TheAGR

ICU

LTU

RE Q

UA

RTER

LY

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Spring 2018, Issue 409 WWW.OREGON.GOV/ODA

Ore

gon

Dep

artm

ent o

f Agr

icul

ture

635

Cap

itol S

treet

NE

Sale

m, O

R 9

7301

-253

2PE

RIO

DIC

ALS

POST

AG

E PA

IDAT

SALE

M, O

R

Director Taylor: 365 days, 36 counties

IN THIS ISSUE

Director Taylor: 365 days, 36 counties—1

Director’s column: Alexis Taylor—2

Board of Ag profile: On the road—2

Raising a toast to Oregon-Japan collabo brews—4

More buzz about the Oregon Bee Project—4

Citizens’ liaison gives Oregonians a personal point of contact—5

A spring reminder about homeowners using pesticides—5

Pokarney ponderings: 27 wondrous years—6

Noxious weed control grants awarded to worthy projects—6

Bon voyage, Ray Jaindl —7

New directors for natural resources and communications—8

Announcements—8

Taylor achieved her goal of stepping foot in each Oregon county within her first year —talking, listening, observing, and learning as well as appreciating the people and places that are woven into the fabric of Oregon agriculture.

“President Eisenhower has a quote that is framed in my office,” says Taylor. “It reads, ‘Farming looks mighty easy when your plow is a pencil and you are a thousand miles away from a corn field.’ This was my opportunity to not be a thousand miles from a corn field, or a cattle ranch, or a pear orchard, or any number of the diverse types of farm and ranch operations we have in Oregon.”

Even before taking the job as ODA Director, Taylor was aware of Oregon’s diversity. But she wanted to see it first hand and make connections with the people who are farming and ranching in communities spread across the state. She wanted to learn about the challenges and opportunities they face. She wanted to see how a state government agency can help. There was great value in leaving Salem from time to time and meet folks on their own turf.

“Being new to the department and to the role of director, I knew not everyone was going to travel to Salem to meet me, nor should they,” says Taylor. “This was my opportunity to learn from farmers and ranchers and build a resource that I can call upon as issues arise—have those real-life connections I can rely on when there are questions. I want them to know I will be that advocate for them here in Salem.”

And so, within days of her official arrival to Oregon, Director Taylor set out to take a year-long tour of the state’s agriculture—one county at a time.

From east to west, north to southTouring Willamette Valley counties did not create a time or logistics challenge. Taylor was easily able to periodically visit people and places within an hour’s drive of the State Capitol. Those planned meetings more distant would come later in the year when Oregon warmed up along with farming activity. But mother nature and crisis prompted the first official county visit—to Malheur in February 2017, where winter storms produced incredible damage. More than 100 agricultural buildings collapsed due to more than 40 inches of heavy snow, including onion storages and packing sheds. Damage was estimated at more than $100 million and about 80 million pounds of onions lost.

Director Taylor joined Governor Brown on a tour of the damage. Onion grower Paul Skeen of Nyssa was among those grateful for the visit.

“The Director had just started on the job, and came over and showed she cared,” says Skeen. “We took her and the Governor around by

365 days, 36 counties: continued on page 3

By Bruce Pokarney

There are 99 counties in Iowa, the state where Oregon Department of Agriculture Director Alexis Taylor grew up on a 159-year old family farm. So maybe the prospect of visiting all 36 Oregon counties in her first year at ODA didn’t seem as daunting. But none of those Iowa counties come close in size to Malheur, Harney, or most others located in Oregon. It is also likely that the agricultural production, topography, and issues of Oregon’s 36 are much more diverse. Nonetheless, by the middle of January 2018, Director Director Taylor with cattle rancher Cory Carman of Wallowa County.

2

Board of Ag profile: On the roadThe State Board of Agriculture meets four times a year, often in locations around the state. One event always keeps the meetings in Salem—a session of the Oregon Legislature. In even numbered years, that session is relatively short, approximately 35 days. However, that doesn’t diminish the value of board members scheduling meetings with key lawmakers at the State Capitol during those times the legislature is in town.

In February, once again, board members teamed up with ODA staff to pay a visit to selected legislators, establishing a dialogue between the agriculture industry and those elected officials who make decisions. By all accounts, this year’s meetings at the Capitol went well, as board members focused on a handful of priority issues:

• Board newsletter instead of report—For the past several biennia, the Board of Agriculture has produced a report on the industry that highlights key issues over the previous two years. This report to the Governor and State Legislature is mandated. The board is now providing quarterly reports

electronically, which allows for more timely information in a format that is more readable and usable. The biennial report will still be provided, but the emailed quarterly reports provide a timely snapshot.

• Cannabis—The board sent a letter last year to the Governor and legislators expressing concerns about ODA’s ability to continue fulfilling its responsibilities to deliver service in cannabis programs while still providing timely, quality service to the entire agricultural community and citizens of Oregon. The board believes additional resources are needed as part of the next ODA budget.

• Pesticide Analytical and Response Center (PARC)—The board wants legislators to be aware of PARC and its importance so they and their constituents can access it regarding pesticide exposure issues. Also, thanks to legislative support and funding, ODA employs a citizen advocate and liaison who is available to assist concerned Oregonians directly. This position provides added value and services to ODA and Oregonians.

• ODA 2019 budget and the Marketing Program—It’s not too early for legislators to begin thinking about agency budgets in the next biennium. The board is specifically

looking to support ODA’s Marketing Program, which has taken cuts in the recent past that impact the ability to help Oregon food and agriculture businesses sell their products. While the Marketing Program may be viewed as the “easiest” ODA program to cut, these are long-term investments vital to the long-term farming and ranching in the state. This is a program that clearly provides direct assistance to Oregon’s ag economy, which supports the Governor’s initiative on jobs and the economy.

Individual Board of Agriculture members found the afternoon at the Capitol to be productive.

“The legislators we met with were very appreciative of us being there,” says Stephanie Hallock, public member from Lake Oswego. “We reminded them about the importance and value of agriculture in our state. All four lawmakers we spoke to are very aware of ag and are supportive. I also reminded them that, in addition to promoting agriculture, ODA has a regulatory role, and asked them to be supportive of that as well.”

In addition to planting seeds for the next session, which will include decisions on ODA’s biennial budget, Hallock was struck by the parade of people coming and going from the legislators’ office.

