduled for November 18 in Geneva. She provided information on the inaugural meeting of the Consultative Committee on Agriculture (CCA) for the U.S. and Mexico and will look to NASDA for suggested agenda items for the next CCA meeting. Bob Schramm, representing Western Growers Association and other industry organizations, provided the industry's perspective on trade negotiations and upcoming meetings that could impact details of trade agreements. He raised the concern that the WTO process could dictate agricultural policy and is that what the industry wants. The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is holding public hearings during the month October and they are opportunities for states and agricultural groups to provide input. Barry Carpenter, deputy administrator, Livestock and Seed Program, Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), provided the committee a thorough report on the implementation of the country of origin labeling law as set forth in the 2002 farm bill. Voluntary guidelines were issued this past week and can be located at http://www.ams.usda.gov/cool/. He provided an overview of how the mandatory labeling program will be developed and the various issues under consideration such as international trade, verification claims, and state and regional labeling programs. The mandatory program is scheduled to be in operation by September 30, 2004. Bobby Acord, administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), and John Greifer, director, APHIS Trade Support Staff, provided an overview of APHIS and its role in international trade. APHIS' charge is to maintain and expand trade while ensuring a scientifically sound and consistent trade policy. In June through August, APHIS intervened to save $5.9 million in U.S. agricultural shipments. In FY01, APHIS resolved sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) barriers representing $760 million in U.S. agricultural sales. Montana Agriculture Director Ralph Peck provided a report on the activities of the U.S./Canada Working Group, including its 2002-2003 work plan. Issues that are being addressed are animal health issues, agricultural biotechnology, seed lab certification, pesticide harmonization, country of origin labeling, nursery stock, and apples. He reported that on July 25, the working group met in Chicago to discuss the country of origin labeling law in the 2002 farm bill. Nebraska Agriculture Director Merlyn Carlson provided a report on the activities of the U.S./Mexico Working Group, including its 2002-2003 work plan. Issues being addressed by the Working Group are farm labor issues, the establishment of CCA advisory group, electronic data systems for border crossings for meat, agricultural biotechnology, animal health issues, potato trade, organic foods and country of origin labeling. He reported that on July 23, the working group met in Chicago to discuss farm labor issues. During the committee meeting, it was announced that Texas Commissioner Susan Combs is the new chair of the U.S./Mexico Working Group. Members were encouraged to communicate with Commissioner Combs about serving on the working group. Director Carlson also announced that the next Tri-National Accord meeting is April 2 to 4, 2003, in Montreal, Canada. Additional information will be available on NASDA website. The committee also considered several policy amendments and approved actions for the midyear meeting. In lieu of a proposed policy amendment regarding voluntary price reporting of cattle offered by Missouri Director Lowell Mohler, the committee recommended that a letter be sent to USDA about voluntary price reporting for livestock and encourage additional projects such as the pilot project conducted in Texas on slaughter cattle. The committee agreed to have a presentation on the Jones Act and its impact on agricultural trade and marketing at the midyear meeting. Between now and the midyear meeting, NASDA will monitor trade agreement development, the WTO process and sanitary and phytosanitary issues and will provide input when it is in the interest of agriculture. (Contact: Jennifer Yezak Molen) NASDA COMMITTEE PLANS WORK ON ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES NASDA's Natural Resources & Environment Committee met with officials from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to discuss issues affecting agriculture during NASDA's annual meeting last week. The committee, which is chaired by New Mexico Department of Agriculture Secretary/Director Frank DuBois, is also exploring the need to establish new task forces to address agricultural air quality and endangered species issues. During the October 7 session, Jean-Mari Peltier, agricultural counselor to the EPA Administrator, encouraged NASDA members to get more involved on important, emerging air quality issues. Specific issues that are already impacting states, producers and farm operations include air quality controls on farms and animal feeding operations, agricultural burning, odor, and smoke. Peltier invited NASDA to participate in upcoming federal task forces, workshops, and meetings that will address agricultural air quality policies. The committee will explore the need to establish a NASDA