Mason County has its first case of bird flu, WA state Department of Agriculture announces

Mason County has reported its first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in domestic birds, particularly affecting a small backyard flock of ducks. The Washington State Department of Agriculture has urged flock owners in the vicinity to enhance biosecurity measures and utilize reporting tools to monitor flock health. This development follows the state's ongoing monitoring since the first case of bird flu was detected in May 2022.

WA Farmers Wrongly Charged Under Climate Laws Pleading for a Fix

Washington farmers are facing financial challenges exacerbated by the state's Climate Commitment Act, which was intended to exempt them from carbon fees but has led to incorrect charges for many. With approximately 3,700 farms lost in the last five years, stakeholders are urging lawmakers to streamline exemption processes to ensure small and mid-sized farms receive the support they need. Governor Ferguson has also expressed his commitment to addressing these concerns during his inauguration.