“They have a lot of issues to deal

with and all of them were gracious with their time. They listened and asked good questions.”

Bryan Harper, a hazelnut grower from Junction City, is just in his second year as a board member, and recalls what it was like a year ago when the experience of meeting with legislators was new to him.

“I thought they were all positive visits,” says Harper. “I was more comfortable this year and knew ahead of time what to talk about. I think it’s helpful for us to be communicating with legislators about what’s important to us, what we’ve been seeing in the industry the past 12 months since we last visited. It’s also good to look ahead. We didn’t bring up any current crises, but wanted to lead the conversation about what’s ahead and helping to plant that seed.”

Having a chance to visit with legislators face-to-face is always one of the most important agenda items for any Board of Agriculture meeting held in Salem. •

Director’s column: Alexis TaylorSpring is a great time of year, especially in farm and ranch country. A new planting of crops or a new generation of farm animals gives the season hope and great promise. Spring is also when National Agriculture Week is celebrated in Oregon and across the US. Traditionally, this seven-day observance encourages every American to understand how food and fiber products are produced; appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products; value agriculture’s contribution to a strong economy; and consider career opportunities in agriculture.

National Ag Week 2018 has come and gone but I think we should keep celebrating year around. In considering key messages or themes for this year’s special week, we, at ODA, identified seven adjectives to describe Oregon agriculture—seven words for seven days. But those attributes can be appreciated every day, every week, and every month for the balance of the year.

Oregon agriculture is diverse. When people ask me why I wanted to work with Oregon agriculture and at ODA, one of the first things that comes to mind is the diversity of the state’s agriculture. Oregon has over 225 different types of crops and livestock. That’s really exciting.

There is also diversity in who is growing our food and fiber. Nearly 40 percent of our farmers and ranchers are women—one of the highest percentages in the country. We also have a lot of regional diversity of what grows where in Oregon, which is very cool. Oregon producers represent a diversity of successful operations. That helps keep the industry resilient. Big or small, organic or conventional or biotech, growing for local, domestic, or export markets, Oregon is hope to all types of agriculture.

Oregon agriculture is thriving. Agriculture is the second largest economic sector in the state and a real backbone to Oregon’s economy. It is farming, ranching, and fishing, but it’s also a lot of food manufacturing as well. The largest food manufacturing county in the state is Multnomah, which goes to show that agriculture thrives even in the most urban of our counties. People living in the metro areas are also tied to agriculture and its jobs. Production value of Oregon agriculture is more than $5 billion. Value-added processing contributes another $2 billion in additional revenue to the state’s economy. It’s estimated that about 15 percent of Oregon’s gross state product- nearly $29 billion in economic activity- is connected to agriculture. The industry also supports more than 326,000 jobs. About one of eight Oregonians are employed in an occupation related to agriculture.

Oregon agriculture is authentic. One of the attributes we are known

for in Oregon, in other states, and around the world is that our farmers and ranchers produce high-quality, safe food and agricultural products that consumers demand. Sometimes we take that for granted because all this bounty is in our backyard. But I can tell you, as I travel, people are excited about Oregon products. They know Oregon products are consistently high quality. That authenticity is on display locally at farmers’ markets, CSAs, grocery stores, and restaurants. Consumers can many times meet the people who grow the food. Oregon quality products head to other states as well and make their way to international markets that often pay a high premium for Oregon products.

Oregon agriculture is universal. The one great thing about agriculture is that everyone eats. Nothing is more personal than food and nothing is more universal than food. It’s what we provide to ourselves and our families. Since we all eat, we all make choices every day with the ability to support local agriculture. All Oregonians want safe, abundant, and affordable food. Oregon agriculture is able to provide those products. In addition, farmers, ranchers, and fishers share the values of all Oregonians in sustaining natural resources by taking care of the land, air, and water. Oregon agriculture is both urban and rural- making it universal throughout the state.

Oregon agriculture is innovative. The use of new technologies and the interest in trying new things is really

exciting. We see it on dairy farms using robots to milk. We see it with precision agriculture or the use of drones in farming. Oregon is on the cutting edge of some of these new technologies. There is also innovation in the food sector in developing craft beers and cider, and the willingness to try planting crops that may be new to Oregon.

Oregon agriculture is boundless. Yes, we need farmers and ranchers, we need people to grow our food. But the opportunities to work in agriculture go far beyond that. We need scientists, journalists, policy makers, logistics specialists, and those who work in marketing and advertising. There are a lot of really cool and exciting opportunities for all kinds of young people who are looking at careers.

Oregon agriculture is celebratory. One week a year, we like to amplify and highlight agriculture by really pushing the message of all the contributions it brings to the state. But really, Oregonians can push that message all throughout the year with their pocketbook. I like to say, if you like to eat, thank a farmer. Share the Oregon agricultural experience. Go to a U-pick farm this summer. Plant your own garden. Prepare a great tasting meal featuring Oregon products. There are so many options to celebrate Oregon agriculture this coming week and for the rest of 2018. •

Board of Agriculture members Stephanie Hallock and Pete Brentano meet with State Rep. Susan McLain (D-Hillsboro).

3

helicopter to see the damage. It was tragic, it still is. Some buildings have not been repaired a year later. But the fact that Alexis came over, the fact that she continues to be concerned, the fact that she was willing to get up to speed, I was impressed.”

Taylor would make a second visit to Malheur County in the summer—holding a town hall meeting in Ontario, touring a feedlot, visiting a riparian zone restoration project, and learning about innovative off-stream water systems.

Once the weather warmed up in the spring, so did the tour agenda. Director Taylor saw various farming operations in the increasingly urban Washington County and heard from growers the importance of maintaining land use laws to protect agriculture.

Down the Willamette Valley, the director’s tour made its way to Lane County and a visit to hazelnut orchards as well as Springfield Creamery. Benton County farm tours coincided with a keynote address by Taylor to the Oregon State University Agricultural Executive Council and visiting FFA students during “Ag Days”.

Another Willamette Valley stop was to Yamhill County as part of a forage and cover crop tour and a guest speaker engagement at the Yamhill Soil and Water Conservation District annual dinner. But in between valley stops, Taylor traveled to the southern part of the state to meet with the Lake County Umbrella Watershed Council. Over a decade ago, it was one of the lower-ranked watershed districts in the state but now is ranked near the top, bringing on partners and funds for projects.

