In today’s Ag News Roundup, state agency offers grants to rehab historic barns, pollen counts abundant in many crops, pesticide-handling rules could change for farm families, rabbits on San Juan Islands could be at danger from virus, and OSU research funding soars.
Historic Barn Funding Now Available
From the Washington Ag Network, the Washington State Department of Archeology and Historic Preservation is accepting applications for historic barns throughout the state. The grant program helps with rehabilitation projects. Deadline is September 27, 2019.
New Study Shows Pollen Abundance in Specific Crops
Oregon State University and Texas A&M University have found that almond, cherry, and meadowfoam provide enough pollen for honeybees. However, the study found that some crops do not, including highbush blueberry and hybrid carrot seed crops.
New Pesticide-Handling Rules Could Affect Farm Families
The Washington Department of Labor and Industries took comments in August on pesticide-handling rules. This included regulations on a farm’s extended family. More information about the findings could be made public in the coming months.
Viral Disease Affecting Rabbits in San Juan Islands
According to the Washington State Department of Agriculture, the deadly rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 (RHDV2) has been confirmed on the San Juan Islands. This virus can cause sudden death in rabbits, but poses no threat to humans.
OSU Annual Research Funding Surges
Oregon State University research funding rose by 15% in the last fiscal year, according to university news. OSU research covers a wide range of agricultural as well as other research endeavors.