Tammy Best retiring from Yakima hop lab

 Chris Wiseman, Plant Protection

After more than 25 years of dedicated service to WSDA’s Chemical and Hop Laboratory, Tammy Best, laboratory technician 3, is setting her sights on a well-deserved retirement and spending more time with her partner Kristen and family. She retires at the end of this month.

Tammy began her career in August 1995 as a laboratory technician 1, supporting the Pesticide Data Program at the Yakima-based lab. In 1998, Tammy took on another task of analyzing all the state’s brewing values for the bitter acids in hops during harvest. She spent many hours, working six days a week during the harvest to support the needs of the agency and hop industry. 

Throughout her career with the laboratory, Tammy became the lead technician for the Pesticide Data Program and the main person to prepare standards for the entire lab. She also spent a couple years analyzing feeds and fertilizers for guaranteed analysis and served as the lab’s safety officer. She ensured all employees were safe along with anyone else who walked into the lab.

Tammy is leaving some big shoes to fill. Her coworkers will miss her laughter, jokes, stories, and willingness to help whenever asked. Tammy has built many close relationships over the years that will continue on into retirement. 

All of us thank Tammy for her contributions to the agency and say “Congratulations, you made it!”. Remember us when you’re out on that boat fishing or lounging up at the cabin. It’s time for you to put those test tubes and beakers down, and pick up your fishing pole and beer. 

In summary: After more than 25 years of dedicated service to WSDA’s Chemical and Hop Laboratory, Tammy Best, laboratory technician 3, is retiring on Feb. 28. Her coworkers will miss her laughter, jokes, stories, and willingness to help whenever asked. 

Planning begins for post-COVID modern workplace

Derek Sandison, Director, and Patrick Capper, Deputy Director

The "Woman Dancing" statue on the East Capitol
Campus in Olympia, with the Natural Resources
Building in the background. 

The COVID-19 pandemic caused an immediate and seismic shift in the way we work. Many essential WSDA employees continued their inspection and investigative work on jobsites with new safety procedures. Many others left office cubicles behind and have been primarily working from home for nearly a year now. 

Where and how will we work going forward? How can we apply what we’ve learned to a post-COVID future?

On Feb. 5, agency Leadership Team members and key support staff met to discuss questions like these and how “modern work environment” guidelines could be used to re-envision our workspace. 

The initial focus of this effort will be on the Natural Resources Building, the agency’s headquarters in Olympia where about one-quarter of our workforce is based. But the eventual plan is likely to affect all staff members to some degree and the agency as a whole. 

While unplanned and involuntary, our 2020 experience presents an opportunity for WSDA to explore and plan for new ways to work and use office space. 

This post-COVID workspace planning conversation has just begun. However, in some ways it’s a continuation of work that began in 2016, when the biggest challenge in the NRB was lack of space. 

To support a 2016 governor’s executive order, the Office of Financial Management began helping state agencies identify, experiment with and adopt innovative ways to support its business by modernizing physical environments, providing greater workplace flexibility, and enabling a more mobile workforce. 

A survey issued to all WSDA employees in October 2020 confirmed a significant shift to some level of telework status. 

Before COVID-19, about half of all agency staff worked fulltime in an agency facility, such as an office. Since pandemic restrictions took place, about one-third of all WSDA employees work fulltime from their homes, with another third spending some of their time teleworking. 

The same survey revealed that 94 percent of respondents preferred to continue some level of teleworking, either fulltime or at least more so than before COVID-19. More than 80 percent of teleworkers reported their work productivity was either the same or had improved.

Our current teleworking requirements remain in place – employees in positions that allow performing all or part of their jobs from home should continue teleworking at least through March. Leadership is assessing teleworking plans quarterly. 

As the state approves reopening phases and vaccines become more available, it becomes more likely that some level of return-to-work will occur this year. But how and where we work will likely look quite different than in 2019. 

