NRAS unveils its refreshed identity: Introducing 'Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences’

Kim Vaughn 
Communications

NRAS gets a new name, but keeps its acronym 

After careful consideration and in alignment with our evolving mission and objectives, we are embarking on a transformation journey. We are rebranding our esteemed "Natural Resources Assessment Section" to the dynamic and encompassing "Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences."

This rebranding reflects our commitment to expanding our horizons, fostering innovation, and embracing the evolving landscape of natural resource management. The updated name better encapsulates the diverse spectrum of activities, research, and initiatives we engage in, extending beyond traditional assessment to include cutting-edge agricultural sciences.

Our dedication to excellence, sustainability, and a holistic approach to resource management remains unwavering. As we embark on this exciting rebranding endeavor, we look forward to even more remarkable achievements in the realm of natural resources and agricultural sciences.

Visit the NRAS website to learn more about the program.

In summary: The "Natural Resources Assessment Section" is being renamed to "Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences" to better reflect its evolving mission and objectives.

Moth traps in my home?

A reflection on trapping where unhoused people gather

Kaleb Merwin
WSDA invasive moth trapper

Setting and monitoring moth traps has been an amazing experience for me this summer. I have learned a lot about my city, met many friendly people, and gained some specific skills for finding that “perfect tree.” 

While most people I have met have been curious or even sometimes grateful for the trapping work I do, some are understandably less excited. “You want to put that on one of my trees?” “Are those moths really harmful?” “Is there some kind of outbreak in the neighborhood?” Most who respond this way to a knock at the door are frustrated at the perceived intrusion or worry the presence of the trap signifies that harmful pests are already on their property. The responses I have never heard from someone with a door to knock on are fear, shame, or panic. 

In any major city in America, people live without shelter. In Tacoma, our unhoused population is estimated at nearly 10,000 individuals spread across the city and in constant movement due to encampment sweeps and other threats to their stability and safety. Many displaced people have had unpleasant interactions with public employees, from law enforcement, Department of Transportation officials, and even clerks in public social assistance centers. What should they think then when a sleek state vehicle pulls up to the curb closest to where they have found temporary peace? 

I volunteer in my free time to provide my neighbors without shelter some food and supplies as I am able to. While I am on the job, I don’t necessarily have the time or tools to make these same connections. I am tempted to staple my trap, avoid eye contact, and move on quickly. But I must stop and remember what was taught in training – I am obligated to knock on someone’s door if I wish to put a trap on their property. If I have a conversation with someone about the trap, they are far less likely to pull it down. And importantly: if the person believes a tree to be their property even when you know it isn’t, default to them. The customer is always right. 

I don’t knock on RV and trailer doors. I don’t enter an encampment, just as I would not enter someone’s home. But I do say hello. I do introduce myself. And I do speak as though I am the one asking a favor in someone’s front yard because, for all intents and purposes, I am. Sometimes the first response is fear, panic, or shame. I may not be the first person in a safety vest to approach them, and I’m the one with a staple gun. Speaking calmly and in a friendly voice helps tell the message that I’m here to do good, not make things harder. I personally make a good impression by keeping cold water in a cooler in my trunk. Heat and dehydration are dangerous, and I don’t want any of my neighbors to suffer.

Not every trapper feels safe talking to unhoused strangers, and you should always do what you need to stay safe. I only ask that you remember not all homes have doors, and not all of your neighbors have fences.  

In summary: A WSDA invasive moth trapper reflects on considerations when setting traps in areas where people without housing gather. 

Do you work with WDFW?

A letter to WSDA from WDFW

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is responsible for the management and protection of Washington State’s fish and wildlife resources. The Habitat Program protects the habitat necessary to support fish and wildlife and issues Hydraulic Project Approvals (HPAs) for construction projects or other work in, or near, state waters (Chapter 77.55 RCW). RCW 77.55.351 requires WDFW to make HPA applications accessible to local governments, affected tribes, and other interested parties. WDFW sees an immediate need to update the aging HPA software and database, as well as an opportunity to accomplish other important objectives.

I am reaching out to provide an introduction and an update to our HPA Online Permitting System Replacement Project. It is also important to note that WDFW is not changing or expanding its authority nor its operations. This project provides the agency with an opportunity to examine gaps in the existing system and processes and develop solutions that address those gaps with improved user experience and accessibility.