task force to address agricultural air issues. Committee members also discussed implementation of conservation programs in the 2002 Farm Bill. They plan to provide early input and seek meetings with appropriate USDA officials on the new Partnership and Cooperation Program, and Innovative Grants Program. Both programs include NASDA concepts for an Agricultural Stewardship Program of block grants to states. (Contact: Charlie Ingram) PESTICIDE COMMITTEE PLANS ACTIVE AGENDA NASDA's Pesticide Regulation Committee will undertake work on a variety of issues over the coming weeks including pesticide spray drift regulations, endangered species, Section 18 emergency exemptions, and state pesticide computer programs. The committee is chaired by Georgia Department of Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin. The committee plans to work with NASDA's affiliate organization, the Association of American Pesticide Control Officials (AAPCO), to seek adequate federal funding for state pesticide programs. AAPCO President Marvin Lawson addressed the committee and outlined state funding program needs. He noted that total EPA funding has declined while state program work has expanded in a number of areas, including Worker Protection Standards, groundwater management plans, inspection training, endangered species programs, and laboratory improvements. Anne Lindsay, EPA Office of Pesticides, informed the committee that EPA will soon announce a pilot project which addresses a narrow set of NASDA recommendations on Section 18 reform, specifically time periods for Sec. 18 decisions, reduced risk pesticides, and operational guidance. Lindsay also announced that EPA is exploring program improvements for pesticide applicator program certification and training and is developing a pilot project on applicator exams. The agency is actively seeking state participation in the pilot project. Some of NASDA' s work in coming weeks will include (1) providing comments and participating in EPA's upcoming workshops on an Endangered Species Program; (2) preparing comments and meeting with EPA officials on pesticide spray drift regulations; (3) surveying states and compile information on pesticide computer programs in the states. (Contact: Charlie Ingram) RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND FINANCIAL SECURITY COMMITTEE CONSIDERS CRITICAL ISSUES North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson, chairman of the Rural Development and Financial Security Committee, led discussions that included the implementation of the 2002 farm bill, the final regulations of the U.S. Grain Warehouse Act of 2000 (see separate story), farm labor issues, crop insurance reform and rural development issues. Deputy Under Secretary Michael E. Neruda, deputy under secretary for Rural Development at USDA provided a report on rural development programs. The 2002 farm bill was significant for rural development since it provided $1.2 billion in budget authority. Over the life of the farm bill this could mean that $3 to $5 billion could be available for the needs of rural development. Among the farm bill highlights: the Value-Added Grant Program was made permanent, the Historic Barn Project was authorized, and in the water program that provides grants and loans to rural communities, USDA was able to reduce a back log of proposals with authorizations in the farm bill. USDA recently announced $700 million for communities across the country. When the committee turned its attention to farm labor issues, Jim Holt, consultant to the National Council of Agricultural Employers presented an overview of the demographics of farm labor in the United States and a summary of the key policy issues that arise in connection with migrant labor, such as security issues. He explained the status of the H2A visa program and proposals for the adjustment of status of current farm sector migrant workers. Joe Davis, president, AgriLogic, Inc. provided an overview of insurance product development and risk management programs that are being developed or considered by USDA. He pointed out that base acres and program yields are an important issue and that a calculator has been developed to assist farmers in making determinations for the farm program. More than a dozen feasibility studies for new risk management tools to cover potentially more than 50 commodities have been authorized by the Risk Management Agency. To assist in answering the many questions about farm bill implementation, Kentucky State Executive Director Jeff Hall, Farm Service Agency, reported to the committee about the phases of implementation. He informed the committee that state and national office personnel have undergone training and preparation for the various signups that have been designated during the five months since the farm bill was signed. He also discussed base acres and program yields and how this is one opportunity to set formula for the next seven years and one that has not happened since 1985. A letter from USDA to producers should be mailed this week to cover signup options. He reported that dairy signup was underway and that payments could possibly be made by mid-October. The committee also heard from Donald West, national