Among the issues discussed in the initial WSDA planning meeting last week were how to:

• Leverage the advantages and preferences for teleworking while enhancing collaboration and connection among staff.
• Provide consistent and helpful guidance and policy while building in flexibility for individual situations.
• Design around work rather than individuals.

As this planning effort continues, a core group of staff representing facilities, project management, fiscal, human resources, and communications will incorporate direction from the Leadership Team and input from program managers. And they will provide opportunities for line staff to provide input as well.

The planning we do now will position WSDA to transition to the modern workplace environment of the future. 

Stay tuned to the Connect, this Insider blog, and watch for emails to learn about developments as we move forward. 

In summary: Where and how will we work going forward? How can we apply what we’ve learned to a post-COVID future? On Feb. 5, agency Leadership Team members and key support staff met to discuss questions like these and how “modern work environment” guidelines could be used to re-envision our workspace. As the state approves reopening phases and vaccines become more available, it becomes more likely that some level of return-to-work will occur this year. The planning we do now will position WSDA to transition to the modern workplace environment of the future. 

As COVID-19 vaccines roll out, how are WSDA employees affected?

Kathy Davis, Communications

An effective vaccine for the COVID-19 virus is now being administered across the country. While working for WSDA does not automatically make you eligible to receive the vaccine, updated planning by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has put some agricultural and food processing workers into an upcoming phase to receive the vaccine. 

What does this mean for WSDA employees?

A number of factors determine your place in line for vaccine eligibility. Along with occupation, these include: 

• Your age.
• Underlying health conditions.
• The type of contact you have with others.
• The number of people you interact with.
• The length of time you spend with them. 

Federal agencies have released guidance on vaccine prioritization, and our state is following DOH’s distribution plan. However, local governments like counties may follow their own timeline. Depending on where you live, your regional health district may provide the vaccine at a different pace, based on local needs and resources.  

We will do our best to keep current on vaccination plans that affect WSDA employees. However, plans may change due to vaccine availability, evolving science, or new federal guidance.  

This blog provides overview information only for WSDA employees. To stay informed of complete and current guidance, watch DOH’s online COVID-19 vaccine information and check your local public health agency. 

What’s happening now?

DOH has scheduled the vaccine rollout in phases (1A, 1B, etc.) and numbered tiers within those phases. See their visual timeline for an overview. 

As of January 18, 2021, these groups are currently eligible to receive the vaccine:

• Workers at risk of COVID-19 in health care settings.
• High-risk first responders. 
• Those who live or work in long-term care facilities.
• Age 65 and older.
• Age 50 and older who live in a multigenerational household. Specifically, an older adult who cannot live independently or an elder caring for a family member, such as a grandchild. 

What’s next?

Upcoming stages, scheduled for spring and summer 2021, include agricultural and food processing workers. 

The next eligible group includes workers age 50 and older who work in an enclosed (indoor) space within 6 feet of many others for more than 3 hours in a 24-hour period. (For more specific criteria, see the DOH guidance summary.) 

Later in the summer, workers under age 50 who meet the same criteria above become eligible.

Workers who are able to maintain social distance, telework, or do not work in a public or group setting are not included at this time.  

How will I know when it’s my turn?

DOH has created an online tool called Phase Finder. Answer a series of questions to find out if you are eligible for the vaccine, and if not, to be notified when it is your turn. If you are eligible now or at the time you become eligible, the tool will help you locate where you can get the vaccine near you. 

Am I required to be vaccinated?

No. However, COVID-19 vaccines represent our best hope for stemming the deadly destruction of this pandemic, getting our economy back on track, and returning to normal lives. The more people who get vaccinated when they are eligible, the sooner we will get past this crisis.

In summary: An effective vaccine for the COVID-19 virus is now available and rolling out in Washington State. While working for WSDA does not automatically make you eligible to receive the vaccine, updated state planning has put some agricultural and food processing workers into an upcoming phase to receive the vaccine. This blog provides overview information for WSDA employees and provides resource links to stay updated on specifics. 