The project’s objectives are to replace the current Aquatic Protection Permitting System (APPS) with modern infrastructure that enables WDFW to:

• Continue to meet the legal requirements of Chapters 77.55 RCW and 220-660 WAC.
• Improve HPA Online Permitting System functionality.
• Implement defined business processes for providing HPAs.
• Provide a streamlined user experience for administrators and the public.

 

While we anticipate many benefits from this replacement project, I wanted to cover a few specific users and anticipated benefits with the new system:

• Applicants using the new system will enjoy improved mobile device accessibility to provide the greatest flexibility for applying for HPAs and an enhanced dashboard experience allowing greater customization to track updates or needs for their applications.
• Reviewers using the system can expect an improved search function with more options and more searchable project data​ and GIS and mapping integration and support for additional spatial environmental data.
• WDFW Compliance Inspectors will be able to use the new system for their workflows for both permitted and unpermitted work.
• WDFW Habitat Biologists using the system will have fully integrated permit creation from a template library and other permit provisioning improvements as well as closer alignment of the HPA Application and the JARPA form.

The HPA Online Permitting System Replacement Project will result in changes that impact WDFW staff, as well as individuals and groups outside of WDFW, who utilize the permitting system. This includes state and federal agencies, tribes, and local governments who use the system as both applicants and project reviewers. Many of those impacted groups have already been involved in contributing to the HPA Online Permitting System Replacement Project. These groups have participated by voicing their views about what key aspects of the current permitting system (APPS) they would like retained and they have also provided feedback about how they would like to see the new system evolve. I want to take a moment here to thank you if you have participated in these early outreach efforts.

Our next step in the project is to select a system from one of a series of system vendors. After a process of requirements validation with system users, these vendors have been identified as having solutions likely to meet our needs. We will be meeting with the potential vendors in August. During this meeting each vendor will have the opportunity to demonstrate their system to our project’s Evaluation Team who will evaluate each system based on a standard set of criteria developed from the requirements validation process. Once a system is selected, the next step will be to solicit a system integrator: a 3^rd party whose task it is to work with our selected system and configure it to meet the requirements we’ve identified. This system integrator will again be selected using a set of selection criteria by the project’s Evaluation Team. We hope to have the system selection completed in the next 2 months and contracting underway for a system integrator by the end of the year.

Throughout the progress of this project more information will be shared, and we are estimating completion of the project some time in 2025.

If you have questions about the project, please reach out!

• Matt Curtis, Habitat Program Protection Division Manager
• Email: Matthew.Curtis@dfw.wa.gov
• Hannah Faulkner, Protection Division Regulatory Services Section Manager
• Email: Hannah.Faulkner@dfw.wa.gov
• Deirdre Bissonnette, HPA Online Permitting System Replacement Project Manager
• Email: Deirdre.Bissonnette@dfw.wa.gov

 

 In summary: The HPA Online Permitting System Replacement Project will result in changes that impact WDFW staff, as well as individuals and groups outside of WDFW, who utilize the permitting system.

Become a C.A.L.M. communicator with this training opportunity

Daniel Schafer
Communications

We are excited to announce a two-part training series designed to empower you with essential skills to
handle intense interactions and become a C.A.L.M. Communicator. This training will be held via Teams and facilitated by Tony Cloud, a renowned international speaker and trainer.

The trainings are voluntary, and some WSDA employees have already completed part one of the training. If you’ve already completed part 1, you are welcome to attend part 2 to complete the training or attend both sessions in order to get a refresher. WSDA employees are allowed to participate in this training during work hours with approval from their supervisor.

Part 1: Aggression vs. violence: Understanding the difference and how to verbally de-escalate intense interactions

September 14th from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Part 1 of the training will lay the groundwork for effective communication by exploring the differences between aggression and violence and what drives these behaviors. By gaining a deeper understanding, you will be better equipped to respond appropriately to different situations. The session will also focus on developing verbal de-escalation techniques to create a C.A.L.M. environment during intense interactions. As a result, we aim to build a culture of well-being and reduce tension and burnout within our workplaces.

