Employee Newsletters, Inside APHIS, 2013-2015

Description of document: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) employee newsletters, Inside APHIS, 2013-2015

Requested date: 29-February-2016

Released date: 21-April-2016

Posted date: 06-June-2016

Source of document: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service U.S. Department of Agriculture FOIA Director Legislative and Public Affairs Freedom of Information Act 4700 River Road, Unit 50 Riverdale, MD 20737 Fax: 301-734 -5941 Email: [email protected]

The governmentattic.org web site (“the site”) is noncommercial and free to the public. The site and materials made available on the site, such as this file, are for reference only. The governmentattic.org web site and its principals have made every effort to make this information as complete and as accurate as possible, however, there may be mistakes and omissions, both typographical and in content. The governmentattic.org web site and its principals shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damage caused, or alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the information provided on the governmentattic.org web site or in this file. The public records published on the site were obtained from government agencies using proper legal channels. Each document is identified as to the source. Any concerns about the contents of the site should be directed to the agency originating the document in question. GovernmentAttic.org is not responsible for the contents of documents published on the website. USDA - United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant April 21, 2016 Health Inspection Service

Marketing and Regulatory Programs

Legislative and Re: FOIA Request 2016-APHIS-02598 Public Affairs

Freedom of Information This reply is in response to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request you submitted to this office on 4700 River Road February 29, 2016, seeking the following: Unit 50 Riverdale, MD • A digital/electronic copy of each of the APHIS employee newsletters produced during 20737-1232 calendar years 2013, 2014 and 2015.

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) office conducted a search of its electronic files on March 4, 2016 and located records responsive to your request. After a review of the records, we've determined that they can be fully released to you.

Although no records were withheld or denied, you still have the right to appeal our response. If you choose to appeal, your appeal must be in writing and received within 45 days from the date on this letter. Please send appeal to:

Administrator Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Ag Box 3401 Washington, DC 20250-3401

If you choose to Appeal, please refer to tracking number 2016-APHIS-02598-F in your appeal letter and add the phase "FOIA APPEAL" to the front of the envelope. To assist the Administrator in reviewing your appeal, provide specific reasons why you believe modification of the determination is warranted.

If you have any questions pertaining to this response, please contact Terry Henson at (301) 851-4086.

Sincerely, ~~LJ~

Tonya G. Woods Director Freedom of Information &Privacy Act Legislative and Public Affairs

Enclosure (PDF File)

An Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Vol. 1, 2013 APHIS in this issue click aphis supervisor of Students Blaze Career Paths Did You Know? 12 the year award By Mike Booth Through AgDiscovery 2 APHIS Publications: On January 10, APHIS hosted its third The individual program award winners are: Veterinary Services: Sharing the APHIS Story 12 annual Supervisor of the Year Award Netting Good Ceremony (VIDEO) in Riverdale, MD. During • Peter (Rick) Kirsten, an Animal Care Health for U.S. Wildlife the event, the agency honored six outstand- supervisory animal care specialist based Ornamental Fish 4 Services: ing supervisors with awards and recognized in Michigan. Taking a Bird’s the role of APHIS supervisors as cornerstone • Katherine Stoddard, a facilities manager Acting Administrator Shea Eye View 13 positions essential to APHIS’ success. Other for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Visits Tuskegee University 5 APHIS offices—Fort Collins, CO; Kona, HI; Business Services in Raleigh, NC. Question of the Day 14 Minneapolis, MN; and Raleigh, NC—joined • Kaipo Ng, a supervisory Plant Protection Speed and Cooperation the ceremony by video teleconference. and Quarantine officer at Kona Interna- tional Airport in Hawaii. Combat Dog Fighting 6 Worker’s Compensation Of the six program award recipients, Michelle • Michael Kornreich, Veterinary Services’ Program: Changes Benefit Wenberg of Policy and Program Development area veterinarian in charge for Pennsylva- Let Me Be Clear: Employees and Agency 14 Plain Writing Matters 7 (PPD) was recognized as the 2012 APHIS nia and New Jersey. Supervisor of the Year. Wenberg is chief of • Phillip Mastrangelo, Wildlife Services Symposium the agency’s Budget and Program Analysis State director for North and South Dakota. Census of Agriculture: Highlights Staff. Her nomination represented a combined You Can Help Spread “Native Lands, pool of the agency’s smaller programs: Bio- the Word 8 Native Ways” 15 technology Regulatory Services; the Office of Civil Rights, Diversity and Inclusion; Interna- APHIS Time Volunteer Spotlight: tional Services; Legislative and Public Affairs; Capsule Danielle Koski and and PPD. Quietly Waits 9 Jennifer Lamoreux 16 Acting Administrator Kevin Shea said Recent APHIS Retirees 9 Worktip: Prepare Yourself choosing one person out of such an for Global Learning 17 exceptional group was a difficult task, but Agency Calendar 10 Wenberg’s nomination stood out due to Phil Mastrangelo, Michael Kornreich, and Art and Agriculture many examples of her sincere desire to Michelle Wenberg (left to right) participate in Manager Profile With Competition Begins 17 develop and encourage employees. Matt Royer 11 the panel discussion. Continued on next page page use to display supervisors of the year

APHIS page 1 [ 2 ] 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 students blaze aphis careersupervisors paths ofthrough the year close supervisor agdiscovery Continued from page 1 At the awards ceremony, Acting Associ- ate Administrator Peter Fernandez spoke By Vivian Keller about each of the honorees’ strengths and It’s a long way from the glitter of Miami to the collaboration between APHIS and Alcorn qualities as a supervisor. Fernandez also friendly streets and fields of Ames, IA. But State University in Mississippi and has remarked on one of the skills they all share for Ashli Jay, a participant in the AgDiscov- steadily grown. in common—the ability to communicate ery program sponsored by APHIS and Iowa effectively with their employees. State University (ISU) in 2010, it’s been a road In summer 2013, nearly 250 students will par- happily traveled. The girl who was told in high ticipate in AgDiscovery. APHIS programs will Following Fernandez, award recipients school she was “too skinny and too small” fund 17 schools that will host AgDiscovery’s participated in a brief panel discussion to to be a veterinarian for farm animals is now 2–4 week boarding sessions, featuring a mix share their insights and advice regarding a sophomore studying animal sciences at of lectures, hands-on workshops, and field being a supervisor. ISU—and recently wrapped up a stint at the trips, many led by APHIS personnel. Acting Administrator Kevin Shea spoke university’s beef teaching farm. too about the valuable role of APHIS Eleven of the host schools are 1890 supervisors and the importance of agency Better yet: since July 2012, Jay has been land grant universities, including Florida supervisory initiatives, including the devel- working part time in the salmonella labora- Agricultural and Mechanical University opment of the Leadership Roadmap and tory at APHIS’ National Veterinary Services (FAMU), where sophomore Nohely Gonzalez is the “So you think you want to be a super- Laboratories (NVSL). “I don’t know where I’d in pre-vet studies. visor?” class for prospective supervisors. be if I hadn’t gone to AgDiscovery,” says Jay. “It’s made a huge impact on me.” “My grandfather told me to pick [a profes- The APHIS Supervisor of the Year awards Ashli Jay participated in the 2010 sion] that will help the world,” says Gonzalez, began in 2010, as part of an initiative AgDiscovery program at Iowa [changing lives] a participant in FAMU’s 2009 AgDiscovery launched by former Administrator Cindy State University. Jay is just one of many students across program. Gonzalez’s “aha” moment Smith to cultivate, train, and recognize America whose lives and futures have been came during a hands-on session at the supervisors in the agency. (back, left to right) Rickchanged Kirsten, forever Katherine by APHIS’ Stoddard, AgDiscovery Kaipo Ng, Michaeluniversity’s Kornreich, research farm, and when Phillip she reachedMastrangelo; outreach program. Designed to help middle deep inside a pregnant cow. She’d always APHIS congratulates all of our outstanding (front, left to right) Peter Fernandez, Michelle Wenberg, and Kevin Shea.

and high school students learn about careers thought she wanted to be a vet, she says— supervisors! l

in plant and animal science, wildlife manage- feeling the head of the cow’s unborn calf see group photo ment, and agribusiness, AgDiscovery began made her certain. click in 2002 with 12 students. It started as a of honorees Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 career paths through agdiscovery

Continued from page 2 Gonzalez went on to become a two-time Ag- Talking to a zookeeper, she learned that she USDA, she says, and loves her job at NVSL. Discovery counselor and received a scholar- could work with big cats in the field. “I never In fact, she’s starting to think that a laboratory ship under the USDA/1890 National Scholars even knew this was an option [before AgDis- job might ultimately be a better fit for her than Program that provides her with full tuition, covery],” says Thomas. “I thought, wow, that a life tending farm animals. “It can get cold out room, and board during her undergradu- is what I want to do!” there in the winter!” she says. ate years, as well as summer employment through USDA. She will work for USDA at [building new skills] Whatever she decides, AgDiscovery has least 4 years after completing her schooling— Training in leadership skills, learning to work helped the girl who once asked “Iowa, in the field, she hopes, “touching animals… in a group, and interacting with a culturally di- now where is that?” find her place in the and helping out small farmers.” verse group of students are among the many world: in the heart of America’s Midwest, AgDiscovery perks cited by participants—as in agriculture. l [finding unexpected paths] is making lasting contacts. Sometimes AgDiscovery leads participants down unexpected paths. Taylor Thomas, a Sarah Bloomer is currently a North Carolina John Scott, Editor freshman wildlife conservation major at the State University (NCSU) freshman considering APHIS (301) 851-4068 [email protected] University of a future as a veterinarian with a corporation Delaware, or—as a result of two AgDiscovery summers Photo sources: Animal Care, M. Booth (LPA), A. initially at NCSU and FAMU—with USDA inspecting Eaglin (LPA), J. Fosse (VS), One Heart Equestrian Therapy, B. Saidy (WS), Tuskegee University, Wildlife thought animals at the border. She met NCSU sopho- Services. she’d work mores Thomas Privott (natural resources/polit- Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving with farm ical science major) and Jake Thompson (plant all APHIS employees by delivering agency news, animals or in biology/English lit major) through the NCSU providing useful workplace information, and a zoo. But 2010 program. Bloomer and Thompson connecting employees from across the agency to our shared mission, common challenges, and she realized during her 2010 AgDiscovery both now urge students at their former high significant accomplishments. program at Kentucky State University that schools to consider participating. “I talk about For information about contributing articles and tending to domesticated animals was “a AgDiscovery all the time,” says Bloomer. photos, please visit www.aphis.usda.gov/in- little too routine.” She found her calling on a side_aphis/. behind-the-scenes field trip to an Ohio zoo. As for Ashli Jay, things continue to go well in Ames. She has always wanted to work for page APHIS page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 veterinary services netting good health for u.s. ornamental fish

By Mike Booth Among the animals most people associate someone in Texas who wanted to ship fish area-specific aquaculture disease concerns. with agriculture, ornamental fish don’t typically to Israel.” Hartman also helped create aquaculture top the list. But, in Florida, the ornamental modules for USDA’s National Veterinary fish industry is an important economic engine Facilitating exports and inspecting imports Accreditation Program. that supplies most of the United States with are just some of Hartman’s primary duties. aquarium fish, and it has a large number of She helps exporters understand and meet Because Hartman’s office is within the international exports as well. Even in this international regulations and works with ac- University of Florida’s Tropical Aquaculture underpublicized niche market, APHIS is there credited veterinarians so they can endorse Laboratory, occasionally she can also be to protect American agriculture. export certificates. She also conducts site found behind a lectern, teaching programs visits for producers who participate voluntarily on aquaculture diseases and biosecurity to Kathleen Hartman, an aquatic epidemiologist in an APHIS program to assist exporters; the producers, veterinarians, and vet students. with APHIS’ Veterinary Services program, is program helps exporters meet the guidelines based in Ruskin, FL, and specializes in orna- for veterinary oversight that some importing “This is a unique position with plenty of opmental fish. countries require. At the port of Tampa, Hart- portunities,” Hartman said. “There are Hartman man inspects fish and shipping documents, opportunities to reach out, tell people where feels that searching for signs of spring viremia of carp the program is going, lend marketability to our every day (SVC) virus. SVC is a contagious viral disease U.S.-produced fish, and help our exporters is an that affects a number of aquatic species and, remain competitive in a global marketplace.” opportunity due to its infectious nature, must be reported to represent to the World Organization for Animal Health For more information on APHIS’ aquaculture APHIS to the public, prevent the spread of when cases are found. program, go to: www.aphis.usda.gov/ Veterinary Services’ Kathleen aquatic diseases, and support the ornamental animal_health/animal_dis_spec/ Hartman visits ornamental fish fish industry. [fish schooling] aquaculture/. l producers to help them meet “Outreach and education are important international export regulations. “The word is out that APHIS is here to help, factors in disease prevention,” Hartman and people in the industry circulate my phone said. It starts with the training she provides number. I receive phone calls from all over,” for APHIS’ aquaculture liaisons—veterinary Hartman said. “Recently, I got a call from medical officers who learn about general and

page use to display larger tuskegee image APHIS page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 acting administratorshea visits tuskegee university close kevin shea visits tuskegee university

By Gary Roush and John Scott If you ask about his recent speech and tour agriculture. Among them is the Saul T. Wilson • Much of the statistical modeling used at Tuskegee University, Acting Administrator Scholarship, whose namesake retired for the 2005 Harvard Risk Assessment Kevin Shea will readily tell you that it was a from APHIS in 1989 and is currently of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy memorable and inspiring experience—one professor emeritus at Tuskegee’s Interna- (BSE) was conducted at Tuskegee’s that reaffirms the importance of building con- tional Center for Tropical Animal Health. College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing, nections, working with underserved farmers, Wilson was instrumental in the eradication of and Allied Health, which is led by and honoring the history of those who have foot-and-mouth disease from Mexico in the Dr. Tsegaye Habtemariam. The risk made strides for disadvantaged farmers and early 1950s. assessment has been used since 2001 African-Americans. to evaluate the effects of BSE mitigations Shea also updated PAWC attendees on implemented by USDA and the Food and “We need to serve all of U.S. agriculture,” a number of the cooperative agreements Drug Administration. said Shea. “It’s important that we maintain APHIS has in place with 1890s Land Grant our relations with Tuskegee; continuing that Universities and other nonprofit groups to • Tuskegee’s College of Veterinary Medi- powerful and historic relationship benefits serve small and minority farmers and ranch- cine, Nursing, and Allied Health is the only APHIS, the university, and minority farmers.” ers in the United States. APHIS has several program in the United States where ani- cooperative agreements with Tuskegee, mal health and human health disciplines Shea traveled to Tuskegee University in including one supporting efforts related to are interlinked under one college that Alabama(back to row, address left tothe right): 70th Annual Simone Pro -Tomlinson,animal former and plant 1890 health Scholar capacity and building programmatically emphasizes the One fessional Agricultural Workers Conference current veterinary student; Dr. Saul T. Wilson,in Africa. former APHIS employee; Health: One Medicine approach. Go Outside (PAWC) on December 4. Founded in 1942, PAWC’sDr. John mission Williams, is to promote retired equal APHIS op- employee;[rich Dr. in accomplishments,Richard Fite, APHIS employee [through the lens of history] Click here to portunityworking and underequitable cooperative access to scientific agreement withpast Tuskegeeand present] University; Jessica Shea also enjoyed the opportunity to tour see larger image informationGowins, and former technology 1890 for Scholar sustainable and currentFor Shea,veterinary the trip student. to Tuskegee was also a Tuskegee’s campus, seeing the graves of and caption. development of agricultural communities and rewarding learning experience. As he visited Booker T. Washington and George Washing- natural resources. with attendees and members of the univer- ton Carver. He also visited the Tuskegee Air- (front row, left to right): Dr. Tsegaye Habtemariam, Dean of Veterinary sity community, they highlighted some of men National Historic Site. The site’s exhibits SheaMedicine spoke to Nursingthe audience and about Allied the Health; KevinTuskegee’s Shea, Actingmany accomplishments. Administrator of chronicle the exploits and achievements of AgDiscoveryAPHIS; Dr.program James at TuskegeeWebster, and Associate the Dean of Student Affairs; Dr. P. Gopal the Tuskegee Airmen, who during World War wideRedd, range Associateof scholarships Dean and of internships Research and• AdvanceTuskegee’s Studies. School of Veterinary Medicine II had to train separately from white pilots in that APHIS has in place to foster diversity has educated more than 70 percent of all order to serve their country. and attract minority students to careers in African-American veterinarians. Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 speed and cooperation combat dog fighting

By Robert Willems The dogs looked “beat-up” when they landed tion, I had a reasonable suspicion that it might Diane Tucker, a CBP officer at the Indianapolis at the Indianapolis International Airport. That’s be a dog-fighting venture.” Airport, summed it up this way: “To me, how U.S. Customs and Border Protection this proves if we work as a team with other (CBP) officials described them. Kirsten and CBP officials relayed information agencies, for the greater good, we will have to Agent Chris Golightly with USDA’s Office great results.” l The two pit bulls had just arrived on a plane of the Inspector General (OIG) in Indiana. coming from the Dominican Republic, and Golightly looked into the situation and quickly they needed veterinary care. Their injuries, discovered that the dogs had been sent to a however, kennel in Muncie, IN. He contacted Muncie tuskegee immediately Police Department personnel, who investi- aroused sus- gated the situation and determined that the Continued from page 5 picion. They animals were indeed fighting dogs. Steeped in a history that includes both appeared to the difficult and the triumphant parts of be fighting Police officers subsequently raided the our Nation’s past—Tuskegee University dogs, but CBP kennel and confiscated 25 dogs, including today is an active and thriving campus. officers were initially uncertain about what to the two from the Dominican Republic. The Yet, as Shea observes, there’s still much do or who had jurisdiction. dogs were sent to several shelters for proper care. Officers also arrested kennel owner work to do. After making a number of calls, airport officials Rahsaan Ahmad Johnson. “Tuskegee itself is very vibrant and ener- contacted APHIS’ Veterinary Services office getic,” said Shea. “But, like some other in Indianapolis and spoke with Frank Wilson, On November 5, a Circuit Court jury found rural communities, the surrounding areas the area veterinarian in charge for Indiana. Johnson guilty of 14 counts of possessing still show the strain of poverty,” he added. Realizing that this might involve an Animal an animal for use in an animal fighting contest, 1 count of promoting an animal fighting Welfare Act violation, Wilson reached out to “APHIS does well working with many contest, and 7 counts of cruelty to an animal. his colleagues in Animal Care (AC). He called stakeholder groups. But a trip like this

Rick Kirsten, an AC field supervisor, to ask for For those, like AC officials, who are involved reminds me that we need to keep push- advice. That turned out to be a wise decision. in animal welfare efforts, this case is notable ing to do a better job of reaching out to understand and serve the needs of “This didn’t smell right to CBP,” Kirsten said. for its speed and cooperation. Remarkably, disadvantaged farmers and ranchers,” “Seeing the dogs’ wounds and their condi- the initial detection, kennel raid, and arrest all took place in just 1 week. said Shea. l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 let me be clear: plain writing matters

By Beth Gaston Why is plain language important? As public • Are needed to obtain any of our benefits particular grade level; it means crafting a servants, plain language is a fundamental part or services; or document that is appropriate for the intended of every job we do. We can’t serve taxpayers • Explain how to comply with a program audience. Think about your key message— well if they don’t know what we are saying. requirement that we administer or enforce. and state it clearly. Organize your document in a logical manner and use subheadings, lists, When we write clearly, the public can more [how do I write clearly?] bullet points, and tables where it makes sense easily understand and use the information First of all, consider the audience for your to do so. we provide. And they can better follow what document and your reason for writing it. Continued on next page we ask them to do and what we require them Plain language does not mean writing to any to do.