Part of history, humanitarian Neil Lanning exits WSDA

Kathy Davis, Communications

After serving nearly 20 years with the agency, Neil Lanning will retire at the end of January. His first job at WSDA is directly related to his most memorable day – Dec. 23, 2003, when the first U.S. case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) was announced in Washington State. 

Neil started at WSDA in June 2001 in a project position conducting BSE prevention education for the Feed Program, which was then part of the Pesticide Management Division. 

Cow that stole Christmas

“The day the BSE cow was announced, I was in a meeting with several WSDA leadership team members,” Neil recalls.

The group was discussing what to do with the milk from the farm where the cow was found. Should the milk be dumped out of an abundance of caution? Or was it safe? And how would dumping it affect the milk market?

Neil with his family visiting Disneyland.

“The person in charge looked right at me and asked ‘What do we know about the milk?’,” Neil said. “Because I had been conducting education for two years on BSE feed rules and the science behind it, I was able to confidently respond.”

Neil explained the research of milk taken from BSE cows fed and injected into calves that did not cause BSE. 

“Being able to instantly provide that science may have prevented a major disruption of the U.S. milk market.”

Distinguished career

When his BSE project position ended, Neil became the first, and only, field inspector for the “keep manure out of water program” when it was moved from Department of Ecology to WSDA. 

Neil and his wife, Alice. 

He returned to the Feed Program and conducted feed inspections and complaint investigations from 2004 to 2012. When the program moved into the Food Safety and Consumer Services Division, he spent over a year as a food safety officer, doing work related to both feed and human food. 

He started in his current position as Western Washington area manager for the Pesticide Compliance Program in March 2014. 

“I have been fortunate to work with a lot of very knowledgeable, dedicated, friendly staff from day one at WSDA,” Neil said. “ The Western Washington Pesticide Compliance team is a very close group of people, and I am privileged to be part of it.”

Community Service Award

In 2014, Neil received an agency recognition award for his humanitarian service to the people of Haiti. Neil first got involved in 2009 as part of a team that delivered supplies to an orphanage and community medical clinic. 

He returned in 2012, leading a team of volunteers to plant trees, paint part of the orphanage, and collect soil samples from fields used for food production. Neil also led a fundraising event that raised more than $30,000 -- enough to buy, ship and install a modern solar electrical system for the orphanage and medical clinic. 

Among his post-retirement plans is to continue being involved in church and mission projects, perhaps going back to Haiti. 

He, his wife and his 90-year-old mother-in-law also plan to camp in their RV while they travel around the U.S. and Canada. 

Thanks, Neil – for all your valued service to WSDA and Washington State!

In summary: After serving nearly 20 years with the agency, Neil Lanning will retire at the end of January. He was at the table when the first BSE case showed up in Washington, and was the first WSDA dairy nutrient inspector. He led a Pesticide Compliance area team. And his humanitarian work has improved lives for people in Haiti.  

Courage and contagious laughter; colleagues miss Catherine Bowman

Maryann Connell and Christina Zimmerman, Pesticide Management Division

Editor’s Note: The Pesticide Management Division lost a valued and beloved colleague on Nov. 22 when Catherine Bowman passed away at her home. She was a management analyst with the division’s Administrative Section and supported the  Compliance Program. Two of her division coworkers, Christina (Tina) Zimmerman and Maryann Connell contributed to this tribute to Catherine. 

Catherine was a strong and courageous woman, and a woman of strong faith. While her life was full of challenges, she always met them head-on and with courage. We had a few discussions about courage; feeling the fear and doing it anyway. In that regard, Catherine not only demonstrated her courage, but helped others find theirs.

Catherine’s customer service expertise was vast. Her previous career experience included working in the childcare and insurance industries. At the Alaska State Patrol, she was the primary assistant to a region commander. She also worked for a conservation district in Oregon. 

Catherine laughs as coworker Haydee
Pingol looks on. 

Catherine started her 20-year Washington State career at the Department  of Licensing in 2000, and promoted up in that agency. She came to WSDA in March 2008.