Part 2: Aggression vs violence: Building verbal de-escalation skills and becoming a C.A.L.M. communicator

October 4th from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

In Part 2, we will delve further into the concepts introduced in Part 1. The session will include interactive scenarios reflecting real-life workplace situations, where you will be encouraged to apply the C.A.L.M. principles. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to engage in a knowledge check to reinforce their learning. The highlight of this session is the chance to receive active feedback and live coaching from an experienced C.A.L.M. communicator. By the end of Part 2, you will have honed your soft skills, making you adept at harmoniously interacting with diverse people through verbal de-escalation techniques.

Benefits of becoming a C.A.L.M. communicator

1. Create connection: You will learn how to build rapport and connect with others, even in high-pressure situations. This will lead to improved relationships among colleagues and stakeholders.

2. Avoid escalation: By recognizing the signs of potential escalation, you can defuse tense situations before they spiral out of control, ensuring a safer and more productive workplace.

3. Listen reflectively: Effective communication begins with active listening. As a C.A.L.M. communicator, you will develop the skill of listening attentively and responding thoughtfully.

4. Make a proposal: The training will equip you with the confidence to propose solutions and suggestions respectfully, promoting a collaborative work environment.

This training will not only benefit you personally but also contribute to the overall positive atmosphere within our organization. In order to participate, please sign up using the registration link provided in your email. The sessions will be interactive and engaging, and you will have ample opportunities to ask questions and share your insights.

Let's work together to create a workplace where everyone feels respected, heard, and valued. We look forward to seeing you at the training!

In summary: WSDA is offering a two-part training designed to empower employees with essential skills to handle intense interactions and become a C.A.L.M. Communicator. 

Wellness summer: 3 ways you can make this summer your healthiest yet

Stacy Laney
Health & Wellness Program

Summer is the perfect time to embrace healthy habits and nourish our well-being. In this blog, we'll explore three strategies to help you create a summer filled with vitality, wellness, and support for local agriculture. Let's dive in and discover how you can make this summer your healthiest yet!  

Joining a CSA can infuse your meals with fresh foods.

1. Embrace freshness: Participate in a local CSA

One of the most delightful ways to enrich your summer with nutritious goodness is by joining a local Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. A CSA will not only bring a bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables to your table but also fosters a strong connection with local farmers and supports local agriculture. By participating in a CSA, you get to enjoy an assortment of seasonal produce, from vibrant greens to juicy fruits, all straight from the farm to your plate.

Not sure how get in touch with a local farm? Check out this handy tool from Eat Local First to find a CSA near you. When you do, you’ll find joining a CSA is an easy way to embrace the delicious and nutritious abundance of our region while nurturing a sense of community and contributing to your own wellness this summer!

2. Nourish with care: Offer healthy snacks for meetings

At WSDA, we recognize the importance of promoting health and wellness not just in our personal lives but also in the workplace. When you host a meeting, you have an opportunity to create a positive impact by providing nourishing snacks. That’s why WSDA aligns with Washington State Department of Health’s Healthy Nutrition Guidelines for Meetings and Events. Ensuring we share healthy food at meetings and events isn’t just an agency priority, something of importance throughout the state. In fact, in 2013 Governor Inslee signed an executive order to improve access to healthy foods in state facilities. For more information, review our agency’s policy on providing healthy food at WSDA meetings and events or access the agency form for offering meals or refreshments at meetings.

Encouraging healthier snack choices during meetings not only supports physical well-being but also enhances productivity and engagement. Fresh fruits, wholesome granola bars, mixed nuts, or veggie platters are excellent choices that keep energy levels up without compromising on taste. As we savor these nutritious treats together, we foster a culture of wellness and reinforce our commitment to a healthy work environment. 

3. Elevate your well-being: Participate in Vibrant Soulful Training

As part of our dedication to employee wellness, WSDA is proud to offer access to Vibrant Soulful training resources, thoughtfully curated by Annie Barrett. These resources are designed to empower you on your wellness journey, encompassing both mind and body. You can easily find these valuable materials on the WSDA intranet or join the Vibrant Soulful Teams channel, including regular meetings dedicated to mindfulness, movement, and well-being. 