“These projects have not only improved the watersheds in Lake County, but have also provided jobs in a county that usually has one of Oregon’s highest unemployment rates,” says Taylor.

The Lake County tour also included an unexpected stop to see farm to school activity in rural Oregon. Taylor joined a representative of the national FoodCorps program, local county and school district officials, and others on a tour of Union Elementary—the site of Lake County’s first school garden.

After Memorial Day, Director Taylor made her way to Eastern Oregon with a stop at the wheat

ranch of Board of Agriculture member Tyson Raymond, who helped show the role of federal conservation programs and their widespread implementation in the region.

“Just having the opportunity for the new director to come to our part of the state and see the ag practices employed by growers in our region was most valuable,” says Raymond. “My only expectation was that she come with an open mind and willingness to learn something new. She absolutely did that.”

From a wheat ranch in Umatilla County to a cattle ranch in Baker County, Taylor next met up with Curtis Martin, one of the leaders of Oregon’s cattle industry. That part of the tour encompassed Union County.

“Alexis is a very keen listener who gives full attention to the subject,” says Martin. “As an example, the first day was spent on focusing on irrigation in the Baker Valley. Although Alexis was not familiar with irrigation or the water code of Oregon, she really keyed into understanding the basics. The questions she asked were absolutely relevant. It was very apparent she was intent on gaining a better understanding. I sincerely appreciated that important interest in the dry climate of eastern Oregon.”

While in the Columbia Basin, Director Taylor went from land to water. A boat trip into the Columbia River with the US Army Corps of Engineers and Mark Porter of ODA’s Noxious Weed Control Program focused on a potentially serious invasive aquatic weed—flowering rush.

“Having Alexis out here was great so she could get an idea of the scope, scale, and purpose of our weed control work,” says Porter.

Late June took ODA’s director to Wasco County to look at local conservation projects, weed management, and irrigation

technology. In July, Taylor traveled to the Oregon coast to learn more about the seafood industry in Clatsop County. In August, amid fields of golden wheat, the tour centered on north central and northeast Oregon counties. In Sherman County, Taylor saw the interface between dryland wheat production and wind farms.

During that week in mid-August, Taylor saw six counties in six days—Sherman, Gilliam, Morrow, Wallowa, Grant, and Wheeler. Along the way, she spent time with two noteworthy cattlewomen—Cory Carman in Wallowa County and Sharon Livingston in Grant County.

“It was important to me that

the director actually came to Long Creek,” says Livingston. “Too much time is spent in offices and meetings, and not enough actually on the land. Alexis changed that. I am very appreciative that Director Taylor made the personal acquaintance of several people in our county and especially in my hometown.”

A week later in August, Taylor returned to eastern Oregon for a tour of Harney County, talking with ranchers about wildfire and water issues and speaking to an evening event organized by the county farm bureau and cattlewomen.

In September, stops included Hood River County, where the director walked through pear orchards and learned about onsite housing for laborers. She also saw innovation at Diamond Fruit Growers as optical scanners sized and sorted fruit for packing. Also, the Board of Agriculture convened in Klamath Falls—a meeting that included tours and the director.

In October, as grapes were harvested, Director Taylor met with Pat Dudley of Bethel Heights Vineyard in Polk County.

“We assumed Alexis was mainly coming out to get acquainted with the wine industry in our area,” says Dudley. “It turned out she was also interested in hearing about what we considered important issues for agriculture, which we appreciated.”

Among those issues was the Willamette Valley Oak Accord and the importance of engaging private landowners in oak habitat preservation for landscape stability in the face of climate change.

Also, in October, Taylor spent time on the south coast in Coos and Curry counties—the perfect time to witness cranberry harvest.

“I found the most valuable part of Director Taylor’s visit was the opportunity to get a real sense of what agriculture is in this area while demonstrating to those of us in ag that she has an interest in all regions of the state,” says cranberry grower Scott McKenzie. “At times, a visit from a state official at the director level is about photos and press releases. There was none of that with her visit. She came to the south coast to listen and learn.”

In December, it was southward again for Taylor with tours of Josephine, Douglas, and Jackson counties. Among other stops, the director toured Wildlife Safari—which holds a Confined Animal Feeding Operation permit with ODA—Umpqua Dairy, Rogue Creamery, and a school garden at Central Point Elementary.

Along the way in 2017, the director spent time in the counties of Columbia, Jefferson, Deschutes, Lincoln, Tillamook, Clackamas, Multnomah, Linn, and—of course—Marion, home of Salem itself.

The last county would have to wait for 2018. With less than 30 days before the official one—year anniversary of her ODA directorship, Taylor concluded her whirlwind tour with a roundtable discussion in Crook County hosted by OSU Extension.

Fait accompli. 36 counties in less than 365 days.

The big pictureLooking back, Director Taylor says there were several themes that cut across all Oregon counties.Innovation: “Whether it’s the tree fruit industry using laser optics to improve sorting and packing, the use of drones in precision agriculture, or robotic milkers in the dairy industry, all sectors of Oregon agriculture use modern technology to continue to produce a high-quality product in a more efficient way.”Water: “Farmers and ranchers value water because it is essential to produce crops and livestock, but also because of its importance to fish, wildlife, and all Oregonians.”Labor: “I heard about work force issues, around immigration challenges and what’s going on federally, and how that trickles down to Oregon. Our growers need access to labor and a skilled work force.”Urban/rural divide: “Agricultural communities voice frustration over feeling their economic contributions are not being fully recognized by urban centers.”The next generation of agriculture: “During every tour, meeting, or roundtable I attended, succession planning and challenges for young people entering agriculture came up. This was a universal topic in every part of the state, regardless of operation size, crop, or production system. The average age of Oregon farmers is getting older. Who is going to take over and continue raising that innovative, high-quality food that we are used to in Oregon?”

The wealth of information gleaned through the director’s 36-county tour has been incorporated into ODA’s five-year strategic plan. A specific example is the identification of a key objective in the plan to connect youth with the many and varied potential careers in agriculture that will need filling in the years to come.

In the meantime, Director Taylor vows to continue to spend time across the state. While it won’t be quite as grueling as visiting 36 counties, it’s just as much of a commitment.

