Ag News Roundup

In today’s Ag News Roundup, more wolf attacks prompt further pack thinning, grain inspection fees may be dropping soon, bears are abandoning salmon streams, a gypsy moth infestation in Washington state may be averted, and seabirds continue to disappear due to lack of food.

Four Wolf Attacks Over Eight Days Prompts Action

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has authorized the killing to two additional wolves from the Meacham pack in Umatilla County. The ODFW had killed three wolves this summer from the Harl Butte pack in Wallowa County after repeated attacks. Many farmers and ranchers in the area feel the department is not moving fast enough to control wolf populations.

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Washington Department of Agriculture Hoping to Reduce Grain Inspection Fees

The Washington Department of Agriculture may be reducing grain inspection fees for exporters. Currently the fee is based on the program’s operating fund, whereas an exporter pays more if there is less money in the fund. A new rule will help the department reduce fees to benefit exporters.

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Experts Say Kodiak Bears are Abandoning Salmon Streams

Researchers with Oregon State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences have found evidence that Kodiak bears are abandoning salmon streams due to changes in the climate. In a study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, bears left salmon to rot after spawning and instead went into nearby hills to feed on berries.

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Female Gypsy Moths Found in Washington State

The Washington Department of Agriculture (WSDA) pest program has discovered actively reproducing female gypsy moths in the state. The team has found evidence of reproducing moths in the past, but the new find will help the department halt the egg-laying activity. It’s hoped that by eradicating the moths now the state can save money.

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Seabirds Disappearing at a Significant Rate

A new Oregon State University study finds that nearly half of all marine birds that spend the summer in the Sound have decreased in population. The study has linked the decline to a steady reduction in fish and krill.

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