WSDA has contracted with Metro Institute to administer pesticide licensing exams at professional testing centers across the state through a computer-based platform. Paper-based testing will continue to be available for some time.

On Monday, August 26, 2026, the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) will begin to process Climate Commitment Act (CCA) reimbursement applications. Reimbursements will only be made while there are funds available, so don’t wait to apply!

The East Columbia Basin Irrigation District (ECBID) reported that flooding damage from the East Low Canal breach was not severe, the drainage is complete, and the surrounding soil stabilized. ECBID has confirmed that the breach did not affect the undershot culvert. Crews are now compacting materials to rebuild the canal embankment and will refill the canal when complete, then restore service.

WSDA is offering 1-1 consultations with their In-Market Representatives from SE Asia, South Korea, Vietnam, Japan, Mexico, and Central America.

The National Potato Council (NPC) is rolling out a Seed Treatment Survey for growers to complete to gain critical details on potato seed piece treatment practices.

Please join the Alliance for a roundtable meeting with NWSA Executives and Port Commissioners who will provide updates on terminal operations, facility developments and new ocean services.

American Farmland Trust (AFT) is conducting a survey to gain an understanding of the needs and challenges faced by growers in the Puget Sound region in addressing the future viability of agriculture within their area. As a bonus, Puget Sound growers participating in the survey will be eligible to sign up to win a $100 Visa gift card or a “No Farm No Food” cap.

There are two opportunities to attend the annual PNW Fumigation Stewardship Training. The first training takes place on August 13, 2024 at Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake, Washington. On August 14, 2024, an identical training will take place at the 3 Rivers Convention Center in Kennewick, Washington.

If you or someone you know would like to participate in the Leadership Institute program, now is the time to submit your/their name to the Washington State Potato Commission (WSPC) to be considered for the program.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plans to purchase Potato Products for distribution to various food nutrition assistance programs.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the deadline for commodity and specialty crop producers to apply for the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) for 2022 natural disaster losses is Aug. 14, 2024. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) began accepting ERP 2022 applications in October 2023.   

The Washington State Potato Foundation (WSPF) is constantly looking for new ways to help our growers and contributors to the Foundation’s cause. The Grower Education Committee would like to hear from you about ways we can continue to help our Industry in education and safety.

Requirements for the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) Worker Protection Standard (WPS) inspections have been in place since 1993 to ensure that pesticides are responsibly handled in accordance to regulations through voluntary compliance throughout the industry. Take a moment to learn what to expect from a WSDA WPS inspection.

The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is now accepting applications for its second year of its Compost Reimbursement Program (CRP).