Plain writing also makes good business sense for APHIS. If we craft clear documents, stake- top grade for usda holders submit forms with fewer errors; we have a better chance of gaining cooperation In July 2012, the Center for Plain Language Plain writing is a key part of Secretary from others; and we spend less time explain- issued the first report card for Federal Tom Vilsack’s efforts to make USDA first ing information that was unclear in the first agencies’ efforts to comply with the Plain in public service and effectiveness. His place. Ultimately, if we don’t communicate Writing Act. USDA received the highest strong support has been an important part clearly, we can’t be the premier organization grade Governmentwide for our implemen- of USDA’s plain writing success. that we want to be. tation of the Plain Writing Act. The Center for Plain Language issued the Writing clearly—at least for external audienc- “This first Plain Writing Report Card helps report card to encourage the use of plain es—is also required by law. Two years ago, ensure that government agencies are language in Government and business President Obama signed the Plain Writing Act following both the letter and the spirit of operations. One simple way to maintain of 2010 into law. The Act requires Federal the Act,” said Annetta L. Cheek, chair of our momentum with plain writing is for employees to use simple, easy to understand the Center for Plain Language. “Based on every USDA employee to ask “How’s my language in all new or substantially revised USDA’s Web site, your two reports, and writing?” when drafting, reviewing, and documents that: the very nice online training you now have, finalizing documents. l USDA seems to be doing a better job than

• Provide information about any of our ser- many other agencies.”

vices and benefits; page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [ 8 ] 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 census of agriculture: you can help spread the word

By John Scott During the next few weeks, America’s farmers For more information about the Census, stakeholders. When farmers and ranchers and ranchers will have the opportunity to make visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call participate in the Census, they help grow the a positive impact on their communities by 1-888-4AG-STAT (1-888-424-7828). future of U.S. farms, shape farm programs, taking part in USDA’s Census of Agriculture. and enhance services for themselves and And you can help by spreading the word Please help spread the word by sharing their communities. l about the Census to producers and other this information and link with producers and agency stakeholders. U.S. farmers grow more than 9 billion USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service Continued from page 7 pounds of apples. (NASS) conducts the Census of Agriculture plain writing every 5 years. It captures a complete count That’s enough for Additionally, use the active voice and say Language site. It includes: of all U.S. farms and ranches and those who 24 billion slices of WHO DID WHAT in that order. Here’s the • Links to the Plain Writing Act and operate them. apple pie. difference: “The soccer player kicked the related Executive Orders; ball” is active voice; “The ball was kicked • Guidance materials to help agencies NASS mailed out Census forms in late Decem- by the soccer player” is passive voice. comply with the law; ber 2012, and responses are due by February • Guidelines and examples for writers 4, 2013. Producers also have the option to Avoid hidden verbs. For example, use and editors; complete their forms online. “analyze” instead of “conduct an analysis.” • Information about free plain language training; and Census data is used by all those who serve Use simple terms like “start” instead of • Tips and tools related to plain language. farmers and rural communities—from Federal, “commence.” And, avoid jargon, unnec- State, and local governments to agribusi- essary technical terms, and excessive USDA Plain Language Web site—This For other interesting nesses and trade associations. Companies acronyms. site includes: statistics, click here to and cooperators can use the information to • The USDA plain writing pledge; watch NASS’ Ag Census determine the locations of facilities that serve [where can I find more resources?] • Links to the USDA Plain Writing Act video online. agricultural producers. In addition, legislators To learn more, you can visit the following Compliance Report;

often use the information when shaping farm Web sites for tips, training, and information. • Lists of useful training; and

policies and programs. And, of course, APHIS • Tools and checklists for writers can use Census data to help make informed Federal Plain Language Web site—This and reviewers. l decisions about the future of our own efforts. extensive Web site is the official Plain page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 [ 9 ] 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

use to display other aphis time capsule images use to display aphis retirees aphis time capsule aphis quietly time capsule waits close close APHIS Retirees June–September 2012

MRP Business Services APHIS Retirees Roberta Purcell Washington, D.C. October–December 2012

By John Scott There it sits—a large gray industrial-lookingPlant Protection[where to and put Quarantineit?] metal cube. The APHIS time capsule patiently Animal Care Andres AltieriAs the informationMayaguez, resource PR manager at the bides its time tucked in a corner of the agency Nancy Ellifrit Norman, OK Philip Bell APHIS libraryRaleigh, in Riverdale, NC Eileen Welch is recent library in Riverdale. the time capsule’s current host and unofficial Glenna Harloff Avon Park, FL MRP Business Services guardian. Welch has a few guesses about its APHIS commissioned the capsule in 1995Judy Larson Raleigh, NC Margaret McKinney aphis Minneapolis, MN contents but can’t remember for certain all of Christine Markham Raleigh, NC as part of the dedication ceremony for the what’s inside. Like most of the folks involved Joanne Munno Riverdale, MD Maria Sanchez Miami, FL agency’s new headquarters. It was featured with the time capsule in its early days, though, retirees during Sandrathe Sauermanshe has one clearVero memoryBeach, FLfor sure: trying to Plant Protection and Quarantine APHIS had 31 employees retire in the ceremony on figure out where to store it. Joel Aronoff Riverdale, MD SeptemberVeterinary Services Robert Baldwinthird and fourth quartersFrederick, of 2012. MD We congratulate each of them and wish 13, 1995,Michele April“I remember TerryRiverdale, Medley MD coming in and ask-Roger Buttermore Oakland, CA them all the very best. and APHISWilliam H. ingBrown, if we Jr.could Presidio, find a placeTX to keep it. Once William Carlson Claine, WA plans toEdna Gabrielthey saw howHarrisburg, big it was, theyPA knew it couldn’tBobby Lancaster Honolulu, HI open it Click here to see a full list of Robert Graybe kept in anyJefferson, of the offices,” MO said Welch. recent APHIS retirees. on April 2, 2022, to mark the agency’s Thomas Letonja Riverdale, MD Veterinary Services 50th anniversary. Harry Stowell[built to last]Ames, IA Willard Hawkins,To help you Jr. keep trackFrederick, of staff MD chang- Go Outside Gordon WarThed APHIS timeOrient capsule Point, is NYnot only large but This time capsule is no simple shoebox Hector Martinez-Rosadoes throughout the agency,Hatillo, PRwe plan to Russell White,obviously Jr. builtEagle to last. Pass, TX stuffed with leftover photos. It is a hulk of Efrain Villarrealinclude similar lists Laredo,of new retirees TX in Click to view stainless steel, about 4 feet high and 4 feetDarlene Wooden Salem, OR future issues of the newsletter. l larger images. The 4-foot stainless steel cube weighs several wide and sealed with bolts. Despite its size Wildlife Services Wildlife Serviceshundred pounds when empty. It’s airtight and and well-engineered look, it rests unnoticed waterproof. The top is gasket-sealed with a Greg Ellis Clayton, NC Dennis Slate Concord, NH by most agency employees who are likely row of bolts running along each edge. A con-Jeremiah Kaholoaa Kahului, HI unaware that we even have a time capsule. tinuous wire passes through the head of each And even for those who once knew about it, the capsule has become a distant memory. Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 ] 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 time capsule

Continued from page 9 bolt to ensure no tampering. And, a valve— apparently long enough for memories to fade When opened, however, it will provide us with affixed on top—reveals that the container and a little bit of mystery to take its place. an agency history lesson and the opportunity was pressurized with special gas to preserve to reflect on our priorities, the tools we use, its contents. So it would seem that the capsule is doing its and the ways in which we go about our work. job and successfully meeting its performance It will be interesting to see how these things Tim Roland, now director for PPQ’s Aircraft standards. For now, its purpose is simply to change—or don’t—in the face of time. l and Equipment Operations unit in Mission, TX, be forgotten. was part of the unit that built the capsule. He also sealed the capsule when he attended the building dedication in 1995. He remembers getting the request to build it from PPQ’s Sid Cousins (retired), who chaired the time cap- agency sule committee. Rethinking Stress Webinar, February calendar 12; Visit AgLearn for more information “Sid told me the particulars about the cubic or contact Todd Sazdoff by email (todd. feet they wanted, and I asked him if they [email protected]) or at (612) knew what they were asking for. He double- The FY 2013 APHIS Training and 336-3304. checked and that’s what they wanted,” Development Calendar provides Roland recalled with a laugh. updated listings for agency training march courses; the calendar includes National Women’s History Month. “Even after it was trucked to Riverdale, they dates, times, staff contact information, Watch your email for event said they didn’t think it’d be that big,” said and descriptions of targeted course- announcements. Roland, who plans on being there when the work competencies. Situational Self Leadership, March capsule is opened. 12–13, Riverdale, MD; Visit AgLearn february for more information or contact Leslie [a little bit of mystery] Black History Month. Watch your email Linneman by email (leslie.a.linneman@ So far, the capsule has been sealed for 17 for event announcements. aphis.usda.gov) or at (301) 851-2889. l years, and it will remain closed for 10 more. Not that long in the scheme of things. But page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13 14 15 16 17

manager profile with matt royer

Plant Protection and [what is your background?] velop science-based methods for survey and effort that would not have been possible were Quarantine (PPQ) I was born in York, PA, and thought for many mitigation, to implement a national survey and it not for the dedication of these teams. I am Executive Director, years that I would become a veterinarian. containment effort, and to stand up a regula- very proud of the team members and feel Field Operations During high school, I worked as a kennel boy tory response was extraordinary. Many of the privileged to have participated in this effort. and an assistant at small animal practices in people I met while serving in the program are York and for a few months in Saginaw, MI. colleagues to this day. In the home environment, I am proud of my While studying as a biology major at Penn two sons who have permanent jobs and State University, I helped in physics and cell [priorities in the coming months?] are happy. With PPQ’s reorganization plan, we will biology laboratories. I received a PhD degree [hobbies?] in plant pathology from Penn State in 1982. be consolidating the Eastern and Western Bicycling and taking hikes in the mountains After graduation, I investigated foreign plant Regions into one unit, Field Operations. As of Colorado. diseases in a containment facility and col- the executive director of Field Operations, I laborated for 6 years with foreign scientists will be responsible for daily operations. I will [favorite movie?] be learning as much as possible about PPQ working with USDA’s Agricultural Research Lord of the Rings. Service at Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD. Field Operations and helping PPQ implement a “core functional workgroup” approach to [last book read?] [how long have you been with aphis?] doing business. The Little Drummer Girl by John le Carré In 1989, I joined APHIS’ Policy and Program (dated but still a classic for the genre, from a Development staff and developed risk [accomplishment most proud of?] book swap!). analysis standards. Two years later, I In the work environment, it is leading PPQ’s accepted a position with PPQ as the chief implementation of Section 10201 of the [favorite meal?] operations officer for Biological Assessment 2008 Farm Bill. Many APHIS employees and Seafood or anything prepared well. I enjoy and Taxonomic Support. members of the National Plant Board con- trying dishes prepared with different chiles and tributed time and served on teams to design other spices. [most memorable APHIS experience?] a process that produced 1,000 projects. My most memorable experience is probably Between 2009 and 2012, these projects [guilty pleasure?] during the first few years with Karnal bunt obligated $157 million to State departments Eating pizza, ice cream, dark chocolate (I of wheat—after it was discovered in Arizona of agriculture, university cooperators, other keep a candy dish stocked in my office), or in 1996. The extreme dedication of many Federal agencies, and nonprofit and tribal anything with salt and sugar. l Federal and State employees to rapidly de- organizations. This was an extremely complex page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13 14 15 16 17 did you know

2011, with enrollment numbers for under- This trend corresponds with an overall rise ? that undergraduate Did you know graduate women growing each year. In 2011, in women farm operators. According to the women outnumber men in land-grant agricul- the number of undergraduate women enrolled 2007 Census of Agriculture, the number of ture programs? in agriculture academic areas exceeded the women farm operators increased nationally number of undergraduate men enrolled by by 19 percent—to 1,008,943—between 2002 A national study completed in 2012 of 70 more than 2,900. and 2007. l land-grant universities found that undergraduate women enrolled in agriculture programs outnumber undergraduate men by more than 2,900 students in 2011. This aphis publications audiences—whether printed as hard copy or study, conducted by the Food and published electronically—to LPA for clear- Agricultural Education Information ance and production. LPA will work with you System, explored trends in the sharing the through every step of the process in bringing gender of undergraduate students a publication from concept to fruition. enrolled in 14 agriculture academic aphis story areas at land-grant institutions from For more on APHIS’ publication process and 2004 to 2011. By Lisa Hightower key LPA contacts, please visit LPA’s recently Whether a factsheet, brochure, or updated Intranet page at http://inside. The rise in undergraduate women in flyer, publications help us share APHIS’ aphis.usda.gov/lpa/pubs/index.shtml agriculture academic areas is a relatively great story with our many customers, before initiating a project. recent phenomenon. In 2004, undergraduate stakeholders, and partners. men outnumbered undergraduate women The page contains additional links to by more than 1,400. By 2008, the number Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA) information you will find useful, including an of undergraduate women and men enrolled oversees the agency’s publication review updated factsheet on publications, LPA guid- in agriculture academic areas were roughly process to ensure that our products pres- ance for determining publication needs, de- equivalent. In 2009, undergraduate women ent accurate information clearly, engag- tailed charts on the publications process for outpaced undergraduate men by 249 stu- ingly, and concisely and meet USDA and various products, and a Government Printing dents. This increase continued in 2010 and APHIS quality standards. With that in mind, Office style quick reference guide. l refer any publication intended for external page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] 14 15 16 17 wildlife services taking a bird’s eye view Statistics show that wildlife management The researchers measured the response of take that fact and their natural anti-predator By Jordan Whitfield efforts at airports have contributed to a geese to the approach of radio-controlled behavior into account. decrease in the number of bird strikes at air- model aircraft: one that resembled a standard ports. And this is certainly good news. How- civil aircraft (approximately 9 feet in wingspan) “Because Canada geese will respond to ap- ever, other aircraft data is pointing researchers with lights on, the same aircraft with lights proaching aircraft as a potential threat, the to another growing and related challenge: the off, and another radio-controlled aircraft that theory behind how animals respond to preda- number of bird strikes occurring at or above resembled a raptor in form and paint scheme. tors is very applicable, and we can enhance 3,000 feet above the ground is increasing. this response via lighting,” said Blackwell. Each of the experiment’s aircraft—whether At this higher altitude, aircraft are generally lights on, lights off, or the predator-styled air- By combining research findings on the visual outside the immediate benefits of wildlife craft—elicited similar anti-predator responses capabilities of Canada geese with research management efforts at airports. Reducing the from the geese, suggesting that the birds about responses to approaching aircraft, the number of bird strikes at these altitudes will treated the aircraft as predators and sought scientists hope to lay the groundwork for likely require a different approach. to avoid a collision. However, one of the key collaborations with industry to develop new findings from the experiment was that the aircraft designs. These new designs could To take a closer look, a team of researchers birds responded sooner to the aircraft with prompt birds to respond sooner, providing recently decided to view the problem from a lights on. more time to avoid collisions midair. new angle—the bird’s perspective. [an important next step in research] The team plans to conduct further research [the bird’s eye view] By focusing on bird visual ecology and its with other bird species commonly involved in For their research, scientists with Wildlife influence on bird behavior, researchers are strikes to determine how they respond. Services’ National Wildlife Research Center taking an important next step in reducing bird- (NWRC) teamed up with researchers from aircraft collisions. “This is only the first step,” said Blackwell. Bird strikes have gained Indiana State University and Purdue University. “In addition to lighting, we also want to increased notice since the “Birds see so much differently than humans understand how to manipulate aircraft paint “Miracle on the Hudson,” the Using their knowledge of bird visual systems, do,” said Bradley Blackwell of the NWRC. schemes so that birds find them easier to emergency landing of US Air- the team devised an experiment that would “So we can’t translate our own perceptual detect. It’s exciting work.” l ways flight 1549 in 2009 after test the ability of Canada geese to see aircraft understanding to the problem of birds avoid- Canada geese were struck by with different lighting and paint schemes. ing aircraft.” the aircraft and ingested into Based on the team’s experiment, researchers the plane’s engines. determined that using lights to make aircraft Specifically, birds have different visual systems more visible could help reduce bird strikes. than humans, and this research is the first to page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 [ 14 ] 15 16 17

question In our last newsletter, we asked employees, workers’ compensation program “Would you recommend a Federal career to a of the family member or friend?” changes benefit day Of those who responded, here’s the percentage breakdown of how they answered.. employees and agency 21% Would you recommend a Federal I’m not sure. career to a family member or friend? The agency’s Workers’ Compensation Pro- The revised Web pages now include help- 17% gram has made recent changes to improve ful links to frequently asked questions, new its operations. Together, these improvements AgLearn training for supervisors, and ad- 62% No, I would not will benefit employees and help streamline the ditional information resources for employees Yes, I would recommend. agency’s management of claims. and supervisors.