Make this your wellness summer

Seize this opportunity to embrace wellness and make this summer our healthiest and happiest yet! By participating in a local CSA, providing healthy snacks during meetings, and tapping into the valuable resources of the WSDA Vibrant Soulful training, we take active steps towards nourishing ourselves, supporting our community, and fostering a culture of well-being within WSDA.

In summary: Summer is the perfect time to embrace healthy habits and nourish our well-being. Try these three strategies to create a summer filled with vitality and wellness, while also supporting local agriculture.

A fruitful collaboration with Israel: Paving the way for Washington state cherry exports

Visitors from Israel learn about Washington cherries.

Daniel Schafer
Communications

On July 10, 11, and 12, WSDA had the honor of hosting a distinguished delegation from Israel's Plant Protection Inspection Service (PPIS), USDA's Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), and a representative from the Northwest Horticultural Council. This three-day visit signifies a leap forward in the pursuit of potential cherry fruit shipments from Washington state to Israel. While we acknowledge that there is still much to be done, we're excited to pursue the possibility of this new partnership.

Throughout the delegation's visit, the Fruit & Vegetable Inspection Program had the opportunity to showcase our stringent phytosanitary practices and procedures, fumigation protocols, innovative systems approach, impeccable trackability mechanisms, and container markings. The delegation was composed of three PPIS representatives from Israel, the Director of the Foreign Trade Administration from Israel, USDA APHIS representatives from Maryland, and a dedicated representative from the Northwest Horticultural Council.

One of the critical factors that contributed to the success of this visit was the invaluable expertise and knowledge shared by Enrique Rodriguez and Ricardo Cisneros, our esteemed WSDA F&V Export Supervisor Specialists. Their commitment to the cherry export program and exceptional insights significantly aided the delegation's understanding of our processes and operations.

A partnership with tremendous promise

Our collaboration with Israel's PPIS, USDA's APHIS, and the Northwest Horticultural Council marks a crucial milestone. By fostering strong international partnerships, we can create avenues for trade that benefit not only our respective agricultural industries but also strengthen the bonds between our countries.

In the near future, we envision cherries from Washington state gracing the shelves of markets in Israel, offering a taste of our region's bountiful harvest. The potential economic impact of this market opening cannot be understated, as it provides Washington state growers with access to a new consumer base while boosting the local and regional economy.

As we continue this journey, we are reminded of the core values that underpin our endeavors: dedication, innovation, and collaboration. Our team is committed to working closely with our international partners, sharing knowledge, expertise, and best practices, to ensure the safe and efficient export of cherries to Israel.

The prospects of this partnership are undeniably exciting, and we look forward to exploring further opportunities and strengthening the ties between our regions. If you find this endeavor as compelling as we do, please contact Robert Newell, acting program manager for the F&V Inspection Program, to arrange a Teams. Together, we can celebrate the fruitful collaboration that is paving the way for a new chapter in the agricultural history of Washington state.

In summary: In July 2023 WSDA hosted a delegation from Israel's Plant Protection Inspection Service, along with others. The visit could lay the groundwork for future exports of Washington cherries to Israel.

Breathe easy: 3 tips to help you stay safe when air quality is low during wildfire season

Daniel Schafer
Communications

If you’ve lived in Washington for the past few years, you know that even if you’re far from a wildfire, their effect on air quality can be significant. As we head into the summer, remember that safety is a responsibility we all share. When it comes to air quality, everyone has a role to play. In this blog, we’ll provide tips and resources that can help us all do our part this year.

Participate in Wildfire Smoke Training

Photo by Landon Parenteu.

In the past, this training was primarily sent only to those who have the potential to be in the field and impacted by wildfire smoke. As climate changes and wildfires increase, so do negative effects on our air quality. In the spirit of emergency preparedness and out of concern for all staff, the Emergency Preparedness Program has started a preventative wildfire smoke education for everyone in the agency. Though you may not work or supervise team members with the potential to work in areas affected by wildfire smoke, such as field workers and trappers, it's also important to keep air quality in mind while working from a home office or traveling throughout the state. That’s because we all could be impacted by poor air quality due to wildfire smoke. So let’s be prepared, through education and awareness, in our daily lives. 