“I will always believe it’s very important to get to every part of the state every year,” says Taylor. “While my visits in year one may have been my first time to a certain region, county, or town, it won’t be my last. People can expect to see me around the state throughout the year.” •

365 days, 36 counties: continued from page 1

Director Taylor tours a part of the Columbia River with the US Army Corps of Engineers to see the problems associated with the invasive noxious aquatic weed, flowering rush.

Board of Agriculture member and Umatilla County wheat rancher Tyson Raymond hosted Director Taylor.

Baker County cattleman Curtis Martin valued the visit of Director Taylor.

Director Taylor and Willamette Valley (near Monmouth) organic dairy operator Jon Bansen.

Director Taylor visits a seed cleaning plant owned and operated by grass seed grower Bob VanderZanden of Washington County.

Grant County cattlewoman and Board of Agriculture member Sharon Livingston gave Director Taylor a tour of her ranch.

4

More buzz about the Oregon Bee ProjectFrom the Oregon Bee Project

Growers across Oregon are recognized for their bee-friendly practices. With over 200 specialty crops grown in a state already characterized by its rich diversity of natural areas, Oregon boasts a pollinator population with approximately 500 species of bees.

In 2016, the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Insect Pest Prevention and Management program (IPPM) began developing a pilot program to support Oregon farmers protecting pollinator populations. During the early stages of the project IPPM staff set to work connecting with others in the state. In reaching out to program managers and scientists at ODA’s Pesticides Program, the Oregon State

University Extension Service, and the Oregon Department of Forestry, the agencies realized that they shared many of the same pollinator health objectives. Together, along with other leaders in industry, education, and research, the agencies launched the cooperative effort, the Oregon Bee Project, in 2017 to coordinate the development of multiple statewide initiatives for pollinator health.

One such initiative is the Oregon Bee Project Flagship Farm Program (largely funded by a USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant), which is in its second year of working with individual farmers and nursery owners on a voluntary basis to enhance pollinator habitat in Oregon.

The Flagship Farm ProgramWhen the Oregon Bee Project Flagship Farm Program was introduced at the Small Farms

Conference in Corvallis in 2017, 35 farmers immediately expressed interest in joining. It was clear through early discussions with stakeholders that there was a strong desire for programming in the state that would recognize land managers’ efforts to add pollinator habitat, and to provide resources to promote their work and enhance habitat using proven management practices.

After running the first year of the program with six Oregon farms, the Oregon Bee Project is growing the Flagship Farm Program and looking to add 29 more farms and nurseries to the list. These farms and nurseries are recognized for promoting pollinator diversity through a combination of practices. Among the practices emphasized are maintaining habitat, using Integrated Pest Management strategies, judicious use of pesticides, demonstrating good communication

Raising a toast to Oregon-Japan collabo brewsThe latest thing brewing between Oregon and its largest agricultural trade partner, Japan, is a collaboration that centers around craft brewing. Oregon has the expertise and reputation, Japan has the interest and some exciting, new ingredients. This mixture of cultures and flavors will culminate this spring with a special “collabo” beer and cider festival in Portland that craft beverage lovers can enjoy.

“Portland is very popular in Japan and lots of Japanese travel to Oregon,” says Theresa Yoshioka, one of the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s trade development managers.

“Oregon is known worldwide as the leader in craft beer and it’s also getting a strong reputation for our craft ciders. With that recognition, Japanese brewers are coming to our state to learn. They want to be inspired. They are connecting with our brewers and enjoying our beer.”

Craft beer is becoming very popular and trendy in Japan. There are some domestic brands, but the Japanese also enjoy several Oregon craft beers that do well overseas.

Many beer aficionados know that Oregon, with more than 230 companies, leads all states in the number of craft breweries. Oregon also is number one in consumption of craft beer per capita. So, a visit by Japanese brewers to the mecca of craft brewing is something everyone looks forward to.

“I’m not an expert in the history of Japanese culture, but it seems to me that Japan has always been somewhat of a dichotomy of rigid social structure with an underlying love for art, music, food, and expressing oneself,” says Tomas

Sluiter, owner of Culmination Brewing of Portland, who has been at the forefront of cross-cultural collaboration. “Recently, the younger generations of Japan are feeling more able to embrace the free and cultural side of that dichotomy and admire Portland for the wildly independent creative hub it has evolved into.”

Presently, there may be a travel imbalance with more Japanese brewers coming to Oregon than the other way around, but Sluiter is one of those who has frequently trekked to Japan to capture some of the unique ingredients that characterize a “collabo beer”.

“We created a beer with Ise Kadoya Microbrewery. They shipped us a very specific yeast that is proprietary to them. It was isolated from a tree in the Shinto shrine garden in Ise. We propped it up in a local yeast lab here and brewed a type of witbier with fresh, California-grown yuzu fruit. We call it Amaterasu after the goddess worshipped in the Shinto religion. That beer turned out fantastic, and we had it released both in Oregon and Japan.”

Another Culmination collaboration was “Kara Sakura”, a unique beer for the Japanese consumer. Rose hips and Oregon cherries were added to a kettle sour base. Other collabo brews have

been developed by Culmination and other local microbreweries—some of those beers have been one-and-done, others have gone into wider production.

On Saturday, April 21 at Culmination Brewing in Portland, craft beer lovers will have a chance to enjoy the Fuji to Hood Collabo Beer and Cider Festival. This one-of-a-kind event brings together 11 teams pairing brewers from both Japan and Oregon. Each team will make a beer or cider that must contain at least one Japanese-type ingredient. Examples include red shiso leaf, shiitake mushroom powder, Japanese citrus fruits, wild Japanese yeast, and Japanese flowers. Two of the Japanese brewers are female, which is extremely rare in Japan. Sushi and ramen will be paired with the unique collabo brews. The purchase of a ticket allows festival attendees to get a taste of all 11 special blends with an opportunity to go back and enjoy more of their favorite. It’s not a competition, but a celebration of collaboration.

“It’s our hope to continue hosting the Fuji to Hood in future years with the possibility of having a similar festival in Japan,” says event coordinator Red Gillen, a Portlander with strong ties to Japan and a passion for bringing people together. He believes Oregonians should be excited about these types of activities.