program leader, Farm Business Management, Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service (CSREES), on the risk management education (RME) program conducted by the land grant university system and the private sector through CSREES. He discussed the major dimensions of the RME program including the establishment of four regional RME centers and that the emphasis is to delivery program through regional and state projects. Centers are located at the University of Delaware, Texas A&M University, University of Nebraska, and Washington State University. During the meeting, the committee reviewed a letter signed by 34 agricultural organizations urging cosponsorship of H.R. 5383, the "Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2002," which provides emergency assistance for agriculture producers who have suffered crop and livestock production losses as a result of natural disasters during the 2001 and 2002 production years. H.R. 5383 is the companion legislation to the Senate amendment passed by a vote of 79 to 16 on September 10. The committee approved a motion that NASDA would join the 34 agricultural organizations in supporting H.R. 5383. In related action, the committee will initiate an effort (offered by South Dakota Agriculture Secretary Larry Gabriel) to develop principles and criteria on how best to handle agricultural disaster assistance for agricultural producers faced by natural disasters including drought, flooding, and pests and disease aggravated by natural disasters. Principles would be based on equity, fairness, and would address real needs on a regional basis. Disaster programs should be designed so as not to undermine crop insurance. (Contact: Jennifer Yezak Molen) DOUGLASS HONORED FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO AGRICULTURE Gus Douglass, commissioner of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, was honored by NASDA with a special award for his work in safeguarding America's animal and plant industries. The award was presented by Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Billy Ray Smith during the President's Banquet at NASDA's annual meeting held in Lexington, Kentucky, last week. Douglass has been chair of NASDA's Animal and Plant Industries Committee since 1995, leading the committee in policy development and implementation. He chaired the Animal Health Safeguarding Review, a review of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services' Veterinary Services conducted by NASDA's Research Foundation. He has served as president of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) and the Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture (SASDA). Douglass has served twice as president of the Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA). Douglass recently was elected chairman of USDA's Foreign Animal and Poultry Diseases Advisory Committee, a distinguished group of academics, veterinary professionals, and other leaders in livestock and poultry health. He is now serving an unprecedented fourth term. Commissioner Douglass was first elected West Virginia commissioner of agriculture in 1964. Now in his ninth term in office, he is the longest serving agriculture commissioner in the country. He also served as assistant commissioner and owned a farm equipment and motor truck dealership for a number of years. He and his son, Tom, currently operate the family's 400-acre cattle farm in Mason County. He and his wife, Anna Lee, have four children and six grandchildren. (Contact: Rick Kirchhoff) NASDA HONOR AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED Terry L. Rhodes and Williard A. Dickerson have been chosen as the 2002 NASDA Honor Award winners. Rhodes has received the award for achievement in administration and Dickerson, the James A. Graham Award for service to agriculture. Both received their awards at a special ceremony during NASDA's annual meeting in Lexington, Kentucky, on October 8. Rhodes is assistant commissioner and chief of staff of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DOACS). She directs the daily operations of the department and is responsible for setting major policy directions (legislative and administrative), oversees the development of agency strategic priorities, goals, and objectives and provides direction and guidance within which all administrative guidelines for all operating divisions are prepared and enforced. In 1992, Rhodes helped direct the reorganization of the DOACS which established three deputy commissioners and aligned the department's divisions along functional lines; established a revenue reporting system that revised the tracking, estimating, and reporting of the department's revenue; established a highly respected training and development program; established the Information Technology Resource Planning Council that she now chairs; and has organized administrative services to provide optimum support to all DOACS employees. Rhodes started with the department in 1988 and was appointed Florida's first woman commissioner of agriculture by Gov. Jeb Bush. Williard Dickerson is the director of the Plant Industry Division of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Dickerson has served leading