Catherine was also a grandmother and mother, and her family was the important focus in her life. 

She was a skilled homemaker, with the knowledge of a pioneer woman. She took joy in creating a wholesome home environment for her grandchildren, and took pride in building her little family farm and garden. 

Many of us were privileged to learn about the latest rabbit capers, building the turkey pen, and the night-time escapades of her prized pet, Ms. Goose. She loved being active, whether it was riding horses or bicycles, or baking, canning, or building another shelter for her animals.

“With common sense, extensive experience, a strident voice, a strong opinion, and a determined step, Catherine was a force that helped keep our division on task,” noted Chery Sullivan, manager of the Dairy Nutrient Management Program. 

“Catherine was also a joy; she laughed easily and frequently at the silliness of life and work. When she graced my space, we generally talked about life on the farm…chasing wayward livestock, favorite heirloom apples, preserving garden harvests and family traditions. Catherine was a pioneer in her heart and deeds, and I miss her.”

Catherine and Maryann Connell.

“Catherine was a valued colleague,” said Tim Schultz, acting manager of the Pesticide Compliance Program.  

“She kept us in line as to due dates and getting documents submitted properly. Her laughter was contagious. She enjoyed my chocolate deliveries. Catherine helped make the world a better place. She is missed, but her influence will continue.”

Over the last five years, we shared a lot of conversations and laughs in our day-to-day interactions, or just dealing with life’s unforeseen challenges. I’m going to miss that voice in the next cubicle for a long, long time. 

In summary: The Pesticide Management Division lost a valued and beloved colleague on Nov. 22 when Catherine Bowman passed away at her home. Catherine was a strong and courageous woman, a grandmother and mother, who took pride in building her little family farm and garden. Two of her division coworkers provided a tribute to Catherine for the Insider. 

In-person pesticide training models safety practices

Robert Ambriz, Safety Program

Jaime Ramon presenting at a pesticide safety
training in Prosser on Dec. 15.

As the safety officer assigned to Eastern Washington, I had the opportunity on Dec. 15 to observe the WSDA Technical Services and Education Program (TSEP) team conduct an in-person pesticide safety training for farmworkers who apply pesticides. 

I am well aware of how dedicated this program is to providing high-quality education services to for our state’s agricultural industry. Since May of 2020, the program had moved many classes online in response to COVID-19 restrictions. This was one of the first in-person training opportunities they have offered since the pandemic started.

Ofelio Borges, TSE program manager, told me, “In-person training is crucial, because a lot of agriculture workers don’t have a computer, internet, or the knowledge to access online training platforms” 

Practicing COVID safety

Working with the training sponsors, apple growers and the venue, Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center in Prosser, the TSE team made sure to follow state, federal, and public health guidelines. Class participants lined up outside at social distance. Staff did not allow anyone to enter without a mask. If anyone didn’t have a mask, TSEP or the training sponsors provided one. 

Inside, participants were checked in and their temperatures checked. The training area was big enough for socially distanced seating. Seating places and handout packets were already  assigned, along with a properly disinfected electronic answering remote unit (clicker). 

Signs with COVID-19 requirement reminders were posted around the building. During breaks and lunch, everyone ate their food inside their vehicles. 

The trainers -- Bradley Farrar (supervisor), Jeff Robinson and Jaime Ramon – covered federal and state Worker Protection Standard topics through the following five modules: Mixing and Loading, Respiratory Protection, Personal Protective Equipment, Decontamination, and WPS Additions. 

Evaluations were administered before and after the class using the clickers. Videos, examples in the packets, PowerPoints, and actual safety gear were incorporated into and supported the training. 

Engaging and beneficial

TSEP staff engaged their audience by asking questions, encouraging participation, and even telling jokes. 

Class participant Lorenzo Villafana pronounced the training beneficial. “I have participated in two trainings hosted by TSEP, and I enjoy how well they deliver the information so we can understand,” he said.  