“First of all, the beer is going to be awesome and unique. None of the beers have ever been made before and may only be made this one time by the teams of expert brewers. Secondly, collaboration creates deeper bonds between Oregon and Japan.”

A strong contingent of Japanese brewers, writers, and beer drinkers are expected to come to Oregon. They have in the past. Some tour different breweries. If they come at the right time of the year, they can visit one of Oregon’s hop fields that produces a growing number

or aroma hops desired by local craft brewers. ODA is often involved in showcasing not only Oregon’s hops, but other high quality and flavorful food and beverage ingredients that interest Japan.

“This collabo brew effort could be a vehicle for other Oregon products,” says ODA’s Yoshioka. “We have excellent fruit—adding a fruit flavor to beer continues to be a trend. We also have some craft malters. The malting takes place right on the farm where the barley is grown.”

For those involved in the April event, the exciting question is, where does it go next? The collabo brew gathering could lead to beers and ciders Oregonians can purchase in stores. The future is wide open. Whatever happens, craft brewers like Sluiter are enthralled by the possibilities.

“The chance to become friends with people from other cultures and to appreciate their language, food, drink, and art is one of the most enriching experiences one can have. It’s through these efforts that other countries and cultures become less abstract and more human. Regardless of which language you say ‘cheers’, it still means you are sharing a drink with friends.”

For more information on the Fuji to Hood Callabo Beer and Cider Festival, go to fujitohood.com •

ODA entomologist Sarah Kincaid shares an on-site bee reference collection with Bogdan Caceu of Le Creole Orchards in Dallas, Oregon—one benefit of the Flagship Farm program. Photo by Olivia Guethling.

Bee Project: continued on page 5

5

with beekeepers, and supporting crops that provide floral resources for bees. Participants receive site-specific advice and information, promotional materials, and statewide recognition by being involved.

Habitat on the Farm“There may be a misconception that a crop plant is not a good resource for bees,” says Sarah Kincaid, IPPM entomologist. She is one of a handful of state agency staff leading the Oregon Bee Project and is directly involved with the development of the programming for growers. “Just like the crop needs pollination, the bees need the food resource, the pollen and nectar [that the crop provides].” In the Willamette Valley, for example, fields are filled with mixed crops, berries, orchards, and high value seed crops that provide dense patches of food for bees. Conversely, in Eastern Oregon, the cold winters and hot summers set

the stage for brief flushes of vibrant wildflowers along with fields of warm season crops such as squash and melons which makes for excellent habitat. The various stages of growth and crop development created by these settings support diverse species of bees.

Farmers as InnovatorsTime and time again ODA’s Kincaid has encountered farmers passionate about managing their land for pollinators. Out of personal interest, one Eastern Oregon hay farmer she met in 2017 put pollinator plantings in the non-productive borders of the fields. Pollination is not required to produce a hay crop, but that didn’t stop this farmer from investing resources in wild bees. Likewise, many farmers of bee-pollinated crops have begun providing additional floral resources during times when their crops are not in bloom, thus ensuring that’s bees

have access to flowers all season long.

By producing diverse flowering crops, providing undisturbed natural areas along field margins, and using pesticides wisely, many farms can support a wide array of wild and managed bees. Through the Flagship Farm Program, ODA hopes to incentivize creative and innovative bee-friendly practices across all sectors of agriculture.

The State of Oregon is doing more now than ever to support bees vital to our agricultural systems and natural environment. The Oregon

Bee Project is publishing a statewide strategic plan and an updated collaborative website with pollinator habitat resources later this year. Learn more about the Oregon Bee Project, the Flagship Farm Program, and how to get involved at www.oregonbeeproject.org •

Citizens’ liaison gives Oregonians a personal point of contactBy Andy Zimmerman

If you have questions about a pesticide or want to make a complaint, do you know whom to call? Would you know where to start?

With the passage of House Bill 3549 during the 2015 Legislative session, you have a contact at Oregon Department of Agriculture: Christina Higby.

A high-profile pesticide incident in Curry County prompted the legislature to add new pesticide licenses and allow the Pesticide Program to increase fees to add investigators and a case reviewer. An emphasis on improving and increasing communication led to the creation of a citizen advocate liaison position, Higby’s job.

“My main job is to assist individuals and citizens that have concerns and questions about pesticides, whether it just be a question they have about a certain pesticide or they have a complaint where they feel they have been adversely affected,” Higby says.

“I work closely with the Pesticide Analytical and Response Center (PARC) to assist in determining how to appropriately respond to the individual’s concern or complaint. For example, if someone has a complaint about a pesticide application made to a forest, it would likely be referred to Oregon Department of Forestry for follow-up. If they’re reporting adverse health effects believed to be associated with a pesticide application, it could be referred to the Oregon Health Authority. It really just depends on the concern or complaint that they have to determine how best to respond.”

Because pesticide investigations can take months, Higby provides updates to concerned citizens so they can get a better understanding

of where a complaint or concern is in the pipeline. The communication also provides a window into how the state responds to complaints or concerns. It especially is helpful when an incident involves multiple agencies, where getting information might not be as easy.

“It provides more of a one-stop shop for information and resources,” says Dale Mitchell, pesticide program manager. “When a citizen is dealing with an issue, the citizen liaison can gather information from different agencies and be that person’s one-point of contact to assist in answering their questions.”

Higby works in tandem with Mike Odenthal, the lead pesticide investigator, when ODA gets referrals from other agencies to decide the appropriate response.

Other inquiries that reach Higby’s desk might not be complaint related, instead they could be general questions about a pesticide, what pesticide to use, or whether a pesticide is safe to use around children or pets.

“Many callers don’t always have a clear understanding of pesticide rules and regulations. I am the person who can provide answers to those general questions,” Higby says. “My job is to help navigate those

questions and provide resources to help answer them.”

One resource Higby regularly connects people with is the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC), which offers health and safety information about pesticides. Concerned citizens also can call NPIC at 800-858-7378 or visit their website at http://npic.orst.edu to get their pesticide questions answered.

Higby works with PARC to coordinate responses when a person reports adverse effects to people, animals, or the environment they associate with pesticide applications. A result of HB 3549 was the

implementation of 211, a 24-hour live phone service that takes information about pesticide incidents. PARC responds to callers within one business day.

“We have received positive feedback that (the citizen advocate

liaison) has provided not only the resource information but the one point of contact,” Mitchell says. “We’re looking at how to expand that role.”