For many employees, it will be the first time you have seen this training, which is self-paced and provided by the Learning Center (TLC). If you have staff members that work in the field and don’t have access to a computer with internet access during the work day, contact  emergencyprepared@agr.wa.gov for guidance and to arrange in-person training.

Stay informed 

Part of staying safe when air quality is poor due to wildfire smoke is to be informed on the conditions you’re facing. Here are two resources that can equip you with the information you need to stay safe during wildfire season: 

Hazard Alerts: Visit the WSDA intranet homepage for Hazard Alerts prepared by Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Brenda Davis. Information from these alerts are provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Air Quality Forecast System (NAQFS), and Project Outdoor Air Quality. These alerts are designed to give each of us enough advance notice on poor air quality to take action that will prevent or limit exposure and any harmful health effects.

U.S. Air Quality Index: Air quality hazard alerts from NOAA and NAQFS are a critical tool, but can sometimes lack the specificity we need to understand the current state of air quality. For more detailed information about air quality in a particular location, access the U.S. Air Quality Index at AirNow.gov. By entering your zip code, you can see the state of air quality in your exact location as well as a three-day air quality forecast.

 

Use the most effective PPE: Your good judgement

You know yourself better than anyone else. On top of resources like Hazard Alerts and AirNow, use your own judgment. If air quality conditions seem unsafe, contact your supervisor. WSDA supports employee safety and employees are encouraged to speak up when they feel unsafe.

To learn more about how to stay safe when air quality is low, as well as your rights to a safe work environment as an employee, see L&I’s guide on “Protecting Workers from Wildfire Smoke Exposure.”

While it’s up to each of us to look out for our own wellbeing, program managers and supervisors are required to monitor air quality for employees. They do this by regularly monitoring air quality in the areas where team members are working and taking steps to limit or prevent exposure. These checks are to be done prior to each shift and periodically throughout the scheduled day. Monitoring helps both managers and team members stay safe from the impacts of poor air quality. 

When air quality is low, program managers and supervisors should follow PPE guidelines and ensure their team members have access to the tools they need to carry them out. According to the Exposure Controls section of WAC 296-62-08570, employers, if feasible, must use engineering controls to reduce employee PM2.5 exposure to less than 20.5µg/m3 (WAQA 101, AQI 69). Use the table below to understand what this means for you.

Air-quality decision matrix

 

Table notes

1. Visit the AirNow website or “EPA AIRNow” mobile app (available for download on WSDA issued cellular phones) and compare the value at your location with the AQI action level.
2. Respiratory Protection (RP) includes:
1. N-95 filtering facepiece (provided and encouraged; used on a voluntary basis)
2. N-95 filtering facepiece (provided and highly recommended; used on a voluntary basis)
3. Enrolled in Respirator Protection Program (RPP) (medically cleared & fit-tested)
4. Full-facepiece APR with HEPA filters; Loose-fitting or full-facepiece powered air-purifying respirators; or other respirators that are at least as effective
3. Exposure Controls (EC) Examples:
1. Locating work in enclosed structures or vehicles where the air is adequately filtered
2. Changing procedures such as moving workers to a location below the action level
3. Reducing work time in locations with unfiltered air
4. Changing work schedules to a time with a lower AQI
5. Increasing rest time and frequency, and providing rest locations with filtered air
6. Reducing the physical intensity of the work, lower breathing and heart rates

Critical work includes critical compliance, elevator, electrical and boiler inspections

Imminent hazards are life-threatening or unique situations requiring Designated Safety and Health Coordinator and ISH approval.

Safety is our priority

Staying informed, trusting your judgement, and participating in required training are key steps to ensuring your safety during Washington’s wildfire season. By utilizing resources such as Hazard Alerts, the U.S. Air Quality Index, and safety training from WSDA Emergency Preparedness, you can stay updated on air quality conditions and take a proactive approach to safety.

Remember that your well-being is what comes first, so trust your instincts and communicate regularly with your supervisor and your team to make sure we all stay safe this summer.

In summary: As wildfires become more frequent, their impact on air quality becomes more significant, affecting everyone. For this reason, all agency staff will be required to participate in Wildfire Smoke Training. This blog also provides tips on staying informed about air quality conditions, providing resources like Hazard Alerts and the U.S. Air Quality Index, to ensure everyone's safety during wildfire season.