Local Food System Infrastructure grants will unlock new sales channels for farmers, lower costs for small businesses through efficiency improvements, and increase access to healthy, culturally relevant foods.

The Washington State Department of Agriculture is asking those in the Vancouver, WA area to be on the lookout after a live yellow-legged hornet was intercepted at the Port of Vancouver.

As spring brings migratory birds to Washington along the Pacific Flyway, the risk of avian influenza (bird flu) rises. Ducks, geese, and swans can carry the virus without symptoms, exposing backyard or commercial poultry before warning signs appear.

Several positions on the Livestock Identification Advisory Committee are open or expiring, including roles for a horse producer, cattle feeder, dairy producers, a livestock market owner, and a meat processor. These positions are appointed by the Washington State Department of Agriculture and require qualified Washington residents from each sector.

High cattle prices and low herd numbers are driving a surge in U.S. cattle theft (2025–2026), especially of young, unbranded animals. If livestock go missing, whether lost or stolen, act quickly and follow proper steps.