Although no two days are ever the same as the agency’s citizen advocate and liaison, Higby enjoys interacting with the public most.

“I really enjoy interacting with citizens and helping them find the answer to questions that they are seeking,” Higby says. “It is rewarding when someone goes away knowing that there is someone there to listen to their concerns and truly cares about what they have to say.”

Contact Higby at 503-986-5105 or chigby@oda.state.or.us •

Christina Higby assists residents who have questions about pesticides as ODA’s citizen advocate liaison.

A honey bee and bumble bee visit a late-blooming sunflower in the Yamhill County home garden of Michael O’Loughlin—a Flagship Farm program participant. Photo by Olivia Guethling.

Bee Project: continued from page 4

A spring reminder about homeowners using pesticidesBy Andy Zimmerman

As winter releases its grip on Oregon, homeowners are venturing outdoors to work in their yards. Before you apply pesticides, take precautions and be prepared.

The biggest issues are homeowners not reading the label and understanding how much product they should be using, says Rose Kachadoorian, ODA’s pesticide registration and certification leader.

Frustrations with pests can lead people to use more product than they need or that’s safe to use, so making sure you don’t exceed that label rate is important, she says. Keep in mind if there are restrictions in using a product. Is your intended use allowed? Also important is having the required personal protection equipment, such as gloves.

“One of the typical things we see people do is mixing too much product,” Kachadoorian says. “They have a small lawn, and they’re just going to do some spot applications, yet they mix a two-and-a-half gallon sprayer, and have all of this product left. And then we hear how they poured it down a toilet or a storm drain, or poured it down the sink because they don’t know what to do with it. This is harmful to water quality. Think about how much you need, what you’re going to wear, how you’re going to clean up. Be prepared.”

This time of year, Western Oregon homeowners are battling moss, which can crowd out their turfgrass. To combat the problem, people often apply products with iron. Make sure to keep it off sidewalks as it can stain concrete and potentially enter storm drains.

To avoid potentially having to use pesticide products later in the year, prune broken branches so that trees and shrubs don’t get insects and disease in the affected areas.

When it comes to your home, Kachadoorian encourages residents to see whether there has been water damage. Fix issues now to avoid having to deal with pests such as carpenter ants later. •

6

Noxious weed control grants awarded to worthy projectsWhen it comes to funding projects to fight invasive noxious weeds in Oregon, two pots of money are better than one. The State Weed Board this month awarded $1.84 million to fund 63 projects that will assist programs and organizations around the state in the constant battle against some of the nastiest noxious weeds to invade Oregon. In addition to the usual annual funding source available to the board, a new, targeted grant program aimed at counties restores some capability for weed control that may have been lost in recent years. These new dollars also augment the efforts of the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Noxious Weed Control Program.

The Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) provides all funding, through lottery dollars, for noxious weed control grants. ODA and OWEB work together to administer those funds.

“This last biennium, we made our case to the OWEB Board and they allocated $500,000 for a two-year period that specifically targets county weed control programs,” says Tim Butler, manager of ODA’s Noxious Weed Control Program. “This is the first cycle of administering those funds.”

Breaking down all funding awarded by the State Weed Board, 49 projects were funded at a total of more than $1.4 million as part of the regular grant program. In addition, the board funded 14 separate projects at $401,000 from the newly available county weed grant program. The grants generally represent all areas of the state, although some locations have more projects than others. The grants also boost existing weed control efforts and even start new ones.

“For this first county award, we

had 17 applications representing projects for 19 counties with a request totaling more than $554,000,” says Tristen Berg, ODA’s Noxious Weed Grant Program Coordinator. “That’s more than what was available and will help make the case when we go before the legislature or OWEB to show there is a need for additional county funding.”

ODA and the State Weed Board strongly felt there was no reason to wait on getting good projects up and running.

“These grants are designed to meet the needs for county weed programs for new outreach and coordination, cost share projects, or new control projects,” says Berg. “Many county noxious weed control budgets have been cut or reduced and need funding to get noxious weed control work done.”

Projects are restricted to those that restore, enhance, or protect fish and wildlife habitat, watershed functions, native salmonid populations, or water quality. They must also target state listed noxious weeds. ODA and the State Weed Board looked for grant applications that involve on-the ground weed control projects, but those that funded research, survey work, outreach, or project design were accepted if those components are necessary to complete the control portion of the project.

The new county weed control grants, to go along with the funds the State Weed Board awards each year, are a recognition by OWEB and others that invasive weeds pose a serious threat to Oregon. The negative economic and

environmental impacts posed by the presence and spread of invasive weeds is clearly documented. Studies indicate that the economic impact of just 25 of Oregon’s worst noxious weeds has been estimated to reduce Oregonians’ personal income by $83.5 million per year, which is equivalent to 1,900 jobs lost to Oregon’s economy. As grant dollars have increased over the years, so has the quality of applications.

“Since the beginning of the original grant program, the applications and projects have gotten better and better,” says Butler. “It is more difficult for our internal review committee to make recommendations to the State Weed Board on funding—there are a lot of really good proposals out there. I think ODA’s efforts to educate people on what constitutes a good grant proposal and what we are looking for has improved the quality.”

Projects funded in this cycle, from both grant programs, run the gamut. Some focus on early detection and rapid response to noxious weeds new to Oregon or in limited distribution. Others may be cost share projects that provide funding to land managers, farmers, and ranchers to work on weeds that are more abundant but in need of control. In some cases, funding allows for biological control of noxious weeds as part of integrated weed management. Many of them are aimed at restoring watershed health. All of them rely on partnerships.

“Not one grantee is doing all the work themselves,” says Berg. “Many are in concert with federal, state, and local partners like ODA, watershed councils, and soil and water conservation districts. In many cases, they are working across county lines and pulling together with neighboring counties.”

Grants are often used to leverage other funds to boost the effectiveness of weed control efforts. In 2015, grantees provided a 52 percent match on State Weed Board grants which led to the treatment of more than 7,500 acres of weed-infested lands. The new round of funding will also have a large cost-share component.