recommend. The primary purpose of the Workers’ [other changes for the better] Several employees also offered Compensation Program is to facilitate wage APHIS’ Workers’ Compensation Program additional comments in response replacement, medical care payments, and has taken other steps as well to create a to the question. One wrote, “As a return-to-work efforts for agency employees more unified agency structure for process- second, third, and fourth career, who sustain compensable work injuries. ing and managing claims and to enhance I have found working for the Federal Government to be greatly rewarding. The ability to supervisory engagement and understanding move throughout the Government without penalty is incomparable!” Many of the recent improvements stem from of the program. [next question please] a business process improvement project conducted in 2012. The project included goals Here are few of the changes: Many people start the New Year by setting goals or making resolutions for themselves. of optimizing and streamlining the Workers’ Sometime they make resolutions focused on their personal lives or on health and fitness Compensation Program and reducing its cost. • Agency workers’ compensation coordina- goals. And, sometimes they set new goals related to work and their careers. Additional improvements are planned for 2013 tors will begin using ECOMP—the U.S. according to Tara Jones, who joined APHIS Department of Labor’s online system for Are you making a New Year’s resolution for 2013? last year as the APHIS Workers’ Compensa- processing and managing claims. This • Yes, I am making a New Year’s resolution. tion Program manager. electronic system will improve program • Yes, I am making a New Year’s resolution specifically related to work. efficiency and increase the speed of • No, I am not making a New Year’s resolution. [improving employee resources] claims processing. What is your resolution? As always, your participation is voluntary and confidential. To enhance its employee outreach, the Workers’ Compensation Program has re- • The agency’s national program manager is Share this link with your coworkers and encourage them to participate! vised its Web pages and created an employee conducting monthly conference calls with Click here to take part in the poll: Go Outside help desk that is accessible by phone (855- APHIS workers’ compensation coordinators https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/YM2K6WJ [inside] 804-7310) or by email at OWCPHelpDesk@ Continued on next page aphis.usda.gov.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 [ 15 ] 16 17 symposium highlights “native lands, native ways”

By Gail Keirn Indigenous peoples of the Pacific North- Center in Fort Collins, CO. Gossett helped For more information on the symposium or west have cared for and managed the land organize the symposium. the APHIS Native American Working Group, for thousands of years through traditional please contact Daniel Gossett by phone, (970) practices that are essential to many “The students had the chance to share 266-6284, or email at daniel.n.gossett@aphis. cultural customs and ceremonies. At this their knowledge about their native culture usda.gov. l year’s Wildlife Society Annual Conference in and to participate in discussions about wild- Portland, OR, organizers focused on Native life management, sustainability, and natural American conservation by hosting a half-day resource conservation in the Pacific North- Continued from page 14 symposium titled Native Lands, Native Ways: west,” says Gossett. Indigenous Conservation in the Northwest. workers’ Participants shared native perspectives on The symposium focused on wildlife and envi- wildlife management, tribal politics, and mod- ronmental management from an indigenous compensation ern tribal management. perspective, with an emphasis on restoring watersheds and undamming rivers in the to share the latest information and up- Alongside numerous wildlife profes- The Wildlife Society’s Native People’s Wildlife Pacific Northwest. dates related to the Workers’ Compen- sionals, 18 Native American students Management Working Group sponsored sation Program. participated in the Wildlife Society’s the symposium. And APHIS was there, too. Traditionally, indigenous communities define 2012 annual conference. APHIS’ Wildlife Services (WS) and APHIS’ Native the natural world and processes as sacred; • APHIS has developed a mandatory Wildlife Services program and the American Working Group helped coordinate for these communities, having dam-free rivers AgLearn module on workers’ compen- agency’s Native American Working the event and—along with others—provided is essential to their cultural identity, well-being, sation for managers and supervisors. Group helped fund student travel travel and registration funding for 18 Native and livelihoods. The symposium included and registration. American students to attend. presentations on the process and impact of • The agency has incorporated language undamming rivers; managing sensitive and specific to workers’ compensation “Wildlife Services continues to support Na- culturally significant wildlife species on tribal into the performance plans of APHIS tive American students interested in natural lands; monitoring fish populations; managing managers and supervisors to enhance resource management careers by providing intertribal fisheries; and understanding the engagement and accountability. l them with opportunities like this to meet and legal processes and sovereignty issues that interact with wildlife professionals,” says Dan- impact Native American communities in the iel Gossett, a supervisory biological science Pacific Northwest. technician at WS’ National Wildlife Research page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 [ 16 ] 17 volunteer spotlight danielle koski and jennifer lamoreux [employee name and program] Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH and take care of them at the show. They also Danielle Koski, Biological Science Laboratory Intl.). In 2011, Lamoreux was selected as the organize riders, volunteers, and horses to Technician, Center for Veterinary Biologics, Region 7 PATH Intl. instructor of the year. make sure everyone is safe and having fun. Ames, IA This year, they were able to help more than Koski began volunteering with One Heart in 20 riders compete in over 40 events at the Jennifer Lamoreux, Biological Science Labo- 2007 as a side-walker and horse leader. In Special Olympics. ratory Technician, National Veterinary Services 2009, she also became a NARHA-certified Laboratories, Ames, IA riding instructor. [time given] One Heart rides for 6 weeks in the spring, [volunteer organization] Both Lamoreux and Koski teach therapeutic 6 weeks in the summer, and 6 weeks in the One Heart Equestrian Therapy riding classes and volunteer in other ways, fall. During the riding sessions, Lamoreux where needed. Whether it be side-walking and Koski teach classes 3–6 hours a week Danielle Koski [organization mission] with clients during class, training therapy and volunteer where needed for an additional One Heart Equestrian Therapy offers therapy horses, entering client data into the computer, 8–12 hours a week. During the summer and to individuals demonstrating physical, feeding horses, staying in touch with volun- winter, they also give 2–6 hours a month help- cognitive, mental, or emotional limitations teers, scheduling clients for classes, or leading ing organize files and taking care of horses. and special needs. The organization makes a therapy horse during class—they do it all. equine-oriented and domestic animal-oriented They are often at the One Heart stable sweep- [organization web site] activities available in a compassionate, safe, ing aisles, mucking stalls, or simply organizing www.onehearthorses.org and professional manner. tack. In the last year, Lamoreux and Koski helped One Heart provide services for more [employee email] [volunteer activities] than 40 clients, each of whom have their own [email protected] unique challenges and goals. [email protected] l Jennifer Lamoreux Lamoreux began volunteering with One Heart in 2003 as a side-walker and horse leader. In 2005, she became a certified riding instruc- Lamoreux and Koski also volunteer by help- tor through the North American Riding for the ing One Heart clients participate in the Iowa Handicapped Association (NARHA)—now Equestrian Special Olympics. They help pack known as the Professional Association of up all the gear, trailer horses to the event,

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 [ 17 ] worktip prepare yourself for global learning

By John Scott APHIS is a global organization. Agency The site features “Learning Paths” that provide The site also includes a self-assessment employees are regularly in direct contact with detailed information about other countries tool that helps you identify your work style stakeholders and agricultural officials in other and short activities to help improve your skills preferences and compare them with the countries. Additionally, our own workforce in interacting and communicating with others preferences often found in other specific has become increasingly diverse as employ- and successfully bridge cultural differences. countries and cultures. l ees from various cultures and heritages have joined the agency.

So wouldn’t it be helpful to have a convenient and effective tool to learn about other cultures and the countries we come in contact with? art and agriculture Fortunately, we do. It’s called GlobeSmart®. competition begins GlobeSmart is an online educational tool that can help improve your ability to work Grab your sketchbook, paintbrush, or other art gear and get started. USDA has launched effectively with people from other cultures— its second annual Art & Agriculture Competition, and entries are due by March 30, 2013. whether they’re fellow APHIS employees or The competition is open to all active USDA employees, full-time or part-time, and to em- agency stakeholders. ployees on term or seasonal appointments.

APHIS has made GlobeSmart available to To enter, employees must submit both a completed entry form and photograph of the Go Outside all employees at no cost. To access the artwork being entered. Both must be submitted through the Cultural Transformation Web site, new users need only register using their site by the deadline. work email address and set up an account Click here to visit All forms of art including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, textiles, and ceramics and password. GlobeSmart®. are accepted. Artwork may be in any 2-D or 3-D fine art media (not including video

or craft kits). Each work of art must be submitted under one of 10 themed categories. The Web site offers a short introductory video explaining its features, or you can just jump in For more details and entry requirements, please visit USDA’s Art & Agriculture and explore the site’s content on your own. Competition Web pages. l

page United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Vol. 2, 2013 animal care in this issue click Animal Care: Partnership Plant Protection partnership helps Helps Make Gains and Quarantine: With Ohio Dog Breeders 1 Recycling Hurricane Tree make gains with Debris To Stop Pest Spread 9 Wildlife Services: ohio dog breeders By David Sacks On the Trail of APHIS Hosts Feral Swine 3 Stakeholder Meeting 10 Animal Care continues bolstering its efforts to AWA license, and advising the breeder of the help current USDA licensees and registrants requirements for licensing under the AWA. Veterinary Services: In Memoriam 10 better adhere to Animal Welfare Act (AWA) Good News Expected regulations and to make sure that individuals After learning about Animal Care’s efforts, the for U.S Cattle Producers 4 Manager Profile obtain an AWA license if they need one. Ohio Professional Dog Breeders Association With (OPDBA) reached out to lend a hand. OPDBA 2012 Trade Barbara In Ohio, tips from the public and a recent contacted Carolyn McKinnie, a supervisory Accomplishments Recap 5 Thompson 11 partnership with a dog breeder association animal care specialist, and offered to help get are helping program efforts on both fronts. kennels licensed. 2013 Employee Veterinary Services: Viewpoint Survey 5 Helping Pigs Take [finding unlicensed kennels] Pairing the industry group with Animal Care Wing to China 12 In January and February, Animal Care’s East- is different than the traditional model of Trade Progress in 2013 6 ern Region Office received information from Continued on next page APHIS Team Still Driving concerned citizens alleging that more than Did You Know? 7 on the Transformation 100 kennels in northeastern Ohio were selling Highway 13 puppies to pet stores without the required Recent APHIS Retirees 7 USDA license. Supporting the claims, the tip- Agency Calendar 13 sters provided health certificates and pet store Plant Protection sales records for the kennels in question. and Quarantine: Volunteer Spotlight: New Jersey Stephanie Dinh, Thomas Hall, In response, several Animal Care inspectors Wins Battle of and Robi Maple 14 began the laborious task of researching the the Beetle 8 situation. In this predominately rural area, this Question of the Day 15 meant driving to each kennel, contacting the ALB Early Detection and individual responsible for the breeding opera- Animal Care’s Carolyn McKinnie speaks with What You Can Do 8 tion, determining if the kennel required an attendees about AWA requirements.

page 1 [ 2 ] 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 gains with ohio dog breeders

Continued from page 1 enforcing AWA licensing requirements, and of Animal Care’s Eastern Region. “This will discussed the need for licensees to recognize Animal Care hopes this approach will help improve conditions for these dogs and will problems in their kennels and take immediate make inroads in Ohio’s rural communities. also allow Animal Care to reserve its scarce action. His talk was well-received. Breeders The partnership highlights the shared goal of resources for truly problematic facilities.” also stopped by the Animal Care booth to making sure that the animals receive humane ask questions throughout the seminar and care and treatment. [partnering to educate] trade show. In February, Animal Care employees again [partnering to license] partnered with OPDBA by participating in its “All in all it was a great day,” said McKinnie. Animal Care reviewed its list of kennels, annual seminar and trade show. In addition “We continue to make strides in the breeder worked through some procedural challenges, to promoting AWA licensing, the Animal Care communities in Ohio, and I’m excited about and then informed OPDBA of 40 kennels that employees used the opportunity to conduct the changes in attitudes that are occurring.” likely needed Federal licensing. With this other AWA outreach with the nearly 300 information, OPDBA is conducting meetings people who attended. Dr. Tony Forshey, State veterinarian for Ohio, and coordinating an AWA licensing drive to is also pleased with the partnership–especially make sure the kennels comply with the AWA. McKinnie was joined by her Animal Care now as the State works to develop its own Animal Care provided OPDBA with informa- colleagues Laura Blanton, Shannon Sebera, commercial dog breeding regulations. He tion and license application kits to distribute. and Jeremy Steele. They handed out license commended Animal Care for collaborating application kits and other materials, including with Ohio veterinary officials, noting in particu- As Animal Care receives license applications, information about how breeders can create lar that McKinnie sits on the State’s advisory its inspectors will conduct standard prelicense contingency plans to protect their dogs and board that is developing Ohio’s regulations. inspections to make sure that the kennels themselves during emergencies. meet the Federal standards for humane care. “This has been a great opportunity for Ohio to Kennels that pass prelicense inspections will They also featured a “data logger” display work together with USDA,” Forshey said. “As receive AWA licenses; those that do not and at their booth. Data loggers enable users to we develop our regulations, we want them to that continue to sell puppies will face possible effectively measure temperature and humidity mesh together with USDA’s.” legal scrutiny. in facilities. In Ohio, weather concerns can be an issue, especially since many kennels in the The goal on both the State and Federal side “This partnership will go a long way in reassur- Amish and Mennonite communities operate is for the breeders to give proper care to the ing the public that all commercial dog breeders without electricity. dogs. Forshey said he will continue working must meet Animal Welfare Act standards so with Animal Care to ensure that Ohio kennels that their animals receive humane care and Steele gave a presentation on Animal Care’s achieve regulatory compliance once the State treatment,” said Elizabeth Goldentyer, director compliance program, during which he regulations take effect. l page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

