Farm Radio

The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) reminds veterinarians and rabbit owners that reporting suspected occurrences of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHDV2), including sudden, elevated numbers of rabbit deaths, is mandatory.  Disease reports are identified by the county of occurrence only,  and all other personal information is protected from open record requests.   "This disease is very contagious and fatal to domestic and wild rabbits,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Keith Roehr. “The appropriate response by rabbit owners is vital to limiting further spread of the disease from affected rabbit facilities."   The USDA and the state veterinarian’s office are currently investigating a case of domestic rabbit die off in El Paso county. The carcasses were disposed of and unavailable for testing, but the case is being managed as a presumptive positive due to the clinical signs exhibited prior to death. RHDV2 does not affect humans or domestic specie...

The National Bison Association welcomed the news on Friday that the Government of Mexico has formally opened its doors to import U.S. – produced bison meat into that country. The move formally opens the doors to a new market for U.S. bison meat. “This is a very positive development for the bison business,” said Dave Carter, executive director of the National Bison Association. “The Mexican marketplace offers a growth opportunity for our business. Additionally, many consumers in Mexico tend to favor cuts of meat that are not in high demand by U.S. customers, so this can help our marketers balance carcass utilization.” At the request of the National Bison Association, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service formally petitioned Mexico in 2018 to open their market to U.S. bison meat. That request led to extensive discussions between agricultural officials in the two countries over the protocols and procedures that would be required from exporters. Last week, Mexico formally agreed t...

The Colorado Department of Agriculture is accepting listings for the 2020 Colorado Hay Directory. The annual publication connects hay producers with buyers. “Every year livestock owners from across the state and nation call requesting information about Colorado hay,” said Wendy White, marketing specialist for the Colorado Department of Agriculture. “We are excited to have a publication that helps producers market their hay and serves as a resource for the livestock industry.”  The listing fee is $25, and the deadline is June 15, 2020. The listing form is available  at  www.coloradoagriculture.com  or by contacting the Colorado Department of Agriculture. The directory will be available in August at  www.coloradoagriculture.com/ hay , through CSU Extension offices and various horse and livestock associations in the state, as well as at agricultural events. Each listing includes the type and amount of hay available, bale type and size, whether or not l...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 14, 2020 Contact:  Mary Peck, 720-428-0441,  mary.peck@state.co.us Broomfield, Colo.  - Governor Polis last week issued a proclamation declaring 2020 to be the Year of Local Food in Colorado.  Created in collaboration with the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA), the proclamation highlights the value of local agriculture to the state and the appreciation for all who grow, harvest, process, and distribute food.  “Now more than ever it's important that we support our small Colorado businesses who are key for our local economies,” said Governor Jared Polis.  “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our farmers and ranchers we continue to grow delicious Colorado food to feed our families.” The proclamation, which encourages consumers to purchase Colorado fruits, vegetables, grains, meats, and beverages, also addresses the importance of healthy soils, safe workplaces, fair prices and wages, farmer and rancher co...

SBA Opens Applications for Ag Loans   The Small Business Adminsitration is now clear it can lend to farms and ranches with fewer than 500 employees for COVID-19 related losses through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.  This communication  from the University of Wisconsin clarifies many issues. There is a dedicated window now for receiving those applications ONLY from farms and ranches. These funds will likely go quickly, so  apply now  if you are interested.   Farm Commons (a legal support group for farms and ranches) has tracked on this and has provided a  helpful, step-by-step tutorial video .