roles with the National Plant Board, the Southern Plant Board, the Entomological Society of America, the Southeastern Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation, Inc., and was an active member of the Safeguarding American Plant Resources, a review sponsored by Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services' Plant Protection and Quarantine of the safeguarding system that protects America from invasive species. For over 25 years, he served as research entomologist for USDA, Agricultural Research Service at laboratories in Oxford, North Carolina, Columbia, Missouri, Quincy, Florida, and Raleigh, North Carolina. He has extensive research and applied experience in area-wide pest management and eradication programs, pheromone trap development, and biological control. From 1977 to 1987, he provided research support for the Boll Weevil Eradication Program in North Carolina. NASDA has presented two awards annually to employees of state departments of agriculture as recognition for their work in supporting the administrative operations of the department or in service to producers. Nominations for the awards are accepted each July from commissioners, directors, and secretaries of the state departments of agriculture and from the 22 organizations affiliated with NASDA. The nominees are evaluated by a three-judge panel of individuals who are not associated with NASDA but who work in the agricultural industry and are familiar with the operations and activities of state agriculture departments. (Contact: Rick Kirchhoff) NASATO BECOMES NEWEST NASDA AFFILIATE NASDA's Board of Directors has approved the National Association of State Agriculture Technology Officials' request to become a NASDA affiliate. There are now 22 national organizations affiliated with NASDA. They are made up of persons of similar responsibilities with the state departments of agriculture and other agencies of state government. NASATO was formed to provide a dynamic organization for the exchange of technology information as it relates to each state department of agriculture. The organization is designed to consist of the lead technology officials in each state's organization. Security issues relating to data exchange, public access to information, mobile field solutions, Internet and web solutions are only some of the issues NASATO members will discuss in the coming months. NASATO will provide a clearinghouse for technology issues that will serve to advise NASDA and its affiliates in the technology arena. NASATO held its first meeting in conjunction with NASDA's annual meeting in Lexington, Kentucky, last week. During the meeting, NASATO members set a framework for a working organization including approval of bylaws and the election of officers. Additional information is available on NASATO's website at http://www.nasato.org. (Contact: Rick Kirchhoff) STATE NEWS HEARINGS SET FOR WISCONSIN'S PLANT INSPECTION RULE AND FEES Landscape businesses and plant nurseries are asked to comment on proposed changes to Wisconsin's plant inspection rules to prevent the introduction of a potentially destructive plant pest. Changes are also proposed to fees for plant inspection and plant health certificates. The changes to ATCP 21 - Plant Inspection and Pest Control, are needed to keep the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, a tiny aphid-like creature that can harm hemlock trees, out of Wisconsin. The proposed fee changes within the rule to equalize inspection and certification charges throughout the state. Under the rule proposal, anyone bringing in hemlock nursery stock or seedlings into Wisconsin from infested areas must have a phytosanitary certificate that certifies the shipment as free of HWA. The same applies to hemlock logs, bark mulch, and wood chips if they are coming from an infested area. Hemlock logs may be brought in by lumber mills, log home builders or pulp manufacturers. Landscapers may import bark mulch or wood chips. "The Hemlock Woolly Adelgid pierces the base of the tree's needle and sucks out the sap. The needles turn yellow and fall off," explained Bob Dahl, plant specialist with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. "The needles will re-grow but there are fewer needles each year that the insect is present and eventually the tree will die." The insect is not in Wisconsin but is found in Ohio, Michigan and other eastern and western states. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, hemlocks make up about four percent of our wild conifer population. "Hemlocks provide critical habitat for many breeding birds and other wildlife including rare and endangered species," Dahl explained. Hemlock is also an important plant to landscapers and the nursery industry. "There are over 270 varieties of cultivated hemlock, a widely planted ornamental tree. HWA will infest hemlocks whether they're in a forest or in someone's yard. We're fortunate not to have this pest in Wisconsin and we want to keep it that way," Dahl said. Plant health and phytosanitary certificates assure that plants and plant products such as Christmas trees, nursery stock, seed, grain, potatoes, or cranberries are free of regulated pests when shipped to certain