wildlife services on the trail of

feral swine By Carol Bannerman

When you’re fighting an invasive pest, know- as a sounder—that the outfitted swine in dense vegetation. Using an improved ing where and how to find it is an important has found. antenna-mount on the helicopter, the team part of the job. The New Mexico Cooperative could pinpoint the Judas swines’ location; Feral Hog Task Force, led by Wildlife Services WS-New Mexico has used the Judas feral then, hovering at 20–40 feet, the helicopter’s (WS), is using one technique to locate feral swine technique for 3 years in a limited way, downwash flushed the swine out. swine that takes advantage of the animals’ with one Judas sow and one to two techni- social nature. cians to locate it. Now, as an expanded effort, Other projects and studies show that, as a the ongoing pilot project can use several wildlife management method, the Judas tech- In New Mexico, feral swine populations have Judas sows outfitted with ear tag transmitters nique can substantially increase the number expanded from just 2 counties to at least 17 and has additional wildlife specialists capable of invasive animals removed, decrease the in less than 7 years. Locating these small of tracking them. Because boars remain cost of control efforts, and increase the types groups, dispersed over a 60,000 square-mile solitary in general, most Judas swine are the Continued on next page area, presents a tough challenge. With the more sociable sows, which will travel up to January 2013 release of APHIS contingency 8 kilometers to unite with a new sounder funds, WS initiated a cooperative, multiagency (swine grouping). John Scott, Editor partnership in New Mexico. The aim of the (301) 851-4068 pilot project is to eliminate feral swine from [an effective combination] [email protected] key areas of the State. An important part of A combination of Judas swine, ground staff, Photo sources: Animal Care, S. Dinh (PPQ), S. Wildlife Specialist Ron Jones runs telemetry this effort is the expanded use of the “Judas and trail cameras proved effective during a Geiser-Novotny (VS), T. Hall (WS), C. Jones, R. off a high point near Tucumcari, in eastern technique” to locate invasive feral swine. The late March aerial operation in New Mexico Maple (MRPBS), R. Santos (LPA), B. Thompson (MRP). New Mexico. This technology allows wildlife technique—so-named because of its biblical using a helicopter. personnel to check trap monitors or locate reference—uses a “betrayer” animal to locate Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving all APHIS employees by delivering agency news, Judas pigs in free-ranging groups or sounders others of its kind. “In a few days of flying, we removed 56 feral providing useful workplace information, and more efficiently. swine—around 32 percent were located with connecting employees from across the agency The Judas technique involves placing a radio the help of two Judas sows,” said WS District to our shared mission, common challenges, and significant accomplishments. transmitter on an animal and releasing it. The Supervisor Brian Archuleta. For information about contributing articles and outfitted animal seeks out others. By tracking photos, please visit: and locating the “betrayer,” biologists can During the effort, WS employees found that www.aphis.usda.gov/inside_aphis/. then euthanize the feral swine herd—known some swine would hunker down unobserved page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 veterinary services good news for u.s. cattle producers feral By Mike Booth swine APHIS’ Veterinary Services (VS) helped score United States, American beef producers and a major victory for American cattle producers businesses, and Federal and State partners Continued from page 3 at a recent meeting of the World Organization who work together to maintain a system of for Animal Health (OIE). interlocking safeguards against BSE that of terrain where individual animals are protect our public and animal health. This taken. In the final stages of eradication More than 9 years after the first cow with decision demonstrates OIE’s belief that both projects, the Judas technique can also bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) our surveillance for, and safeguards against, help find the last remaining target ani- was found in the United States, the OIE BSE are strong.” mals or confirm a project’s success. voted during its general session meeting to upgrade the U.S. risk status from “controlled” The OIE is the international body recognized WS-New Mexico is evaluating the use of to “negligible.” The May 29 announcement by the World Trade Organization for recom- radio telemetry transmitters, which cost follows the earlier recommendation made by mending science-based standards for the approximately $200 each. This technol- an OIE scientific commission to upgrade the safe trade in animals and animal products. ogy could potentially save thousands of U.S. status. OIE member nations strive to bring their dollars in States like New Mexico where own standards in line with the organization’s feral swine densities are low and scat- With the change, APHIS anticipates that we science-based international standards in order tered over a large geographic area. can overcome some of the longstanding trade to control the spread of disease and keep The Judas technique has brought barriers imposed by certain countries. trade markets open. OIE risk status recogni- success in other wildlife work as well. tion carries a great deal of weight with the “It’s taken a lot of persistence and dedication WS evaluated this method for invasive international community in negotiating trade by our technical staff to reach this point,” said nutria control in the Delmarva (see the requirements and opening new markets. VS Deputy Administrator John Clifford. Chesapeake Bay Nutria Eradication Negligible risk is the lowest risk level under the Project Web site). Additionally, the The upgraded status recognizes that there is OIE Code. Countries with this risk status have technique helped control invasive lake less threat of the disease spreading among conducted extensive surveillance and testing trout in Yellowstone National Park, and the domestic cattle herd due to USDA’s effec- in domestic cattle and have instituted all of the one researcher has suggested its use to tive surveillance and control methods. necessary mitigation measures to reduce the help eradicate Asian carp. l Following the announcement, Secretary risk for BSE exposure and spread. l Vilsack released a statement saying:

“This is a significant achievement that has

been many years in the making for the

page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

2012 trade accomplishments recap

The past few years have been the best for [highlights] farm exports in our Nation’s history. During • Establishing a pilot program that led to the 2013 employee fiscal years (FY) 2009 through 2012, U.S. resumption of log exports from Virginia producers generated more than $478 billion and South Carolina to China. This helped in agricultural exports. In 2012 alone, they preserve total U.S. log exports to China, viewpoint reached $135.8 billion—the second highest which were valued at $807.4 million in total on record. calendar year (CY) 2012. survey These export figures mark an historic eco- • Concluding negotiations that allow exports The Office of Personnel Management nomic achievement for our Nation’s farmers, to Mexico of U.S. eggs intended for (OPM) is conducting the new 2013 ranchers, and agribusiness. And, for that processing ($45 million/year) and putting Employee Viewpoint Survey (EVS) of same reason, they are notable for APHIS as poultry exports to Kuwait and Turkey Federal employees. The survey, which well. They firmly remind us of the word “ser- ($15 million/year) back on track after runs into early June, has been sent to vice” in our agency’s name and of our valuable concerns about avian influenza. randomly selected Federal employees. role in the vitality of U.S. agriculture. Working An estimated 26,000 USDA employees with producers and many other partners in During 2012, live-animal exports continued to have been asked to participate. government and industry, APHIS consistently increase. As one of many examples, exports contributes to the success of U.S. producers of live swine, poultry, and horses to China If selected, you are encouraged to and ranchers. totaled $60 million in CY 2012—nearly a take part; EVS participation is confiden- 40-percent jump over CY 2011. tial and completely voluntary. Survey In FY 2012, in cooperation with the Office of results provide valuable information Buyers from Turkey, Russia, Canada, Mexico, the U.S. Trade Representative and USDA’s and insight for Federal agencies. OPM Kazakhstan, and countries in South America

Foreign Agricultural Service, APHIS success- will provide survey results to APHIS in and the Middle East also increased their

fully negotiated and resolved 150 animal and November 2013. l imports of live cattle last year—reaching plant health issues involving U.S. agricultural exports with a total estimated market value of nearly 120,000 cattle in FY 2012—while $2 billion. new markets emerged. Turkish and Russian purchases alone during FY 2012 were valued at roughly $300 million. Continued on next page page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

2012 trade accomplishments

Continued from page 5 [keeping shipments moving] In a related development for imports of by specific diseases straight to our In FY 2012, APHIS overseas personnel suc- animals and animal products, a final rule Web site, where they can be amended cessfully secured the release of 324 detained we published last year brings lists of through a faster notice-based process shipments of U.S. agricultural products, rang- regions recognized as free of or affected instead of extended rulemaking. l ing from cherries to cotton, worth more than $41 million.

Additionally, through our export certification programs, we helped prevent such issues trade progress in 2013 from arising by ensuring U.S. agricultural products meet the health requirements of Here are some highlights so far for 2013. specific overseas markets before they arrive. • In February, Japan agreed to permit the import of U.S. beef and beef products In FY 2012, we issued more than 41,500 derived from cattle less than 30 months of age. The result: an industry-estimated export certificates for live animals and just $500 million in exports of U.S. beef to Japan in CY 2013. over 167,000 for animal-related products. Our automated Phytosanitary Certificate Issu- • In February, APHIS officials reached agreement with Iraqi officials on export certi- ance and Tracking system produced a record fication requirements for U.S. dairy cattle shipments. The annual market value is 580,000 certificates for plant-based exports. projected to be more than $60 million. [tuning our systems for speed] • In late February, the World Organization for Animal Health recommended that the United States’ risk classification for bovine spongiform encephalopathy be up- Under the agency’s business improvement ini- graded to negligible risk. If approved, the status upgrade will greatly support U.S. tiatives, we shortened the average amount of efforts to increase exports of beef and beef products. time needed to develop import-related regulations by 77 days last year. We also dramati- • In April, APHIS announced the opening of export markets to Belarus, Kazakhstan, cally decreased the time needed to complete and Russia for day-old chicks and hatching eggs, increasing U.S. exports by an risk assessments and regulatory changes for estimated $25 million a year.

imports of plants and plant products, from an

• In April, APHIS announced the arrival of the first shipment of U.S. Anjou pears average of more than 5 years per case to an to China. U.S. pears are now available for the first time to Chinese consumers. average of 597 days. That’s a reduction of USDA expects China to become one of the top five export destinations for U.S.- nearly 71 percent. grown pears within the next two seasons. l page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

use to display aphis retirees

close did you APHIS Retirees January–March 2013 know Animal Care Thomas Ellis Blue Springs, MS Rhudy Ayers Carrollton, GA Lawrence Elsken Ames, IA Donna Gatewood Ames, IA ?Kenneth Kirstein Herscherthat, IL in FY 2012 Donated leave can make a significant Did you know Doroteo Gomez Whittier, CA APHIS employees donated more than positive impact on the lives of coworkers Legislative21,400 hours and ofPublic leave under Affairs the Voluntary Lesterand Grigsbytheir families. Citrus Heights, CA recent Ellery GumbsLeave Transfer Program?Riverdale, A total MD of 1,153 Inez Hockaday Riverdale, MD agency employees donated the leave to JohnEmployees Jones, Jr. who wantSilver to participate Springs, in FL the aphis MRP assistBusiness other employees Services in need. Donaldprogram—either Lenderman as a Paoli,donor INor a recipient— Francis Keyser Martinsburg, WV Nicholasmust meet Mertes certain criteriaOklahoma to be eligible. City, OK Ad- retirees ditionally, for eligible donors, there are specific Sandra KusmaulAPHIS personnelUrbandale, also IA stepped James Mitchell Oakdale, CA up last year to help employees Reedrules Rollo, about Jr what. kindRiver of leavedale, and MD how much Anita Ridley Riverdale, MD In the first quarter of calendar year affected during Hurricane Sandy. Markcan Rose be donated. Fort Smith, AR Through an emergency leave 2013, APHIS saw 33 employees retire Henry Stratton Stockton, CA Policy and Programbank specificallyDevelopment established Eligible recipients should coordinate applica- from among its ranks. We send our Percell Taylor, III Miami, FL Phyllis Thomas in responseRiverdale, to MDthe hurricane, tions through their immediate supervisors and congratulations to each and wish them Denson Tubbs Sprott, AL agency employees donated an understand the rules about using donated all the very best as they enter their Plant Protectionadditional and Quarantine 2,310 hours of leave. Wolfleave Weber and when to apply.Fort Collins, CO post-APHIS years. Suzan Baril Berlin, VT By John Scott Click here to see a full list of recent Karen Bedigian[more aboutRiverdale, leave MD donations] WildlifeFor detailed Services information about the program APHIS retirees. Wesley DrosselmeyerThe Voluntary Inwood, Leave TransferWV Program Dennisand donatingCreel or receivingFinley leave,, OK visit the allows Federal employees to donate unused GailVoluntary Gerber Leave TransferAlbuquer Programque, NM Web To help you keep track of staff changes Veterinaryaccrued Services annual leave and restored annual Jamespages Gionfriddo. You can alsoFort contact Collins, Cindy CO Hadlich leave to other employees who need leave at (612) 336-3310 or cindy.l.hadlich@aphis. throughout the agency, we plan to Thomas Brown Port Huron, MI due to medical emergencies. usda.gov. l include similar lists of new retirees in

Kathleen Burda Springfield, IL each newsletter. l

Barbara Corso Fort Collins, CO Jose Diez Riverdale, MD page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [ 8 ] 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 plant protection and quarantine new jersey wins battle of the beetle By Rhonda Santos

After more than a decade, the State of New the town of Islip on Long Island, NY, in 2011. “We should all be proud of this—I know I’m Jersey is free of the Asian longhorned beetle An area is declared free of ALB after all the glad for PPQ and proud of all the people that (ALB). At a ceremony held on March 14, infested trees are eliminated and surveys are have worked here as a team,” said Sanchez. Federal and State agriculture officials negative for active signs of beetle activity or announced that the State’s long-running its presence. On April 5, the Canadian Food Inspection battle against the invasive insect is over. The Agency announced the successful eradication beetle was first discovered in Jersey City in “It took a real commitment by our Federal, of ALB from Canada. Eradication was recently October 2002. State and Federal officials then State, and local partners to reach eradica- announced for the New York City boroughs found trees infested with the beetle in Carteret, tion in New Jersey,” said Plant Protection and of Manhattan and Staten Island on May 14. Woodbridge, Linden, and Rahway. Quarantine’s ALB Project Manager for New Jersey, Elisandra Sanchez. Continued on next page Eradication efforts involved removing 21,981 trees from the regulated areas within Union, Middlesex, and Hudson Counties. The trees removed from Middlesex and Union Counties alone produced 15,000 tons of wood chips ALB early detection and that were converted to 18.6 million Kilowatt- (left to right) Plant Protection and Quarantine’s hours of electricity through a partnership with what you can do Vic Harabin joins Lynn Fleming (NJ Department Covanta Energy Company. This was enough Early detection is essential, and the best including national forests, State parks, and of Environmental Protection), Richard Gerbounka electricity to supply 10,300 households for line of defense is you. Just as the program neighborhood trees—are at risk. (Mayor of Linden, NJ), Madeline Flahive (Rutgers 3 months. Nearly a third of the trees lost have encourages the public to inspect their Cooperative Extension), and others during a since been replanted. Foresters replanted trees, APHIS employees are encouraged What can you do? Take 10 minutes to ceremonial tree planting. with a variety of non-host species, with to do the same. The sooner an infestation check trees in your own yard and around

each tree chosen specifically to meet the is reported, the sooner the program can your neighborhood. Look for the top two

site requirements. launch efforts to quickly contain and isolate most concerning signs—round “exit” holes an area from further destruction. Since ALB on tree trunks and branches, and the New Jersey is the second State to declare can attack trees in any State, millions of beetle itself. You can learn more at eradication from the beetle. ALB was success- acres of our Nation’s hardwoods— www.asianlonghornedbeetle.com. l fully eradicated from Illinois in 2008 and from page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 [ 9 ] 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 plant protection and quarantine recycling hurricane tree debris to stop pest spread By Rhonda Santos

When Hurricane Sandy came ashore, it took Thankfully, as part of its hurricane response, down trees in three States with established New York City began collecting all tree debris Continued from page 8 Asian longhorned beetle (ALB)-regulated at various locations around the city. The goals areas—New Jersey, New York, and Mas- were to steer its movement, to chip it, and to sachusetts. In its wake, the hurricane left an reuse the chipped material as mulch, landfill battle overwhelming amount of debris material, liter- cover, or biofuel. ally overnight. With an estimated 20,000 trees of the downed in parks and natural areas alone, APHIS’ ALB program staff in New York New York was hardest hit in terms of tree loss. worked approximately 360 staff hours on the initial regulatory response for the cleanup beetle The hurricane created more than just a efforts. Through April 30, the Plant Protection With more areas winning the fight tangled mess; it presented the Cooperative and Quarantine (PPQ) program issued 1,299 against the beetle, the ALB eradication New York ALB Eradication Program with a limited permits to move about 133,600 cubic program remains hopeful that complete significant challenge: making sure that tree yards of regulated material from New York City eradication is possible. debris was handled according to State sites to approved processing facilities outside and Federal regulations to prevent the ALB-regulated areas. In New Jersey, APHIS worked beetle’s spread. cooperatively with the New Jersey Thanks to the hard work and dedication of its Department of Agriculture and the New Plant Protection and Quarantine’s In every ALB-affected State, regulated mate- personnel, the cooperative program elimi- Jersey Department of Environmental Joe Gittleman inspects chip size rial—which includes potential host items nated the risk of the beetle’s spread to other Protection, as well as each affected with contractor. like tree debris—may not be removed from areas. The program continues working in municipality and the citizens. ALB quarantined areas unless accompanied by a partnership with State and local partners on eradication programs continue to permit authorizing that movement. the remaining hurricane debris. l operate in the States of New York, Massachusetts, and Ohio. l page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 ] 11 12 13 14 15 16 aphis hosts stakeholder meeting By Hallie Zimmers

