Press Release

The Colorado STAR soil health program is expanding to an estimated 300 producers, with the addition of 21 Conservation Districts and 7 eligible entities to the list of STAR Plus administrating entities. Funding for this expansion comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Climate Smart Commodities (CSC) grant, which invested $3.1 billion in 141 projects across the country. CDA was the only state department of agriculture to be selected as a project lead on a CSC grant. 

The Republican River Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)

The Hemp Advisory Committee (HAC) at the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) is seeking nominations to fill four seats representing various sectors of the hemp industry. The HAC advises the Commissioner of Agriculture by reviewing proposed rules and recommending new rules or changes to existing rules, including rules that establish CDA’s inspection program to determine THC concentration. 

We love handheld treats and these empanadas fit the bill nicely, especially when there is a delicious salsa crema to dip. Pork is a lean, nutritious source of protein, making it the perfect contribution to a power snack. This is also a great way to use up any extra pulled pork from your latest big gathering or family dinner. Easy to assemble and fun to take anywhere, empanadas are perfect for crushing hunger while meeting up with friends at the local park or hiking your first fourteener.

Informing hay buyers for more than 25 years, the 2023 Colorado Hay Directory is now accepting listings from hay producers. The annual publication provides a by-county listing of available hay resources across Colorado. 

Last week, the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (PACFA) program partnered with Weld County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control to remove 95 dogs from a residence in Weld County. In line with PACFA’s statutory authority, CDA has issued a cease and desist order to the animal owners in this case for operating an animal shelter or sanctuary at their residence without a valid license.

As Colorado legislators finalize the content of the state budget, the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) is praising lawmakers for their support of Governor Polis’s key budget requests that support agricultural communities across our state through passage of the state’s Long Bill. 

The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) State Veterinarian’s Office was notified on March 28, 2023 that a horse residing in Garfield County had tested presumptive positive for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA)

The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) is seeking a new program manager to lead the Bureau of Animal Protection (BAP), which is dedicated to addressing the neglect, mistreatment, and abuse of animals in Colorado. The Department is searching to hire a replacement as current Program Manager, Dr. Rebecca Niemiec, transitions to a new role with Colorado State University. 

Calling all hobby winemakers, homebrewers, craft breweries and wineries to throw down the goblet for the Colorado State fair beer and wine competitions!

The Colorado State Fair is now accepting submissions in four categories: commercial wine, hobby wine, craft beer, and homebrew. Anyone 21 years of age and older can enter.