A number of previously funded projects that are making progress will continue to receive grant dollars in this latest round. Examples include the Upper Burnt River Weed Control District in Baker County, where money is helping landowners fight the spread of whitetop in very remote areas. In Wallowa County, funds focused on early detection allowed for the discovery of a new thistle never before found in Oregon and are now going after other thistle species in targeted areas. Portland State University’s aquatic weed survey work, funded by grants, has uncovered flowering rush. A new PSU grant will allow for more aquatic survey work and early detection.

Butler says the grant programs, including the new one specific to counties, provide a lifeline to those fighting the battle against invasive noxious weeds.

“We want to make the best use of the limited funding available to make the biggest impact on protecting Oregon’s natural resources and agricultural economy.”

For a list of all projects funded by the Oregon State Weed Board Grant Program for 2018, go to https://oda.direct/OSWB2018Grants •

Pokarney ponderings: 27 wondrous yearsWhen I made the final decision about a year ago to retire in March 2018 from the Oregon Department of Agriculture after a long ODA career, it was certain that time would fly.

For several months, I thought about writing my last article for the Agriculture Quarterly. Ending my ODA career after nearly 27 years as Director of Communications, I find it a challenge to “communicate” how I feel. The term bittersweet comes to mind. It’s not easy to leave the best job I’ve ever had. There is

some sadness in saying goodbye to the ODA family and the wondrous experiences I’ve been privileged to have since reporting to work in October 1991.

You’ll notice I used the word “wondrous” rather than wonderful. I felt the urge to write that word, for some reason. Then I stumbled upon a great, descriptive comparison of the two words courtesy of a google search—something that would not have been possible when I started my job so many years ago.

“Wonderful” can be used to describe something that is extremely

good. That term fits just fine in this case. But “wondrous” is something that invites awe and taps into the emotional. That’s really how I’ve felt while having access to a broad range

of events, issues, and people who are connected to agriculture. To be a spokesperson for a state agency is a worthy endeavor. To sometimes be able to consider oneself a spokesperson for an industry is something only a few communications officials get to do.

I’m the lucky one.To recount all of the highlights

over 27 years is impossible.

Grant monitoring in Baker County with Tri-County CWMA, BLM, ODA, and Baker County Weed Control working to protect core sage grouse habitat.

Lincoln County monitors and treats gorse with funding received from the OSWB. Lincoln County gorse sites are in important weed challenge for their area.

Along for the ride with the Noxious Weed Control Program and the aerial release of biocontrol agents fighting Scotch broom.

Pokarney ponderings: continued on page 7

7

Bon voyage, Ray JaindlSince 1993, ODA employees and leaders in the agriculture industry have been working alongside Ray Jaindl, Director of Natural Resource programs. Jaindl retired in March 2018 after taking on a series of positions at ODA that began with watershed health and expanded to include the agency’s programs for Agricultural Water Quality, Confined Animal Feeding Operations, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and Pesticides. The Agriculture Quarterly visited with Jaindl shortly before he retired:

Over the course of your 25 years at ODA, what has changed the most within Oregon’s agriculture industry and ODA itself?I’ve seen tremendous growth in the industry’s knowledge and understanding of both state and federal law in managing natural resources for water quality and endangered species. People in the industry may not like all the laws,

but they are engaged with the issues, understand what they have to deal with and are heavily involved in trying to find solutions. When I say industry, I mean production agriculture. There are several leisure farmers who may not be as actively involved and those are the groups that are more challenging for the agency.

For ODA, I’ve seen growth in the coordination between all programs in the agency. We are all interrelated. I’ve spent quite a bit of time and effort in trying to understand what the other programs are dealing with and how natural resource programs may interact, either because of common issues or policy or strategic plans we develop for the agency. We now keep ourselves informed of others’ trials and tribulations so that we can help wherever we can.

What will you miss the most about the job?The opportunities I’ve had to interact with some phenomenal people in the industry and in state government. These are people who have tremendous qualities. I will miss those opportunities to continue learning from them and being exposed to things in agriculture that I would not been aware of had I not

had this job. I remember a Board of Agriculture tour of the Port of Morrow and a potato processing plant. It was amazing to see all the truckloads of potatoes arriving and think about all the other processing plants around the Northwest that require truckloads of potatoes, the products made from those potatoes, and where they go around the world. As a natural resource specialist, I would have never been exposed to that. But as an ODA program area director, I had that opportunity to learn more about Oregon agriculture. I wouldn’t get that education at a university. It’s being on the ground, working with good people who have a lot of drive and determination to do what they do. I’ll miss that.

Will your ODA experiences help you in retirement in some way? I know what I’m going to do in retirement in terms of traveling and some things at home I’d like to get done. But whether I stay involved in ag related program areas, we’ll see. I do think about doing some international work. I previously worked in the Peace Corps and relished that experience. I’d like to do some short-term assignments. If that happens, the ODA experiences I’ve had over 25 years will be tremendously valuable as I help other people. Whether I get that opportunity, I don’t know. But I will definitely continue to be an advocate of agriculture and my ODA experience will always help me.

What advice do you have for the next generation of ODA employees?The biggest advice I have for anyone coming to the Oregon Department of Agriculture, or any state agency, is learn as much as you can about the agency outside of your own program. Just because you are hired in a specific position, don’t think that’s all you need to know. Broaden your horizons. Look as far as you can—even outside the agency, if possible—to have a better and broader understanding of your role. It will help you personally and help you do your job. •

I’m bound to miss a few. And to capture the evolution of communications from pre-internet to social media warrants a book, not an article. When I was hired as a public information officer by ODA Director Bruce Andrews, his then-Special Assistant Katy Coba, and then-Communications Director Marla Maeder (the creator of the Ag Quarterly), typewriters were only recently replaced by word processors. I began writing the “Story of the Week” in late 1991. It was delivered to media by the US postal service. Even news releases were distributed this way and the information may have shown up in the newspaper or on TV two or three days later. The most urgent of news relied on fax machines. Most importantly, we depended on the media to reach the public. If they didn’t print or air our story, the chances of it getting noticed by a significant audience were limited. Today with email, websites, Facebook, Twitter, and other social platforms, reaching the public directly is most often the preferred path.