On April 11, APHIS hosted a packed stake- clear that stakeholder feedback was the first holder meeting in Washington, D.C. About step in the process. 120 participants turned out to listen to Acting in memoriam Administrator Kevin Shea talk about the During his remarks, Shea later spoke about Since shortly before the New Year, our agency’s budget; specifically, stakeholders the current antiregulatory climate, acknowl- agency has lost several members of the were interested in hearing what recent funding edging that traditional regulatory approaches APHIS family. We will miss them all. Our cuts mean for APHIS’ programs and services can be inflexible and untimely. He noted that thoughts are with their families. and how we’re planning for the future. To view APHIS is looking at ways to be more flexible, video from the meeting, click HERE. responsive, and creative. As an example, he animal care referred to Veterinary Services’ decision to Earnest Johnson Houston, TX In addition to the stakeholders who stop rigidly focusing on State disease status Go Outside while carrying out its brucellosis and tubercu- marketing and regulatory attended the meeting in person, another programs business services 278 participants from across the country losis programs. John Capehart Riverdale, MD Click to watch joined the meeting via live Web cast. And video of the agency employees tuned in to the Web cast Additionally, Shea talked about the need for stakeholder plant protection and quarantine using viewing rooms set up in Riverdale, more public-private partnerships, and he meeting. Sherry Cornwell North Charleston, SC Raleigh, Fort Collins, Minneapolis, and Ames. pointed to the European grapevine moth eradication program as a successful example. Kerry Bryan Albuquerque, NM Willis Yamaguchi Kahului, HI To kick off the meeting, Shea spoke about Federal budget cuts, pointing out that the Following his remarks, Shea took questions veterinary services for more than an hour. Stakeholders com- agency will need to make some tough Emmanuel Mdurvwa Riverdale, MD mented on and asked about a variety of top- decisions and prioritize program activities. Maria Stephenson Newburgh, NY ics, including: pest and disease surveillance, Shea told stakeholders that, instead John Owens Richmond, VA of making those decisions in a vacuum, exports and trade facilitation, animal welfare, APHIS leadership wants stakeholder insights invasive species, and Wildlife Services’ aqua- wildlife services and perspectives. culture and aviation programs.l Clint Caskey Blair, OK Melvin Fortner Hazelton, ND He also announced the agency’s intent to Travis Tumbleson State College, PA draft a new strategic plan, and he made it page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13 14 15 16

manager profile with barbara thompson

Chief Financial Officer [what is your background?] and higher levels of management at the [hobbies?] for Marketing and I was born in Washington, D.C., but our fam- former U.S. Customs Service as APHIS I enjoy anything to do with gardening… plan- Regulatory Programs, ily moved quite a bit when I was young. My worked to implement the new agricultural ning, planting, pruning, weeding, and building MRPBS father was a Lutheran minister for a while, quarantine inspection user fees. stone walls and patios. I also enjoy practicing which included a job with Radio Voice of yoga and hiking. America. Our family lived in Africa for about [priorities in the coming months?] a year when I was 4, while Dad scouted out About a year and a half ago, APHIS switched [favorite movie?] locations for radio towers in Ethiopia. over to using the new accounting system (the It’s hard for me not to get hooked into watch- Financial Management Moderniza- ing Star Wars if I’m flipping channels and see [how long have you been with aphis?] tion Initiative, or FMMI) that the it playing. A long time! I began working for APHIS in Department had purchased to 1978. I was a cooperative education student replace the aging Foundation [last book read?] for 2 years, working a semester Financial Information System I have a long commute, then returning to school for a (FFIS). It has been a chal- so I listen to books on CDs (I semester. I enjoyed working lenging transition for our keep saying “books on tape,” so I date for APHIS and stayed on after APHIS financial and budget myself!). Last book was The Bucolic Plague I graduated from the University of folks. My priority for the rest of the year is about the trials and tribulations of two New Maryland Baltimore County. to continue to find ways to provide addi- York City dwellers who buy an old, rundown tional training and information to our users to mansion in upstate New York and become [most memorable APHIS help them be able to use FMMI more easily. goat farmers. experience?] There have been many. I would say getting [accomplishment most proud of?] [favorite meal?] the opportunity to help establish the APHIS No one accomplishment comes to mind. I’ve It is hard to pick just one. Slow-cooked beef user fee programs back in the early 1990s. very much enjoyed making a career of work- shortribs served over mashed potatoes or It was fairly early in my career, and I had the ing in APHIS. The mission is something we polenta with a hearty red wine is always good! opportunity to work with the Administrator at can all be proud of, and our employees are that time, Bob Melland. I worked closely with dedicated and are a great group of people to [guilty pleasure?] Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA) also and work with. Watching several back-to-back episodes of attended meetings with Congressional staffers What Not To Wear. l page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13 14 15 16 veterinary services helping pigs take wing to china

By Sunny Geiser-Novotny and Jack Ellithorpe Veterinary Services’ (VS) Colorado area office VS’ Colorado office worked closely with the aircraft’s ventilation unit and a delay during received a request last summer to inspect an accredited veterinarian and facility managers a layover in Anchorage, AK. VS personnel in export quarantine facility in northeastern Colo- to schedule testing and inspection of the ani- Anchorage stepped in to monitor the animals rado for the quarantine and testing of a swine mals and to coordinate the needed interna- and the aircraft’s temperature during refueling shipment bound for China. Originally, the tional health certificate. and a change of flight crew. Even with freezing swine were scheduled to leave from O’Hare temperatures, the veterinary medical officer International Airport in Chicago; however, the [barcodes and crosschecks] and a representative of the shipping firm had broker later requested approval of a tempo- The swine were identified with barcode tags to open and close the aircraft doors to main- rary export inspection facility and that Denver that were preloaded into Mobile Information tain a suitable temperature for the animals. International Airport (DIA) be approved as a Management software (MIMs) and scanned temporary port of embarkation. The broker upon final inspection; the scan crosschecked In China, the exported U.S. swine will be used cited concerns about undue stress on the the inspected swine against the test results to multiply a great-grandparent herd of about animals if they were shipped from Colorado to list and the health certificate. 1,200 animals. After approximately 4 years of Illinois and then to China. production, this herd will produce around 3 The shipment was the accredited veterinar- million commercial swine. The Chinese To help, VS jumped right in and started work- ian’s first introduction to using MIMs technol- importer valued the shipment at $1.6 million. ing with others on the pieces that needed to ogy. VS personnel in Colorado have since become together. The Colorado office inspected gun working with the veterinarian to use this “Overall, the entire process went smoothly. It and approved the proposed temporary export same technology to increase the efficiency of was an exemplary collaborative effort,” said inspection facility. Additionally, VS collaborated tuberculosis testing. VS Western Region Director Mark Davidson. with the broker, freight forwarder, airline, U.S. [flying pigs] The shipment was the first successful large Customs and Border Protection, and DIA Port In late November, VS personnel in Colorado animal export out of DIA for VS’ Colorado Aircraft personnel prepare to load Authority to approve DIA as a temporary port inspected the swine at the export inspection office. The support that the Colorado office the pig shipment bound for China. of embarkation. facility and were there for the aircraft inspec- received from area offices in Alaska, Kansas, [clean bill of health] tion, the unloading of swine from the trucks, Oklahoma, Ohio, and Illinois was vital to mak- To be eligible for export to China, swine and their loading onto the aircraft at DIA. ing the effort a success. l must undergo a barrage of tests for 7 different pathogens prior to a 30-day isolation A total of 1,051 gilts and boars departed period. Swine are then retested for 8 separate DIA in the shipment. They had an unevent- pathogens at a minimum of 15 days into the ful trip despite mechanical problems with the isolation period. page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] 14 15 16 aphis team still driving on the transformation highway

By Alisa Robinson Early in his administration, Secretary Vilsack The CARPOL team examined 20 APHIS sys- ties. A newly formed CARPOL Certifications challenged USDA to transform into a high- tems and identified more than 400 processing and Accreditations Working Group has begun performing, customer-focused organization. steps as potential candidates for streamlin- assessing business processes associated APHIS accepted the challenge wholeheart- ing. Key areas for improvement included: with certifications and accreditations. The edly; Agency Administrator Gregory Parham standardizing CARPOL data and business assessment includes looking at emerging wrote an open letter to stakeholders, rules, combining individual program functions technology to better support agency employ- acknowledging customer complaints about into broader APHIS functions, and increasing ees. The group’s efforts will ultimately ensure slow approval processes for licenses and stakeholder communication and involvement. the success of the larger CARPOL goal: help- permits. He promised that the agency ing APHIS make good on the Administrator’s would make changes to many of its long- The CARPOL team is now turning its attention promise to stakeholders. l standing processes. to APHIS certification and accreditation activi-

Following this promise, APHIS formed the Certification, Accreditation, Registration, Permitting, and Other Licensing (CARPOL) agency calendar team to analyze and document the agency’s CARPOL-related processes and recommend june july solutions that not only meet customers’ The FY 2013 APHIS Training and The management team for Marketing needs, but also improve the overall delivery of Development Calendar provides up- and Regulatory Programs Business APHIS products and services. dated info for agency training courses; Services will make a site visit to APHIS’ it includes dates, times, staff contact Minneapolis, MN, facility; July 16–18. The CARPOL team focused initially on the information, and descriptions of tar- permitting business processes in several geted coursework competencies. august National Plant Board Annual Meeting; agency units: Biotechnology Regulatory Ser- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgen- August 4–8; Louisville, KY. l vices, Plant Protection and Quarantine, and der Pride Month. Watch your email for Veterinary Services. The team worked closely event announcements. with those programs to carry out a thorough business process assessment of their current Laboratory Ergonomics Webinar; June procedures for issuing permits. 12 at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET. Register via Aglearn. page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 [ 14 ] 15 16

volunteer spotlight stephanie dinh, thomas hall, and robi maple

APHIS’ JoAnn Cruse, Stephanie Dinh, Todd [employee name and program] [time given] Felix, Thomas Hall, and Robi Maple were Stephanie Dinh; Plant Protection and Dinh averages 25 hours a month and has ac- honored last fall for their extraordinary volun- Quarantine Officer; San Diego, CA cumulated over 1,000 hours as a volunteer. teer efforts outside of the workplace. Each was a recipient of the President’s Volunteer [volunteer organization] [organization web site] Service Award. We thought it only fitting The USS Midway Museum www.midway.org that they also be featured in the newsletter’s Stephanie Dinh Volunteer Spotlight. [organization mission] [employee email] The USS Midway Museum is a living tribute [email protected] The President’s Council on Service and to the legacy of those who serve America in l l Civic Participation issues the awards to uniform. The museum serves as an historical l recognize the best in American spirit, and and educational venue for visitors of all [employee name and program] to encourage all Americans to improve their ages, including K–12 students who are Thomas Hall; Staff Wildlife Biologist; Wildlife communities through volunteer service and inspired by Midway University’s acclaimed Services; Fort Collins, CO civic participation. science, technology, engineering, and math education programs. [volunteer organization] Awards are given to individuals, families, and Hall volunteers with several organizations: groups that have demonstrated an outstand- Thomas Hall [volunteer activities] U.S. Geological Survey, Breeding Bird Survey ing level of service as measured by their Since 2010, Dinh has been a docent and (BBS); Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC); total number of hours volunteered during a an educator in the Youth Live It & Learn It Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA); and the 12-month period. education program. She also volunteers as a Poudre School District Mountain Schools. safety officer, providing safety monitoring while In recognition of their efforts, we are highlight- guests, staff, and other volunteers are onsite. [organization mission] ing Dinh, Hall, and Maple in this issue; Cruse Additionally, as an American Red Cross- The BBS is a long-term, large-scale, interna- and Felix will be featured in the next. certified health and safety instructor, Dinh tional avian monitoring program initiated in trains and certifies other museum safety team 1966 to track the status and trends of North volunteers in first aid. Continued on next page

Robi Maple page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 [ 15 ] 16 question In our last issue, we asked employees, “Are you of the making a New Year’s resolution for 2013?” volunteer spotlight Of those who responded, here’s the percentage day breakdown of their answers. stephanie dinh, thomas hall, 85% Are you making a New Year’s and robi maple I’m not making a New resolution for 2013? Continued from page 14 Year’s resolution A few employees offered comments about their resolu- American bird populations. The BBS involves every bird seen or heard in 3 minutes is re- 15% tions. One wrote about setting experienced birders that can identify birds by corded; it takes about 6 hours to complete. Yes, I’m making a goal of “Getting into shape sight and song. a New Year’s and taking better care of Hall also conducts two to three CBCs every resolution. myself.” The Audubon Society sponsors over 2,000 year and is the leader for the Fort Collins 0% Another offered a frank CBCs worldwide that take place annually from CBC. CBCs are 15-mile diameter circles I’m making a New Year’s December 14 to January 5 with tens of thou- where volunteers count birds in a 177-square- resolution related to work. opinion: “New Year’s resolutions are proven to fail. They sands of volunteers. Started in 1900, CBC is mile area. The 2012 Fort Collins CBC had 71 are often unrealistic and difficult to maintain. I find it better to have ‘life goals’ that can be now the longest running citizen science survey volunteers and counted about 40,000 birds of pursued, tweaked, and celebrated daily.” in the world; its data provides critical informa- 96 species. For Hall, the highlight was calling tion on wintering bird population trends. an Eastern Screech-Owl in to about 3 feet. Our thanks to everyone who responded to the last issue’s question Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas II is a project to Hall assists the Mountain Schools in the Pou- [next question please] collect data on the distribution, abundance, dre River Ecology Program and with wildlife APHIS program activities are diverse—covering many animal and plant health issues, habitat use, and breeding phenology of avi- classroom activities. He also participates animal welfare, biotechnology, and wildlife damage management. Our agency’s efforts fauna breeding in Colorado. Partners include in BBA efforts by recording all breeding bird reach a wide range of people, and the issues we work on appear regularly in the media. many agencies and organizations such as activity at selected sites. With this in mind, we ask: USDA’s Forest Service, Colorado Parks and How often do you encounter APHIS or agency issues during your non-work hours? Wildlife, and Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. [time given] For example, do you see our agency issues in the news you read, or do APHIS-related Hall annually averages about 50 hours for the topics come up during conversations with friends or family outside of work? Poudre School District Mountain Schools exist BBS; 60 hours for the CBCs; 25 hours for the to support and inspire every child to think, BBAs (completed 2007-2012), and 25 hours • I often encounter APHIS-related topics outside of work. learn, and care, and to graduate prepared to for Poudre School District. • I sometimes encounter APHIS-related topics outside of work. be successful in a changing world. • I almost never encounter APHIS-related topics outside of work. [organization web site] • I never encounter APHIS-related topics outside of work. [volunteer activities] www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bbs As always, your participation is voluntary and confidential. Click here to take part in Hall conducts three BBS routes each year. http://birds.audubon.org/christmas-bird- the poll: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Q9CS3V2 These are 25-mile routes with 50 stops where count page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 [ 16 ]

volunteer spotlight stephanie dinh, thomas hall, and robi maple

Continued from page 15 www.cobreedingbirdatlasii.org pack activities—such as food drives, fundrais- www.psdschools.org ing, pack meetings, the Pinewood Derby, and camping trips—for around 100 Cub Scouts. [employee email] [email protected] Pack 275 has collected clothing each year for the Rock Hill Children’s Attention Home, l l l which provides emergency shelter and nurtur- [employee name and program] ing services to abused, abandoned, and Robi Maple; Labor Relations Specialist; neglected children in South Carolina. Marketing and Regulatory Programs Business Services; Fort Mill, SC Each year, Maple’s Cub Scout pack also participates in Scouting for Food, collecting [volunteer organization] donations for a local food pantry that serves Boy Scouts of America, Palmetto Council, needy families. In 2012, the pack collected York District, Pack 275 more than 7,500 pounds of food.

[organization mission] [time given] The Boy Scouts of America mission is to serve Maple has volunteered more than 400 hours others by helping to instill values in young since becoming a leader with the Cub Scouts. people and prepare participating youth to make ethical choices during their lifetime while [organization web site] achieving their full potential. www.scouting.org www.palmettocouncil.org [volunteer activities] Maple volunteers as a den leader and cub- [employee email] master. He organizes and runs weekly meet- [email protected] l ings for his Cub Scout den and organizes United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Vol. 3, 2013 APHIS plant protection and quarantine in this issue click raising wasps

Plant Protection Did You Know? 8 to battle acp By John Scott and Quarantine: Raising Wasps to Battle ACP 1 “Chicksbook” At first glance, they look a little like party tents. [raising the numbers] App Wins But inside entomologist Dan Flores’ insectary One of the project’s ongoing challenges has People’s Choice cages, there’s no picnic going on. Instead, the been to produce enough wasps to put a dent Farewell for Award 9 tents are abuzz with thousands of tiny wasps. in the ACP numbers. Gregory Parham 3

Wildlife Services: The wasps, Tamarixia radiata, are being raised The wasps reproduce by laying eggs beneath Deadline Nears: Extension Going Green, It’s the Small as biocontrol agents to fight the Asian citrus immature ACP. They parasitize immature ACP of Benefits to Married Gay Things that Count 10 psyllid (ACP) in Texas’ Rio Grande Valley. and feed on them; this is how they reduce the and Lesbian Employees 4 Plant Protection and Quarantine’s (PPQ) psyllid’s population. To raise enough of the Manager Profile Dan Flores and others at the agency’s Mission beneficial wasps, you need to have a supply In Memoriam 4 With Gary Lab facility are targeting ACP because they of immature ACP. Washington 11 threaten U.S. citrus. ACP spread a damaging Continued on next page Legislative and Public Affairs: disease called Huanglongbing or citrus Prospects for a Farm Bill Question of the Day 12 greening disease. in 2013 5 Agency Calendar 12 Since 2007, Flores has devoted a lot of at- Personal Benefits tention to the beneficial wasps, studying their Statements Go Paperless 5 Volunteer Spotlight: impact on ACP and devising ways to raise JoAnn Cruse and more of them to help reduce ACP popula- Wildlife Services: Todd Felix 13 tions. Flores imported the first stock of wasps Using Mice to in 2009 from Pakistan and began releasing wasps in 2011. Tackle the Brown Recent APHIS Tree Snake 6 Retirees 14 Thanks to a unique collaboration with volun- Feds Feed Families 2013: teer Master Gardeners, Flores and his team PPQ’s Andrew Parker prepares to release Time is Running Out 7 have recently seen a real surge in their wasp- rearing efforts. a vial of wasps.

