ecology

For the 3rd year in a row, the Washington Department of Ecology has declared a drought emergency in central Washington.  Ecology noted in Tuesday’s announcement that back-to-back droughts in 2023 and 2024 took their toll on Upper Yakima, Lower Yakima and Naches watersheds, causing significant deficits in precipitation and soil moisture.   The De...

What are some of the biggest issues facing the farming industry today?  Levi Kukes, Washington’s 2024-2025 FFA Vice President, shares his thoughts.     If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.co...

The Washington State Department of Agriculture is working with producers that have been impacted by the significant drought this season, including where to find assistance and advocating with the federal government. The WSDA’s Amber Betts said this has been one of, if not the worst droughts in recent memory. “ ...

Less than nine weeks remain in 2019, which means it’s time to start thinking about the 2020 legislative sessions for both Washington and Oregon.  Washington state representative Mary Dye said when looking back at this year’s session, there were several “interesting” pieces of legislation that unfairly targeted the farming industry.  The Pomeroy Republican sai...

Less than nine weeks remain in 2019, which means it’s time to start thinking about the 2020 legislative sessions for both Washington and Oregon.  Washington state representative Mary Dye said when looking back at this year’s session, there were several “interesting” pieces of legislation that unfairly targeted the farming industry.  The Pomeroy Republican sai...

Legislation introduced by state Representative Bill Jenkin extending the Walla Walla Watershed pilot appears to be on the path for passage.  House Bill 1013, expands the pilot program through 2021.  It also requires the local Management Board to complete financial and performance audits with the state Department of Ecology on past performance by the end of the year.   ...

The Washington State Department of Ecology announced this week fines and penalties for the second quarter of 2017, including two growers for illegal burning.   One Adams County orchard was fined $2,500 for burning tree roots and other orchard materials without a permit and a Grant County producer was fined $2,000 for burning apple boxes, treated posts and other material.  ...