I can’t stress enough how diverse the Oregon Department of Agriculture is, reflecting the state’s ag industry in general. The many programs and wide-ranging issues

present a treasure trove of stories to tell. Sometimes those stories have been connected to adversity or unpopular activities. Within months of taking the job, I was being referred to as the “Master of Misinformation” by a citizen activist group protesting our Asian gypsy moth eradication project in North Portland. Witnessing the great flood of 1996—the one that destroyed the Agriculture Building and forced us to relocate for two years—was challenging. We lost our building, but Tillamook dairy farmers lost their livestock and, in some cases, lost their livelihood. In 1999, I accompanied Director Phil Ward as part of a delegation participating in the World Trade Organization conference in Seattle. That was the first and only time I’ve smelled tear gas, as it was used to quell the unruly crowds rioting the streets. Who can forget the “Cow that Stole Christmas”? On the day before Christmas Eve 2003, I received

a phone call from a Reuters reporter asking if I knew anything about an animal in neighboring Washington that had contracted BSE, better

known by the public at the time as mad cow disease. Surely, I would have been given a heads up about something so cataclysmic. But none of us knew until the Secretary of Agriculture addressed a national audience a mere 15 minutes later.

And then there were the stories to be written from travels far and wide. My first visit to Harney County to witness a grasshopper infestation. Some people abhor snakes. I hate grasshoppers. Wearing a white shirt to the site of the outbreak only made things worse as they eagerly crawled all over me. There was the

domestic trade mission with Director Coba and our ryegrass growers as part of a sales pitch to Midwest farmers needing a cover crop to help increase yields. How hot and muggy can it get during an Illinois August? My first international travel included stops in

Japan, Korea, and China as part of a Governor’s Trade Mission. I came away appreciating the fact that ODA

marketing folks who go overseas are not tourists, but hard-working ambassadors for Oregon agriculture.

More than the places and events, I recall and revere the people I’ve been able to work with over the years. At ODA, I’ve counted many of them as friends, all of them I’ve considered professionals dedicated to public service. The farmers, ranchers, fishers, entrepreneurs, leaders, and advocates of Oregon agriculture—you are the past, present, and future. From the young, articulate, and passionate FFA members I’ve met to the wise, venerable stalwarts of the industry, your kindness and willingness to help me tell your story will not be forgotten.

Following retirement, my beloved wife and I will be relocating to South Dakota. Sounds crazy until you consider the powerful pull of a one-year old grandson. We will miss Oregon but take with us a lifetime of memories and friends. I’m riding off into the sunrise (after all, we are traveling east) ready for the next chapter.

Onward and upward. •

Pokarney ponderings: continued from page 6

With Governor Kulongoski on the steps of the Capitol.

Part of a Governor’s trade mission to China and a visit to Tiananmen Square.

A regular attendee at Board of Agriculture meetings.

AnnouncementsConfined Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) Advisory Committee Meeting

Date April 12, 2018Time 1:30 pm–3:30 pmLocation Oregon Department of Agriculture Third floor conference room

635 Capitol St NE, Salem OR 97301Contact Wym Matthews, (503) 986-4792Website https://oda.direct/CAFO

Soil and Water Conservation Commission (SWCC) meetingDate April 16, 2018Time 12:00 pm–4:00 pmLocation Seaside Civic and Convention Center 415 First Ave, Seaside, ORContact Manette Simpson, (503) 986-4715Website https://oda.direct/SWCC

Pesticide Analytical and Response Center (PARC) Board meetingDate May 16, 2018Time 9:00 am–12:00 pmLocation Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal

Charles P. Pray Conference Room 3565 Trelstad Ave SE, Salem, ORContact Ted Bunch Jr., (503) 986-4562Website https://oda.direct/PARC

State Board of AgricultureDate June 5-7, 2018Location Hood River, ORContact Karla Valness, (503) 986-4554Website https://oda.direct/BoardAgriculture

Oregon State Weed Board MeetingDate June 19-20, 2018Time 8:00 am–5:00 pmLocation Bandon, ORContact Ashley Wagner, (503) 986-4621Website https://oda.direct/WeedBoard

The Agriculture Quarterly Spring 2018, Issue 409

The Agriculture Quarterly (ISSN 08978-7143) is published quarterly and distributed free of charge by: Oregon Department of Agriculture 635 Capitol St NE Salem, OR 97301-2532Periodical postage is paid at Salem, OR.

PostmasterSend address changes to the address listed above, attention Information Office.

Department DirectorAlexis Taylor

Director of Communications Bruce Pokarney, retired March 30, 2018Andrea Cantu-Schomus503-881-9049

Publications and Web CoordinatorLiz Beeles503-986-4560

Distribution or reproduction of stories from this publication is encouraged. Please give credit to the publication as the source. Check with the Publications and Web Coordinator if you have questions. The use of product or company names in this publication does not imply an endorsement of any sort. In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act, this publication will be made available in alternate formats upon request.

State Board of Agriculture

• Barbara Boyer, chair

• Pete Brentano

• Stephanie Hallock

• Bryan Harper

• Tracey Liskey

• Sharon Livingston

• Laura Masterson

• Marty Myers

• Tyson Raymond, vice chair

• Luisa Santamaria

• Dan Arp (ex-officio) Dean of Agriculture Oregon State University

• Alexis Taylor (ex-officio) Director Oregon Department of Agriculture

Board members may be contacted through the Oregon Department of Agriculture Director’s Office at: 503-986-4558

Find the Ag Quarterly onlinehttps://oda.direct/Publications

Find Board of Ag info onlinehttps://oda.direct/BoardAgriculture

Find ODA public meetings online https://oda.direct/Calendar

New directors for natural resources and communicationsODA has named Stephanie Page as Director of Natural

Resource Programs and has hired Andrea Cantu-Schomus as Director of Communications to fill two

key positions within the agency’s executive team. Page is moving over to her new position after serving as ODA’s Director of

Food Safety and Animal Health since 2014. She joined ODA in 1999 as a water quality specialist and also served as a special assistant to the director. In her

new role, Page will oversee ODA’s Agricultural Water Quality, Confined Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO), Pesticides, and Soil and Water Conservation

programs. Cantu-Schomus comes to ODA after working at the Oregon Department

of Human Services handling communications for its Child Welfare Program. Previously, Cantu-Schomus worked as Communications Director for then

Secretary of State Kate Brown. She also has a background in television news as a reporter at KGW-TV in Portland. Among other duties, Cantu-Schomus will

work with news media and serve as ODA spokesperson. •Stephanie Page Andrea Cantu-Schomus