page APHIS page 1 [ 2 ] 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

raising wasps to battle acp

Continued from page 1 ACP naturally gather around the new shoots ing the manpower to put it into action. As it “When the cages go up, it’s like putting up a of citrus plants. Early on, Flores experi- turns out, the solution was in the region’s RV marketing billboard,” said Flores. “Neighbors mented with using greenhouse plants to rear parks, where Flores has found an amazing and other people come up and ask what it is the wasps, but the wasp yield wasn’t high source of volunteers and citrus trees. and how they can get one.” enough. The potted citrus didn’t provide enough new shoots for the ACP and Flores expects that interest will continue to wasps to thrive in larger numbers. grow and even more cages will be installed “When the cages go to produce the wasps. Plans are already So he began exploring field-rearing underway to introduce cages in neighboring methods and developed an approach counties. that uses insectary cages to boost the up, it’s like putting up number of wasps produced. Recent data seem to indicate that the rising a marketing billboard.” number of released wasps is having a posi- Here’s how it works: In residential tive effect. The combined survey data for FY neighborhoods, Flores and his team –Dan Flores 2012 and FY 2013 show that an estimated 39 of technicians trim a citrus tree, which percent of the region’s ACP were parasitized triggers new growth; lemon and lime trees The RV parks are home to many “Winter by the beneficial wasps. Estimated figures produce the most new shoots when trimmed. Texans” who have permanent homes else- representing just the last 8 to 9 months show ACP in the area are naturally drawn to the where but come to soak up the south Texas an even higher rate of 66 percent. new shoots to lay their eggs. As the imma- sun during the winter months. Among them ture ACP develop, technicians cover the tree are a fair number of Master Gardeners, who “I just saw the numbers last week. It’s very, with an insectary cage and introduce about volunteer through extension offices to provide very exciting. I’m speechless,” Flores said. l 1,000 wasps to reproduce and feed on the plant advice to members of the public. In ACP. Within 5 to 6 weeks, the caged wasps addition, many of the RV parks were formerly produce on average about 11,000 wasps per citrus groves and still have citrus trees. tree. Technicians remove the tent, and the beneficial wasps disperse and seek Last February, Flores and his team installed more ACP. their first insectary cage using volunteers. The initial plan was to install eight in the spring (Above) PPQ’s Andrew Parker covers an [finding answers in the RV park] and eight more this fall. But already, local insectary cage; (opposite), Rupert Santos After developing the field-rearing approach, interest has grown so much that they’ve examines a tented tree. the next challenge for Flores’ team was find- installed 18 cages. page APHIS page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

farewell for gregory parham

By John Scott On August 16, APHIS hosted a small “I have known some people who were highly “Greg is a true leader,” said John Clifford, gathering to honor and say farewell to former intelligent and some others who demonstrat- deputy administrator for Veterinary Services. Administrator Dr. Gregory Parham. In June, ed extraordinary character. And I have known “He has high standards and is a very Dr. Parham was officially sworn in as USDA’s others who acted with tremendous compas- thoughtful and caring leader. He encourages Assistant Secretary of Administration. sion and decency. But I have never known risk-taking and provides the support that anyone who had all of these qualities like Greg employees need to thrive.” While Administrator, his does. It was an honor and a privilege to serve leadership contributed as Greg’s associate and APHIS was lucky to During the recent gathering, APHIS unveiled greatly to APHIS accom- have his leadership,” said Shea. a portrait photograph of Dr. Parham. In his plishments and to steadying honor, the image is now displayed—along the agency during a time It’s easy to find others, too, who share with the portraits of other previous agency in which many other respect for Dr. Parham and the distinctive Administrators—in APHIS’ Washington, D.C. Federal agencies struggled. talent and bright outlook he brought to the conference room and outside of the Riverdale, Widely respected through- Administrator’s Office. MD, training suite. l out APHIS and USDA, Dr. Parham remains much “Greg has an amazing admired for his insightful ability to make his job management, keen seem easy while under- intelligence, and his open standing the intricacies and and friendly manner. challenges the rest of us face in our jobs. I feel very (Above) Dr. Gregory Parham shakes With his characteristic enthusiasm, lucky to have worked for hands with Administrator Kevin Shea at Dr. Parham embraced the agency’s mission, him and I know that each the portrait’s unveiling. (Opposite) Parham which he proudly described as noble, global, of us benefitted from his smiles as his image joins the ranks of other and mobile. leadership at APHIS,” said previous APHIS Administrators. Marilyn Holland, deputy Current Administrator Kevin Shea worked administrator for Marketing closely with Dr. Parham for years and is quick and Regulatory Programs to praise his friend and colleague. Business Services.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 deadline nears extension of benefits to married gay and lesbian employees

Following a recent Supreme Court decision, have until August 26, 2013 (i.e., 60 days from [more information and contacts] the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) June 26th date of the ruling) to make immedi- For more details, including information about has directed all Federal agencies to extend ate changes to their Federal Employee Health enrollment processes and effective dates of benefits to Federal employees and annuitants Benefits enrollment. For employees more coverage, please view the following benefits who have a legally married same-sex recently married—specifically, those married Q&A guidance document. spouse. Please be aware that the enrollment following the June 26th decision— deadline for such currently married employees the 60-day enrollment window begins on the If you have any additional questions, is fast approaching. date that the employee legally married. please contact the Benefits Specialist for your program. l With the decision, all legally married same-sex spouses are now considered eligible family members under a self-and-family-enrollment. The children of same-sex marriages will be treated just as those of opposite-sex marriages and will be eligible family members according to the same eligibility guidelines. in memoriam

Same-sex marriages are currently recognized Our agency lost several members of the veterinary services in 13 States and the District of Columbia. APHIS family from April through June Susan Vogt Fort Collins, CO Benefits coverage is available to a legally mar- of this year. We will miss them all. Our ried same-sex spouse or annuitant, regardless thoughts are with their families. wildlife services of the employee or annuitant’s current State Melvin Fortner Hazelton, ND of residency. plant protection and quarantine Travis Tumbleson State College, PA Kerry Bryan Albuquerque, NM [deadline information] USDA’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgen- der employees who are already legally married

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 legislative and public affairs prospects for a farm bill in 2013

By Abbey Fretz Every 5 years or so, Congress writes new passed 2013 Farm Bills that are of interest codification of the National Animal Health agriculture policy known as the “Farm Bill.” to the agency. These involve: a provision for Laboratory Network; and a provision making it Usually, people outside of agriculture permanent authority to annually release fund- illegal to attend an animal fighting event. don’t hear about the Farm Bill, but this ing for Section 10201 plant pest and disease year was different. After the U.S. Senate projects and to increase funding to that pro- To view the entire list of Farm Bill provisions passed its Farm Bill in June, the House of gram; a requirement that APHIS develop an that may impact APHIS, visit the Congres- Representatives voted down a bipartisan alternative certification program for trichinae; sional News page on the APHIS Portal. l committee version. [farm bill limbo] The House was able to regroup and pass its Farm Bill in July, but the prospects for a personal benefits Farm Bill in 2013 remain in limbo. The Senate bill differs from the House-passed bill, which statements go paperless means a select group of Senators and Beginning this year, your annual Please take the time to review your annual Representatives will need to work out the Personal Benefits Statement will no longer statement. It has helpful information about: differences in a conference committee. be mailed to your home. Instead, state- The agreed-upon bill must then pass the ments are now available online only. • Annual compensation full House and Senate and be signed by the • Leave balances President to become effective. However, Every year, the National Finance Center • Health and life insurance leaders in the House have not been willing to generates a Personal Benefits State- • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) begin that process. ment to provide an overview of all of your • Retirement system Federal benefits. Previously, statements • Social Security/Medicare deductions [what does this mean for APHIS?] were mailed in April; now, they are avail- • Dental and vision insurance Unlike many other USDA agencies that need able electronically through your Employee • Long-term care insurance Congress to pass a Farm Bill so they can Personal Page (EPP). • Flexible spending account continue to carry out their programs, APHIS

generally operates under permanent laws that To view this year’s statement, log in and Benefits amounts, such as retirement and

visit your MyEPP page. Your MyEPP TSP annuities and length of service dates are don’t need to be reauthorized. However, there are a number of provisions in the not-yet- page is also available through the APHIS estimates. If you are considering retirement, Portal with no additional login needed. please contact your Benefits Specialist. l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 wildlife services using mice to tackle the brown tree snake

By Scott Moore Look, up in the sky—it’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s Hawaii, the impact could be $2 billion per [the achilles heel] a…parachuting mouse? year, in addition to the damage they would Meanwhile, the WS National Wildlife Research inflict on the State’s native fauna and flora. Center has found the snakes’ Achilles heel: Over the next 16 months, up to 40,000 acetaminophen, the active ingredient in dead mice baited with acetaminophen will be [harmful stowaways] Tylenol™. In 2010, WS conducted a pilot raining down on an area of Guam around BTS were accidentally introduced to Guam project involving aerial distribution of the Andersen Air Force Base. It’s all part of after World War II, probably as stowaways toxicant in the upper forest canopy where a Wildlife Services (WS) effort to combat on U.S. military cargo ships. With no natural the snakes spend much of their time. invasive brown tree snakes (BTS) and prevent predators, BTS have become abundant, with their spread to other areas of the Pacific Rim, an estimated 20 or more per acre of jungle, To get the snakes to take their medicine, including Hawaii. among the highest snake densities ever WS puts an 80-milligram tablet inside each recorded. “There really is no other place in mouse carcass and then hand-drops the An estimated 1–2 million BTS live on the the world with a snake problem like Guam’s,” mice from a helicopter. Each mouse is fitted western Pacific island and cause significant said Daniel Vice, WS assistant State director with a biodegradable streamer designed to damage. BTS cause power outages that in Hawaii, Guam, and the Pacific Islands. snag onto branches in the dense tree canopy annually surrounding Andersen Air Force Base, a major result in WS has been conducting operations to re- cargo movement site on the northeast corner at least duce damage caused by BTS since 1993. By of the island. $1 million using dozens of personnel, canine-detector in damages teams, snake traps, and other measures, Unlike most snakes, BTS will readily eat a and lost USDA, the U.S. Departments of Defense dead mouse. A BTS that ingests a single economic and the Interior, and other State and local acetaminophen tablet will die within about 24 productivity. Additionally, the snakes have partners have removed more than 150,000 WS’ Robert Aguero removes a hours in a humane manner similar to carbon wiped out nine native bird species, five lizard BTS, preventing the snakes’ potential spread brown tree snake from a trap. monoxide poisoning. species, and two bat species on the U.S. ter- aboard aircraft or cargo departing from Guam. ritory—and led to other unwelcome ecologic As a result, no live BTS have been detected at Continued on next page changes on Guam. If the snakes reach Hawaiian ports-of-entry in nearly 20 years.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 brown tree snake

Continued from page 6

[snake mail] Though the BTS project comes in response to a specific request by cooperators and addresses a significant problem, the WS plan drew some negative attention. feds feed families 2013: An email campaign filled the inboxes of the time is running out APHIS Administrator’s office and WS officials with tens of thousands of messages. The campaign was a reminder that APHIS pro- There’s still time to help feed local fami- For a list of program contacts and other grams often operate in challenging environ- lies this summer by participating in the campaign information, visit the APHIS ments, where agency stakeholders bring 2013 Feds Feed Families campaign! Feds Feed Families SharePoint site many different perspective to our work. For information on items needed most, The campaign runs through August 28, read this guide. “I thought if there was anything that wouldn’t and Federal employees at all locations have a constituency, it would be snakes,” are invited to take part. The goal is for Since its start in 2009, the Feds Feed Administrator Kevin Shea said at an employee each employee to “strive for 25” and Families campaign has helped collect Town Hall meeting in April. donate 25 pounds of food or more. over 15 million pounds of food and non- perishable items. Last summer, Feds Feed In the emails, people expressed concerns To participate, place your donations Families collected more than 7.2 million WS’ Jacob San Nicholas places toxi- for the snakes and about the potential impact in designated collection boxes at your pounds of food, with USDA collecting the cant for brown tree snakes. on other species that might ingest the worksite. In Riverdale, boxes are located largest number of donations. This year, acetaminophen. However, studies have in the lobby and in program areas we’re counting on you to help collect shown that the plan will have minimal impact throughout the building. In the field, even more! l on other animals—in large part because the check with your local program. You can

snakes have already wiped out most of the also make donations directly to local

other species that might be at risk. food banks of your choice. To learn more about BTS, check out the program’s BTS Web pages and “Brown Tree Snake, An Invasive Reptile” factsheet. l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [ 8 ] 9 10 11 12 13 14 did you know

on 1 acre or more. For all other hous- areas will lead to more illnesses in hu- ? that raising Did you know ing types, the percentage with chickens mans, about two-thirds of respondents chickens in U.S. urban environments is ranged from 0.1 percent in New York City in Los Angeles, Miami, and New York gaining in popularity? to 1.3 percent in Miami. City and three-fourths of respondents in Denver believed that eggs from home- To better understand this growing phenome- • While less than 1 percent of house- raised chickens are better for you than non, Veterinary Services’ (VS) National Animal holds had chickens, nearly 4 percent of eggs purchased at a grocery store. Health Monitoring System conducted a study households without chickens planned to and issued its report Urban Chicken have chickens within the next 5 years, For more information and the complete study, Ownership in Four U.S. Cities. Pub- illustrating the growing acceptance of click Urban Chicken Ownership in Four lished last April, the report focuses on urban farming. U.S. Cities. l four U.S. metro areas: Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City. • Overall, about 4 out of 10 respondents were in favor of allowing chickens in Because urban chicken flocks are their communities and would not mind John Scott, Editor not part of the commercial poultry APHIS (301) 851-4068 if their neighbors owned chickens (44.4 industry, little information is available [email protected] and 39.3 percent, respectively). Denver about them. By improving our under- By John Scott had the highest percentage of respon- Photo sources: APHIS, C. Clark (WS), J. Cruse standing of urban flocks, we can be (PPQ), A. Eaglin (LPA), T. Felix (WS), D. Flores (PPQ), dents in favor of allowing chickens in the G. Keirn (LPA), USDA. better prepared for damaging disease community (62.5 percent). In each city, outbreaks, such as avian influenza or Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving younger respondents were more in favor all APHIS employees by delivering agency news, exotic Newcastle disease. of allowing chickens in their communities providing useful workplace information, and connecting employees from across the agency see the next than were older respondents. Here are a few of the study’s highlights: to our shared mission, common challenges, and page for more significant accomplishments. chicken news • Although over half of respondents (55.6 For information about contributing articles and • Overall, 0.8 percent of all households percent) believed that chickens in urban photos, please visit: owned chickens. Chickens were owned www.aphis.usda.gov/inside_aphis/. in 4.3 percent of single-family homes

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“chicksbook” app wins people’s choice award

By Natalie Loggans What do you get when you combine backyard Recognizing the NASA event as a unique [clucking call to arms] chickens with NASA, APHIS, and a team of opportunity for innovation, Terri Gallagher— APHIS submitted the proposed app project, app developers from Bulgaria? The answer: APHIS’ chief information security officer based and NASA accepted it, officially adding it to an award-winning app designed to help back- in Fort Collins, CO—contacted alumni from the list of event app challenges. By the yard poultry farmers improve the health and her APHIS leadership development group and time the event was over, 25 teams from all productivity of their flocks. requested app ideas for the event. over the world had answered the clucking call to arms with home-grown backyard In April, NASA held its International Space Larry Rawson—veterinary medical officer in poultry apps. Apps Challenge for 2013. This annual event Hawaii and fellow alum—responded, suggest- brings together international teams of volun- ing a challenge to promote bird biosecurity. During the challenge, an APHIS team of three teers to create open-source apps that address With an assist from Jennifer Bowman, who remained on call to answer questions from, specific challenges submitted by groups and works in the chief information officer’s unit in and give support to, app developers. Federal agencies. For this year’s collaborative, Fort Collins, Rawson put together the pro- 2-day long “code-a-thon,” more than 1,400 posed project’s specifications. The speci- [people’s choice award] volunteers from around the world participated, fications gave developers a basic blueprint of In the end, not only did the APHIS poultry taking on 58 different app projects that were what the app should do. challenge result in some stellar chicken apps, part of the event. but the chosen winner of the backyard poultry “Our vision was to encourage collective action challenge—an app called ChicksBook And although its availability for general to bring awareness of poultry management created by a Bulgarian team—also won the use is still pending, the award-winning delivered to any mobile device around the overall People’s Choice award for the entire more about backyard chicken app certainly captured globe,” said Gallagher. event. The award was determined by popular people’s attention. votes cast via Twitter. chicksbook “People need to know where to go and who [the chicken challenge] to contact for pertinent local information Considering the code-a-thon’s major focus By far many of the event’s app projects on poultry husbandry and health issues. on technology and outer space, it’s notable were space related, but others—such as the An app could also help tell them where to that an app assisting poultry owners on the APHIS-submitted Backyard Poultry Farmer purchase feed and supplies, as well as local project—targeted more earthly needs. ordinances on keeping poultry in an urban Continued on next page setting,” added Gallagher. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 ] 11 12 13 14 wildlife services going green, it’s the small things that count By Gail Keirn