states or countries. The rule proposed to increase fees from $15 to $50 per certificate. However, the inspection charges would be eliminated. The inspection charges could include mileage, meals, lodging, and a $20 per hour inspection charge. "With the current system, businesses outside of Madison, particularly in northern Wisconsin, are paying much more than growers in and around Dane County. You should not be penalized because of your location," Dahl said. There is no change in ginseng certificate fees. Two hearings are scheduled for October 29 and 30. Written comments will be accepted until Mon. Dec. 2. Send comments to Bob Dahl, Plant Industry Bureau, DATCP, P.O. Box 8911, Madison WI 53708-8911 or fax to 608-224-4656 or send an e-mail to robert.dahl@datcp.state.wi.us. Contact Mr. Dahl at 608-224-4573 for a copy of the proposed rule or find it on http://datcp.state.wi.us/arm/regulation/prop-rules/atcp_21.html. (Contact: Jane Larson, 608/224-5005) POULTRY PRODUCERS, BIRD OWNERS ASKED TO MONITOR FOR DISEASE Nebraska's state veterinarian is urging poultry, fowl, and game bird owners to watch for signs of illness in their flocks, following confirmation of a highly contagious bird disease in California earlier this month. Exotic Newcastle Disease (END), a highly contagious virus among birds, was confirmed on October 1, near Los Angeles, California. While END poses no threat to human health, some strains of the virus can kill nearly 100 percent of affected birds. "I am encouraging producers to keep a watchful eye on their poultry," said Dr. Larry Williams, Nebraska State Veterinarian. "We depend on the partnership of our producers, veterinarians, and the public in keeping our livestock and poultry free of disease." In late September, nearly 200 game birds died on a premise near Los Angeles. The National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, confirmed the Exotic Newcastle Disease diagnosis. As of October 3, six California flocks have been depopulated, however none of the affected premises were near commercial poultry operations. Because a wide variety of pets and wild birds can carry the disease, producers and owners are encouraged to watch for these signs: * Birds that gasp and cough * Birds that exhibit central nervous system disorders, such as circling, depression, paralysis, drooping wings, or dragging legs * Birds that produce fewer eggs * Birds with greenish diarrhea * Birds that develop swelling of tissues around the eyes and neck * Unusually high death losses in the flock Dr. Williams said laboratory testing is needed to confirm a clinical diagnosis of Exotic Newcastle Disease, as signs mimic those of other poultry diseases. Poultry producers and bird owners who recognize the symptoms in their flocks are encouraged to call the Nebraska Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Animal Industry at 402/471-2351 or Dr. Ebako at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at 402/472-1434. (Contact: Sara Olson, 402/471-4876) JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: ASSISTANT DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR ANIMAL HEALTH PROGRAMS The Texas Animal Health Commission is seeking to fill a newly created position, assistant deputy director for Animal Health Programs (AHP). The assistant deputy director for Animal Health Programs (AHP) reports to the deputy director for AHP and is responsible for assisting in the management of the agency's field operations, including oversight and support of area offices and the Program Records Department. Minimum qualifications are a Doctorate degree in Veterinary Medicine from an accredited college or university; Masters Degree in related field desirable. Texas veterinary license preferred. Minimum four years broad management experience in administration of regulatory activities or programs. Experience in working with traditional and non-traditional livestock and poultry preferred. Applicant must have demonstrated skill in planning and directing animal health and regulatory program operations of an organization. Some knowledge of foreign animal diseases and experience with emergency management desirable. Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relations with agency staff, associates, producers, industry groups, and related entities. Must have effective written and oral communication skills and skills in use of personal computer. Ability to plan, organize, coordinate, review, and evaluate the overall animal health program operations of the agency; to supervise professional and paraprofessional staff; to analyze and solve problems in both short and long term situations; to address an audience effectively; to exercise sound judgment in assessing situations and make sound decisions; to understand, interpret, and explain regulations; to develop and enforce agency animal health policies and procedures; to be on call and travel as needed. To apply, call 1-800-550-8242 for a State of Texas Application for Employment, or write to P.O. Box 12966, Austin, Texas 78711-2966, or visit http://www.tahc.state.tx.us. Refer to job posting # 02-23 on applications and any correspondence concerning this position. |
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