First-time TSEP trainee Gustavo Alvarez also said he enjoyed it. “On top of education, it was more delightful due to some laughter,” he commented. 

Rodrigo Ramos has attended many TSEP trainings, including in Richland, Grandview, and Yakima. “I like the training because they are always updating it, such as when there is a new rule,” he said. “Many have never worked in applying pesticides and can learn a lot. I can share the knowledge I learn with those who can’t attend.” 

The TSE team obviously has exceptional training skills. They also model best safety practices for our agency – promoting safe pesticide use, adhering to COVID-19 public health requirements, and in all the work they do. 

In summary: Eastern Washington safety officer Robert Ambriz recently had the opportunity to observe the WSDA Technical Services and Education (TSE) Program team conduct an in-person training for farmworkers who apply pesticides. It confirmed for him the team’s dedication to practicing best safety practices in all that they do.  

Pest Program finds holiday spirit, despite COVID-19

Jessica La Belle, Pest Program

2020 - it’s been “A Year.” In February, I moved from my nice sit-stand desk with dual monitors in my comfortable office cubicle to a laptop on a makeshift stand at my kitchen table. Then “murder hornets” happened. Except for a couple brief interludes, I haven’t seen my coworkers, who are a wonderful ragtag family, since then. 

I think I speak for many of us here at the Pest Program when I say that after we work hard, we play hard. A yearly tradition is the Pest Program Holiday Party, where we “liberate” unattended chairs and jam 40 people into a conference room, feast on potluck dishes, pelt each other with stuffed snowballs, and engage in a raucous, no-holds-barred white elephant gift exchange. 

We try to outdo one another on strange gifts (my offering last year was a knitted lobster), and it’s not uncommon to see people laughing until tears run down their faces. Afterwards, there’s a palpable sense of relief, joy, and togetherness.

Despite all the changes that this year has brought, the Pest Program has remained the same—working together as a team, implementing a successful field season for various surveys, supporting one another, and adapting. We decided to have a virtual holiday party instead! 

We couldn’t have a virtual snowball fight, but we were able to come up with some other activities. We showed one another our holiday decorations, and held our pets up to the camera. We played trivia games and “Two Truths and A Lie,” where you give two true statements about yourself and a false one, and your coworkers attempt to guess the lie. 

I learned a lot about my coworkers, notably:

• Thomas, one of our GIS specialists, has a perfect little dog named Latte who wears festive sweaters, and I am in love with her. (My dog Tristan is now jealous.)
• When in-person trivia nights at bars are a thing again, I want Karla, our public engagement specialist, on my team. I do not want to play against her in trivia, ever.
• Stephen King bought beer for our Yakima pest biologist Mike Bush. He later said they’re second cousins, but he says a lot of things and I’m skeptical about that part.
• Jennifer, the manager of our Plant Pathology Molecular Diagnostics Lab, who does a lot of fancy science that I don’t fully understand, has had some amazing travel adventures.
• I can successfully trick my coworkers into thinking I’m a licensed falconer (except Karla). 

We weren’t able to replace the traditional potluck feast with a virtual one, but we came up with a alternative—creating a recipe book with recipes that were meaningful to members of the team. The assembled eBook includes photos of those who submitted recipes, so we could see one another’s faces again. 

I also channeled my inner digital artist and designed a cover with our target pests around a table sharing a meal together: gypsy moth, vineyard snail, Asian giant hornet, apple maggot fly, and Japanese beetle. The finished book ended up being a nice way to share things with and learn from one another.

This year has been rough, and I’m not sad to see 2020 go. But it has reminded me to have gratitude for what I have instead of what I wish I could have, and I’m grateful for the people I work with. Even when their presence may be only virtual, it’s a strong presence that represents a truly great team. 

In summary: A yearly tradition for the Pest Program is their holiday party. Despite all the changes this year, the program has worked together as a team, supported one another, and adapted. Read Jessica La Belle’s description of the virtual holiday party the team held to celebrate this year.