Climate change, pollution, habitat loss…it’s $13 million and reduced their greenhouse gas easy to get discouraged when you hear about emissions by 149,000 tons. Continued from page 9 the challenging environmental issues we face today. Finding ways to prevent or reduce For its part, the NWRC Green Team these impacts on our planet can seem insur- organized and led small projects such as chicksbook mountable. But when “going green,” it’s often adding recycling bins and automatic light the little things that count. switches to offices. In addition, the team app looked at larger projects that could have Employees at APHIS’ National Wildlife Re- more significant impact. practical matters of managing and search Center (NWRC) in Fort Collins, CO, are caring for their birds garnered so much doing their part to make the little things add One such project has saved the Federal attention and so many votes. up for positive change. NWRC employees government $50,000 in annual utility costs have established their own “Green Team” and reduced NWRC’s annual carbon dioxide “When our team heard that the aimed at making the workplace more energy emissions by more than 450,000 pounds. People’s Choice award went to an app efficient and environmentally sustainable. Through what has been dubbed the “Boiler answering our backyard poultry chal- Tie-In Project,” NWRC put a steam line con- lenge, we felt like we really accom- The Green Team has also joined forces with nection between two adjoining buildings on plished our goal of promoting agricul- By adding a new steam line connection others in the local community and is a proud its 43-acre campus. The new connection tural awareness,” said Gallagher. between buildings, the NWRC Green member of the City of Fort Collins’ Climate- increases energy efficiency by allowing an Team reduced facility carbon dioxide Wise program. The ClimateWise program’s underutilized boiler to be used by both build- While APHIS has no control over future emissions by more than 450,000 goal is to make Fort Collins a world-class ings. The boiler provides steam for laboratory development and marketing of the app, pounds annually. Green Team members community through climate protection, washing systems and autoclaves. keep a bird’s eye view on your app (clockwise): Melissa Warrick, Charlie environmental stewardship, and economic stores. Chicksbook just might come Brocious, Steve Greiner, and vitality. In 2011 alone, the conservation efforts “The boiler project has been a huge suc- clucking to a smart phone near you. l Jon Schneider. of ClimateWise members saved more than cess,” said Melissa Warrick, NWRC’s facility

Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13 14

manager profile with gary washington

APHIS Chief Information Officer [what is your background?] [accomplishment most proud of?] Marketing and Regulatory I grew up in Washington, D.C. I served in the No one accomplishment outshines the other. Continued from page 10 Programs Business Services military for 10 years with the U.S. Air Force Leading with integrity and commitment and and spent 4 years in Europe. After leaving being a good person. the military, I earned a bachelor’s degree going in Business Administration from Strayer [hobbies?] University and did some graduate work at I love ballroom dancing and participating in the University of Maryland. I have 29 years of the competitions. I love to go to the gym. I green experience in information technology with enjoy philosophy and the game of chess. the military, private sector, and Federal operations specialist and Green Team government—including my work at the [favorite movie?] member. “It’s resulted in a 24-percent Office of Management and Budget that I Gladiator. annual reduction in energy use at the enjoyed as well. NWRC facility. Given our success [last book read?] with this project, I know the Green [how long have you been with aphis?] The Leadership Muse by Team is eager to find other innova- I’ve been with APHIS for 5 months. Linda Cureton. tive ways to promote environmental stewardship.” [most memorable [favorite meal?] My favorite meal is a bone-in rib eye steak APHIS experience?] To some, these changes may seem with baked potato and broccoli. Since I’m new to APHIS, my most small. But, if others join in the effort memorable experience has been simply [guilty pleasure?] and look for similar opportunities arriving here as the chief information officer. for improvement, our environmental No guilty pleasures. I like walking my dog. I I look forward to having many memorable future could be a whole lot brighter. enjoy being a good husband, being helpful to experiences here. To learn more, please contact Steve other people, and being a good person. I also Greiner, chair of the NWRC Green enjoy and cherish spending time alone. And, I [priorities in the coming months?] Team at steven.j.greiner@aphis. like good wine. l Ensuring APHIS information technology usda.gov. l continues to support the APHIS mission and reaches its full potential and scope. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13 14

question In our last issue, we asked employees, “How often agency calendar do you encounter APHIS or agency issues during of the your non-work hours?” Here’s the percentage breakdown of the answers september october National Hispanic Heritage Month. Watch your National Disability Employment Awareness day we received. email for event announcements. Month. Watch your email for event How often do you encounter announcements. APHIS or agency issues 15.8% FY 2013 APHIS Training and Development during your non-work hours? I almost never encounter Calendar provides updated listings Writing Up! followup course to Introduction for agency training courses; the calendar to Plain Language; October 1 at 9:00 a.m. APHIS-related topics includes dates, times, staff contact (ET); Riverdale, MD; register via AgLearn; con- outside of work 63.2% information, and descriptions of targeted tact Marilyn Miller at marilyn.s.miller@aphis. 10.5% coursework competencies. usda.gov for more information. I sometimes I never encounter encounter APHIS- — Workplace Networking Webinar; Sep- PPQ Employee Development Toolkit (EDT) APHIS-related topics tember 10, with 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. will be available beginning October 1 on related topics outside outside of work of work 10.5% (ET) start times; register via AgLearn; contact PPQ’s Professional Development Center’s I often encounter Tanya Briscoe at [email protected]. Intranet site. The EDT will help PPQ employ- APHIS-related topics gov for more information. ees navigate the individual development plan (IDP) process. Contact Todd Dutton at (240) outside of work Is This Safe to Lift? (Manual Materials 529-0272 or [email protected] for Handling) Webinar; September 11, with One commenter added: “APHIS is everywhere. Seriously. It’s one of the fun things about more information. 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. (ET) start times; register working here—you can see what we’re doing in the world around us.” via AgLearn; contact Ginger Dorsey Deadline for establishing FY 2014 perfor- Our thanks to everyone who responded to the last issue’s question. at [email protected] for mance plans is October 30. [next question please] more information. november As we near September 30th and the end of the FY 2013 performance cycle, agency Tribal Consultation Training Webinar; National American Indian/Alaska Native supervisors and employees alike will soon be thinking about their upcoming introductory course; September 17 from 1:00 Heritage Month. Watch your email for performance appraisals. p.m. to 5:00 pm (ET); register via AgLearn. event announcements.

Some employees look forward to annual performance appraisals and enjoy receiving Veterinary Services’ Professional Development Deadline for submitting FY 2013 performance feedback from supervisors about their work. Others are more neutral or don’t look for- Staff posts an updated training calendar ratings to Human Resources is November 15. ward to them at all. that features upcoming VS training opportuni- Annual leave use/lose reminder: Annual ties and points of contact. Do you look forward to annual performance appraisals? leave subject to possible restoration must be • Yes, I look forward to performance appraisals. General Use Pesticide Workshop; Septem- scheduled either in writing or via WebTA by • I feel neutral about performance appraisals. ber 25–26; PPQ Professional Development the close of pay period 23, which ends on • No, I don’t look forward to performance appraisals. Center, Frederick, MD; contact Rick Etzel November 30, 2013. For more information, at (240) 529-0264 or richard.w.etzel@aphis. contact Nella Roberts at (301) 851-2910. As always, your participation is voluntary and confidential. usda.gov for more information. Benefits Open Season runs from November Share this link with your coworkers and encourage them to participate! Click here to FY 2013 performance cycle ends 11, 2013, to December 9, 2013. l take part in the poll: www.surveymonkey.com/s/HFXTQNP September 30. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] 14 volunteer spotlight joann cruse and todd felix In this issue, we follow up on our previous visits and, last year, hosted a German [organization mission] spotlight, completing our feature on APHIS “daughter” for half of the school year. CMC’s mission is to connect people with employees who earned the President’s Volun- Additionally, Cruse has played roles in theater the Colorado mountain experience. CMC teer Service Award last fall. productions—Heidi and Wilhelm Tell—related is the premier membership organization to her Swiss heritage. Please join us in congratulating Plant Protec- providing human-powered mountain tion and Quarantine’s (PPQ) JoAnn Cruse [time given] adventures that are safe, enjoyable, and and Wildlife Services’ (WS) Todd Felix. Both Cruse volunteered 60 hours for her church environmentally responsible. were honored for their extraordinary volunteer mission trip, 185 hours for the German The mission of the American Lung Associa- efforts outside of the workplace. exchange program, 137 hours for church tion is to save lives by improving lung health [employee name and program] activities, and 125 hours to ethnic theater and preventing lung disease. Each year, the productions, the food pantry, Girl Scouts, and JoAnn Cruse; State Plant Health Director; Colorado chapter runs a week-long summer school organizations. PPQ; Madison, WI camp—called “Champ Camp”—for children ages 7–14 with asthma. [volunteer organization] [organization web sites] www.goethe.de/ins/us/lp/prj/gapp/ JoAnn Cruse Zwingli United Church of Christ and the [volunteer activities] enindex.htm German-American Partnership Program As a Certified Climbing Guide (Certified by the American Mountain Guides Association), Felix [volunteer activities] http://personalpages.tds.net/~zwingli/ index.html uses his knowledge and expertise to teach Cruse volunteers in a number of ways in her other CMC members to safely enjoy rock and community, through her church, and with www.swisstown.com/festivals ice climbing. Felix serves as the Chair of the local Swiss heritage activities. In 2011, she [employee email] technical climbing section, where he teaches participated in a week-long mission trip to [email protected] and oversees all rock and ice climbing Tennessee, where she helped repair a home courses for the Denver group of the CMC; he l l damaged by flood. She also teaches Sunday l instructs more than 100 students each year. school and is a member of the chime choir [employee name and program] and senior vocal choir. In her community, An asthmatic himself, Felix appreciates the Todd Felix; Wildlife Biologist; WS; she volunteers at a food pantry and as a Girl opportunity to show kids that they need not Lakewood, CO Scout leader. be limited by asthma; they can still engage [volunteer organization] the outdoors and be extremely active. Cruse and her family participate as a host Todd Felix The Colorado Mountain Club (CMC) and the family through a German student exchange Continued on next page American Lung Association in Colorado program. They have hosted students for short page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 [ 14 ] recent aphis Continued from page 13 retirees volunteer spotlight joann cruse In the second quarter of calendar year 2013, Kevin Picha Fort Collins, CO and todd felix APHIS had 36 employees retire from among James Stewart Wendell, NC its ranks. We wish them all the very best as Rosindo Tejada Honolulu, HI Each year, Felix organizes a group of they enter their post-APHIS years. 10–20 volunteers to provide 75–100 Veterinary Services kids with a rock climbing experience April–June 2013 Robert Best Ames, IA at Champ Camp. The campers learn Mary Bjornsen Fort Collins, CO how to manage their asthma at Champ Animal Care Robert Breitag West Bend, WI Camp, and they love the rock climbing. Lynn Bourgeois Raceland, LA Terry Fultz Ames, IA [time given] Warren Striplin Gilbert, AZ Irene Hess Fort Collins, CO Felix gives more than 300 hours of his Theresa Houlihan East Lansing, MI time each year to the CMC. For the International Services Susan Johnston Fort Collins, CO American Lung Association’s Champ Gary Greene Guatemala—GT Kami Lancaster East Lansing, MI Camp—a once-a-year, week-long Alan Palen Newburgh, NY event—Felix takes the whole week off MRP Business Services James Provo Greensboro, NC work to provide 40+ hours of service Barbara Lutz Minneapolis, MN Judith Rodriguez Fort Collins, CO during camp week. Before camp, he Daniel Reid Tulsa, OK Joan Sawicki Orient Point, NY also spends many hours organizing a Dean Stevens, Jr. Ames, IA large group of camp volunteers. Plant Protection and Quarantine April Wells Riverdale, MD Betty Bryant Raleigh, NC John Wilcox Shelbina, MO [organization web site] Susan Doerfler McAllen, TX www.cmc.org Mary Douglass North Charleston, Wildlife Services www.lung.org/associations/states/ To help you keep track of staff SC Judy Cogburn Port Allen, LA colorado/events-programs/champ- changes throughout the agency, Victor Harabin Raleigh, NC Jeffrey Green Fort Collins, CO camp.html we plan to include similar lists of John Jensen Cocoa, FL Marie Hatter Fort Collins, CO new retirees in each newsletter. Bruce Lewke The Hague—NL Philip Robinson Oklahoma City, OK [employee email] Jacquelyn MacCagnan Fort Collins, CO Willie Tradewell Jena, LA l [email protected] l James Petit De Mange Frederick, MD

page United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Vol. 4, 2013 APHIS wildlife services in this issue click keeping ground Wildlife Services: Agency Calendar 10 squirrels from Keeping Ground Squirrels from Missile Silos 1 Manager Profile missile silos By Scott Moore With Jacek Administrator Taniewski 11 Shea: Engaging with Employees 3 Keeping Employees Build a better mousetrap, the saying goes, under the fences surrounding hundreds of Safe and Trade Moving and the world will beat a path to your door. underground silos that house Minuteman III Recent APHIS Retirees 3 in Mexico 12 And anyone trying to prevent rodent damage intercontinental ballistic missiles. In addition to may soon beat a path to Gary Witmer’s door. setting off security sensors, the ground squir- Alternative Strategies Showing Volunteer Spotlight: rels have burrowed under foundations, under- Results in Animal Care 4 Mary Stephens 13 Witmer is a wildlife research biologist and mined road beds, and gnawed on cables. project leader at the National Wildlife Re- Veterinary Services: Question of the Day 14 search Center (NWRC). In his 22 years at Witmer, Wildlife Services’ (WS) Rachael Clean-Up Crews Get Busy 5 APHIS, he has worked on an array of projects Moulton, and former colleague Jenna Swartz designed to minimize damage to forestry and Work Tip: Updating Your agriculture, with a recent focus on native and Continued on next page Julie Cooper: Guiding Contact Information 14 Employees in the Right invasive rodent species. He has designed ro- Direction 7 dent management strategies in Cuba, Kenya, Plant Protection and New Zealand, Russia, and the United States Quarantine: POP Stops Touring Plum Island 7 and participated in invasive rodent eradica- Trouble Before it Begins 15 tions in the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific. Claire Franklin: Did You Know? 8 Entering His most recent work—which attracted the New Benefits attention of the Smithsonian magazine blog—

Territory 16 involves the protection of nuclear missile silos In Memoriam 8 in Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming from Employees Earn the damaging actions of Richardson’s ground WS scientists are studying Richardson’s APHIS Capacity Building Excellence Award 17 squirrels. The foot-long rodents have tunneled ground squirrels to prevent damage at U.S. Triumphs in Gambia, Senegal 9 extensively throughout the prairie States—and missile sites. page APHIS page 1 [ 2 ] 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 ground squirrels

Continued from page 1 have been involved in this project for about 3 trenches. “The squirrels aren’t comfortable years. To figure out a solution for their military walking on pea gravel, because it gives way, stakeholders, the WS team first had to un- and they also can’t burrow into it because it derstand the behavior of their adversaries. At keeps caving in,” Witmer said. deactivated launch and missile alert facilities in Montana, the researchers observed ground Above ground, the squirrels also easily squirrel colonies, excavated their burrows, defeated the first few barrier attempts. The re- and studied the animals’ behavior. searchers eventually found that polycarbonate plastic proved too slippery for the rodents to

“I’ve always been interested in biology,” says scale. The clear sheets also adhere to military

Witmer. “I like the applied part of what we do. security requirements that any above-ground Talk to a CFC I’m customer-oriented. I like helping stake- barrier be transparent. holders solve problems.” keyworker today! In November, Witmer began testing a com- WS captured dozens of the rodents and took bination of the most successful barriers at a them to NWRC headquarters in Fort Collins, missile silo mockup located on Malmstrom Air John Scott, Editor CO. There, in a dirt-filled lab, Witmer’s team Force Base in Montana. He is also hoping to APHIS (301) 851-4068 challenged the squirrels’ ability to get over, test the effectiveness of a novel, rodenticide [email protected]

under, or through various barriers to reach a bait station developed by research colleagues Photo sources: APHIS, J. Amend (VS), E. Clark food reward. Richardson’s ground squirrels in New Zealand. (VS), A. Eaglin (LPA), C. Fall (IS), C. Franklin (PPQ), are omnivores, but Witmer says they seemed K. Law (PPQ), K. Miller (MRPBS), National Wildlife Research Center (WS), M. Palm (PPQ), M. Stephens especially motivated by peanut butter, oat- “It’s tough to keep rodents out of anything,” (VS), USDA, Veterinary Services. Click to view an APHIS meal, cantaloupe, apples, and cheese. Witmer says, noting that an effective barrier video on YouTube about Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving has “got to be very well built, because [other- all APHIS employees by delivering agency news, Witmer’s research. The researchers’ first barriers failed the wise] they will figure out a way to beat it.” providing useful workplace information, and squirrel-proof test. Below ground, the squirrels connecting employees from across the agency to our shared mission, common challenges, and used their claws and teeth to tear through Click HERE to view an APHIS video on significant accomplishments. fabric similar to steel wool, and they squeezed YouTube about Witmer’s research. l For information about contributing articles and through metal chain-link fencing with 1-inch photos, please visit: mesh. Eventually, Witmer achieved success www.aphis.usda.gov/inside_aphis/. with buried metal sheets and gravel-filled

page APHIS page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 administrator shea engaging with employees By John Scott Over the past several months, Administrator his replies from the perspective of his position With 2014 just around the corner, he is Kevin Shea has been meeting with employees as Administrator,” added Hashimoto. planning additional visits to regional and field from across agency programs to hear first- locations in the coming year. Shea plans hand about their work and their challenges. In addition to these forums, Shea continues to keep listening to employees and learn- to reach out and listen to employees through ing how he can support them to ensure that Since his appointment as Administrator in the APHIS portal. As he posts new blogs APHIS thrives. l June, Shea has engaged in a series of events and audio messages, he routinely checks out with employees. These include town hall incoming feedback and comments. meetings, field site visits, and small group listening sessions—both in person and by videoconference. recent aphis retirees To date, Shea has traveled to Har- In the third quarter of calendar year 2013, APHIS had 17 employees retire. We send our risburg, PA; Laredo, TX; Minneapolis, congratulations to each and wish them all the very best. MN; Plum Island, NY; and Raleigh, NC. Using videoconference, he also sat down with employees in both July–September 2013 Veterinary Services Honolulu and Maui, HI. Animal Care Mark Carroll Cynthiana, KY Michael Greenlee Austin, TX Randall Ridenour Yakima, WA “We had a cross section of em- Herman Morgan, Jr. Rayne, LA

ployees participating—intermittent International Services Leslie Personett Maryland, NY employees, permanent part timers, David Warner Raleigh, NC Yvette Perez Marcano Buenos Aires, full-time technicians, officers, Argentina Administrator Shea visits with employees supervisors, and myself,” said Plant Protec- Wildlife Services

in Laredo, TX. Shown here (left to right): tion and Quarantine’s Hawaii Port Director Plant Protection and Quarantine Diane Benfiet Bismarck, ND Gerardo Gonzalez, Kevin Shea, Jo-Emma Noel Hashimoto, who participated in an Kathleen Fagerstone Fort Collins, CO Joan Grafton Sanford, FL Ortiz, Gabriel Rosales, and Eduardo Salinas. August videoconference. Albert Little La Grange, NC Pamela Meek Raleigh, NC Carla Oswalt Jackson, TN Richard Miller Queens, NY “We had a chance to speak and interact Kelly Parker Caldwell, ID David Thornton Lanai City, HI with Kevin which was great! And it was very James Schmidt, II Dragoon, AZ l interesting, engaging, and informative to hear page APHIS page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 alternative strategies showing results in animal care

By Christa Anderson “Our best ideas come from the field,” says pliance specialist reviews the facility’s 3-year In yet another example, a facility was identified Animal Care (AC) Regional Enforcement and history, and reaches out to explain CCAP and for the pilot project because its compliance Compliance Specialist Laura Blanton. ask if the facility would like to participate in the had steadily declined over several years. A site educational program. If so, the facility’s regular visit revealed a basic lack of understanding In this case, the idea Blanton is talking about inspector and a compliance specialist visit and among the owner, staff, and volunteers about is an innovative pilot project called Compre- spend time going over educational materials. licensure expectations. AC’s home inspector hensive Compliance Analysis and Planning and compliance specialist addressed this in creating (CCAP). It’s proving to be a win-win-win for all Next, they do a “walk-through” that serves a group setting, and the facility developed a involved—yielding benefits for Animal Welfare as an educational moment. AC personnel self-inspection plan that now involves a volun- non-regulatory Act (AWA) regulated animals, their owners, and facility operators discuss identified prob- teer conducting monthly inspections not only solutions and AC inspectors alike. lems and ask facility owners how they could to identify noncompliances but develop ways not only solve them, but maintain compliance to correct them. Animal Care’s (AC) Comprehensive The project grew out of field inspectors tell- long term. Compliance Analysis and Planning ing AC’s Compliance Team that some AWA The result? The facility has now undergone (CCAP) pilot project is tapping the licensees who have been continually cited AC’s questions during CCAP site visits tend two routine AWA inspections with AC identify- benefits of non-regulatory solutions for noncompliances would be receptive to to be open-ended. As Compliance Specialist ing no noncompliances. to improve licensee compliance. participating in educational meetings— Jeremy Steele explains, no solution is one- Using educational outreach, AC is meaning collaborative sessions designed to size fits all. “The point is for facilities to come [solutions, results, and efficiency] helping licensees guide themselves share information and discuss how to trouble- up with solutions that will work long term,” Under the CCAP pilot project, facilities are back into compliance with the Animal shoot problems. says Steele. tailoring their own solutions, regulated animals Welfare Act. are receiving improved treatment, and AC’s For AC, the project is about providing [signs of success] inspection process is gaining efficiency. AC’s six-member Compliance Team educational outreach that goes well Since CCAP’s launch in May 2013, there developed the CCAP pilot project. AC beyond simply citing noncompliant items have been promising signs of success. One “We can tell (facilities) time and again what formed the team in 2012 specifically on an inspection report. facility’s citations for noncompliance dropped they need to fix, but if we can get them to do to identify creative strategies to meet from 11 to 1 after participating in CCAP, and program goals. l [how it works] another went from 13 to 0. Continued on next page CCAP works like this: after AC personnel identify a potential candidate, an agency com- page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 veterinary services clean-up crews get busy

By John Scott Continued from page 4 For many people, a trip to the Florida Keys After closing, the 16-acre site remained means clear water, relaxing beaches, and mostly untended as APHIS and Navy brilliant sunsets. But for the crews of Veteri- officials intermittently discussed its strategies nary Services (VS) employees who traveled maintenance needs. to Florida to clean up a long-retired animal import center, the Keys meant hard work, [rolling up the sleeves] showing hand tools, and sore muscles. Over the years, vegetation gradually overtook the grounds, and fences and structures fell results This past spring, two separate VS crews each into further disrepair. Vandals, wildlife, and that on their own, it immediately completed 2-week work rotations reclaim- weather compounded the damage. Early bid impacts animal welfare and our bottom ing the former Harry S Truman Animal Import estimates for grounds clean-up alone came in line,” said Steele. Center (HSTAIC) from overgrown vegetation at more than $320,000. Recent bids obtained and years of damage. by the Navy doubled that amount. But even with the successes so far, AC is clear on the point that CCAP doesn’t VS closed the doors on the Harry S Truman With the situation worsening, VS manage- replace enforcement. Blanton sees it as a Animal Import Center in 1999, retiring the ment decided to form a plan and act. To save support function of the inspection process. facility after 20 years of service in protect- money and return the closed facility to a more When compliance specialists reach out ing U.S. animal health. Located on Fleming secure and maintained condition, the program to potential participants, they make them Key—adjacent to Key West—the center had chose to roll up its sleeves and do the clean- aware that if AC personnel notice a direct been an active 80,000 square-foot quarantine up itself using work crews of VS employees. noncompliance—something that poses an (Top to bottom/ Left to right) Randy facility leased from the Navy. immediate threat to an animal’s welfare— Ellzey, Cynthia Morales, Jack Shere, With its goals of keeping the project cost- the visit reverts to a traditional inspection. Matt Shere, Susan Stromback, Beth At the time it closed, it was in need of costly effective and safe, VS had to carefully manage Wittenbrader, Joe Woltanski, J.J. repairs, and its value as a worksite had been many logistical details. After soliciting and Even so, as the AC Compliance Team

Haney, Phil Marriott, Jeb Boyd, supplanted by newer animal import centers selecting volunteers, the program first ensured reaches out to more facilities, they’re find-

Billie Mack, Dallas Meek, and Angie located closer to international shipping ports that employees were properly prepared and ing that many are receptive to the pro- Roering. Other team members not and airports. trained to safely handle tools and materials. gram’s new outreach effort, especially since shown here are Steve Jenkins and word about its success with other licensees Leslie Chandler. Continued on next page is beginning to spread. l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 crews get busy

Continued from page 5

For the project, employees used hand tools, generators and incinerators, including properly U.S. military personnel from the Navy, Army, chainsaws, chippers, and other power equip- disposing of operating fluids and batteries. To and Coast Guard provided assistance as ment. Each crew included a trained safety offi- date, clean-up crews have filled 30 dumpsters well. The Naval Air Station–Key West helped cer and was well-supplied with the necessary with debris. coordinate accommodations for VS crews safety equipment, such at nearly a quarter of the price compared to as eye and ear protec- “It was tough, tough work,” said Dallas Meek, other local rates. The Coast Guard made din- tion, foot gear, hard hats, VS’ team leader for the first crew onsite. “We ing facilities available. And, the Army Special and gloves. had the highest temperatures they’ve had that Forces Underwater Operations School located time of year since the 1800s…Our crews re- nearby provided water and opened its mess Additionally, both ally stepped up and worked hard,” said Meek. hall to VS work crew members for lunches. crews included an employee certified as a [stretching the dollars] [making a good impression] pesticide applicator. Throughout the project, VS has worked to “Our crews were all about getting the job stretch dollars as much as possible and to done and everyone pulled their weight. It was The first crew began maximize the agency’s savings. Based on cur- an impressive group,” said Melburn Stephens, its rotation on April 15, rent estimates, the program anticipates that it VS’ team leader during the second rotation. and the second crew will save about half of what it would have cost Stephens was pleased by their progress, and followed with another if they had used outside contractors. apparently the crews made an impression on 2-week shift beginning others as well. (Left to right) Dan Newsom, Mel Stephens, April 29. Two additional crews are tentatively To minimize costs, VS used rental equipment Chip Ridky, Able Perez, Paul Smiley, Casey scheduled to complete overlapping rotations and borrowed tools from other APHIS work- “One of the best compliments came from Mitchell, Patty Fox, Andy Esparza, Jennifer this January. sites in Florida. They also limited the purchase the Commander of the Naval Station,” said Reynolds, Heather Bissette, Randy Snyder, of equipment to smaller items—like chainsaws Stephens. “He saw all we got done and Barry Bell, Berto Lopez, Manny Gonzalez, Among other things, crews tackled clearing and shears—that will be later redistributed to made a point of telling us, ‘You all did a A.C. Welsch. Other team members not vegetation, repairing fences, and securing other agency sites. good job here.’” l shown here are Carla Perry Harbour and door and window access points. They also Virginia Rodriguez. decommissioned larger equipment, such as

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

julie cooper: guiding employees

in the right direction By Mandi Frederick

When Julie Cooper began in her role as surance beneficiaries and helped others who can’t be used to meet their needs or if Marketing and Regulatory Programs Busi- were struggling with new automated systems. they weren’t provided an appropriate ness Services’ (MRPBS) Ombudsman, the alternative solution. position was brand new to APHIS. Since Employees can also contact Cooper if they then, Cooper has helped many APHIS are dissatisfied with the service received from Employees needing assistance can reach employees navigate through MRPBS when MRPBS; this includes instances when they Cooper by phone at (301) 851-2873 or e-mail they’ve needed assistance with administra- haven’t received a reasonable explanation at [email protected] tive issues. about why a certain process or procedure

While employees should first use established procedures and work through their regular service providers—such as touring plum island their contacts in human resources, financial management, and administrative services— In September, Administrator Kevin Shea and discussed the Center’s coursework and they can turn to Cooper in instances when traveled to Plum Island Animal Disease operations. Below, Torres explains a wall additional assistance working with MRPBS Center to tour the facility and meet with chart showing clinical signs of African swine is needed. international veterinarians participating in fever and classical swine fever. l animal disease training. Cooper often assists employees in locating the best point of contact to As part of its international capacity- address their issue. building efforts, APHIS hosts veterinary officials from other countries at the “Sometimes employees just don’t know Center. Peter Fernandez (left), Interna- where to go for assistance. While I don’t tional Services’ Regional Director for

have all the answers, I can direct employ- Latin America and the Caribbean, and

ees to the appropriate person to address Alfonso Torres (right), Professor and their questions or concerns,” says Cooper. Associate Dean for Public Policy at the College of Veterinary Medicine at For example, she’s guided employees Cornell University, led Shea on the tour needing to change their designated life in- page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [ 8 ] 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 did you know

? that before APHIS In 1988, approximately 180 people held such Did you know established the Animal Care (AC) program 25 licenses. Now, there are five AWA-licensed years ago, Veterinary Services (VS) enforced random-source dealers in the United States. in memoriam the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) and Horse Although many factors contributed to the Protection Act (HPA) in addition to carrying decline, two high-profile cases involving AC in Our agency lost two members of the out livestock disease programs? the 1990s successfully proved that dozens of APHIS family from July through Septem- dogs held by such dealers were actually pets ber of this year. The advent of AC—at the time called that had been stolen. The dogs were returned Regulatory Enforcement and Animal to their owners as a result of AC’s efforts. We will miss them. Our thoughts are with Care (REAC) because it included their families. what would eventually become “You won’t find stolen dogs in research any- Investigative and Enforcement more,” said Robert Willems, assistant regional marketing and regulatory Services—meant time and people director of AC’s Eastern Region Office, and programs business services devoted exclusively to seeing the one of the first VS employees who volun- Gary Meek Raleigh, NC AWA and HPA tenets carried out. teered to move to the new REAC program in 1988. “It wasn’t common back then, but we plant protection and quarantine Among the many significant results of did find them.” David Szanyi Winter Haven, FL creating a program dedicated to animal By Christa Anderson welfare is the decrease in the number of Congress passed the AWA in 1966 after “random-source dealers”— meaning entities national media coverage drew attention to the licensed under the AWA to sell dogs/cats fact that Americans’ pets were being stolen obtained from pounds, shelters, auctions, or and sold to research facilities.l any person who did not breed and raise the animals on his/her premises.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 [ 9 ] 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 aphis capacity building triumphs in gambia, senegal

By Vivian Keller It couldn’t be—or could it? At first, Dr. Ous- systems of cattle. It is a historically dreaded d’Elevage et de Recherches Vétérinaires man Abdullah Barra Jobe, principal veterinary affliction. USDA established the Bureau of (LNERV), a regional reference laboratory. In officer for the Upper River Region of the Gam- Animal Industry in1884 in large part to combat early August, tests confirmed the presence bia, didn’t suspect that the terrible disease the disease. Although CBPP was eradicated of CBPP. Subsequent investigation would killing his area’s cattle could be a scourge no in the United States in 1892, it still occurs in reveal that cattle recently imported from Mali Gambian farmer had seen for 40 years. But Asia, the Middle East—and Africa, where the and Mauritania, where CBPP is endemic, had when he attended an APHIS workshop for 16 death toll among infected animals can be as likely reintroduced the disease. African veterinarians in Banjul on transbound- high as 80 percent. ary animal diseases, APHIS and its partners moved swiftly to he saw pictures of sick CBPP had not been reported in Gambia since help. After LNERV notified the World Orga- cows that looked dis- the early 1970s, so safeguards had been nization for Animal Health of the outbreak in turbingly familiar and relaxed: sporadic surveillance eventually took September, a team of experts from APHIS, he reconsidered. the place of vaccination. USAID, and the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization visited the infected areas a In a decisive dem- Confidence in the Gambia’s invulnerability month later to assess the situation and deter- onstration of the to CBPP ran so high that when Jobe initially mine a response. benefits of APHIS’ aired his concerns with colleagues at the international capacity- Banjul workshop—conducted by staff from In November, the disease was also confirmed building efforts, his APHIS in collaboration with the sanitary/phy- in Senegal, which surrounds the Gambia on concerns were swiftly tosanitary (SPS) advisor for the U.S. Agency Africa’s west coast and had also been CBPP- confirmed—and help for International Development (USAID) and free for decades. from APHIS and its USDA in early June 2012, and funded by international partners the U.S. African Command—he met with After consultations between the national was on the way. considerable skepticism. veterinary services of both affected countries, An assessment team holding a meeting with organized by APHIS and the USAID/USDA farmers at Niamina Dankunku (Central River The culprit was contagious bovine pleu- But Jobe persevered. Blood from affected Region), the most affected village. ropneumonia (CBPP)—a highly infectious Gambian cattle was collected and sent to Continued on next page bacterial disease that attacks the respiratory neighboring Senegal’s Laboratoire National

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 ] 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 capacity building agency triumphs calendar january Continued from page 9 The APHIS Training and Development Calendar provides listings for agency training courses; the calendar includes SPS advisor, each launched a vaccination capacity-building work. Direct lines of impact dates, times, staff contact information, campaign. The countrywide campaign in like this aren’t always possible to draw,” said and descriptions of targeted competen- the Gambia has so far immunized 250,000 Karen Sliter, International Services’ Regional cies. “eligible” cattle—healthy animals more than 6 Manager for Europe, Africa, Russia, and the Veterinary Services’ Professional Develop- months old. Near East. ment Staff posts an updated training calendar that features upcoming VS training Seventeen times larger than its neighbor, For the farmers of the Gambia and opportunities and points of contact. Senegal opted for a “ring vaccination” cam- Senegal, those lines could not be clearer paign, which controls disease within a limited —or mean more.l Workplace Networking Webinar; Janu- area and is targeting about ary 14, 10:00 a.m. to noon (ET); register 170,000 cattle. via AgLearn; contact Tanya Briscoe at [email protected] for more B. Jebang, director of Gambian Although the spring of 2013 information. Central Veterinary Laboratory, brought reports of two new Mentoring—Building Professional examining a sick animal. CBPP outbreaks in the same Networks Webinar; January 16, 11:30 Senegalese district where a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (ET); register via the disease first appeared, AgLearn; contact Wendy Johnson at no new cases have been [email protected] for more reported since. information.

Effective Meetings Using Live Meeting That is good news for Webinar; January 29, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. West Africa’s cattle—and a (ET); register via AgLearn; contact Mirdza triumph for APHIS’ efforts Fernandez at mirdza.m.fernandez@aphis. to help other countries cope usda.gov for more information. with animal disease. International Services’ Cheikh Fall (left in white shirt) february “This is an excellent example examining a sick animal in a Niamina Dankunku village National Black History Month. Watch your of tangible outcomes from (Central River Region). email for events and announcements. l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13 14 15 16 17

manager profile with jacek taniewski

Director for Animal Export [what is your background?] with Asian and Pacific coun- for college next year. I am also coaching my- National Import Export Services, I was born and raised in small town called tries involving live animals and self to cope with her college departure. Veterinary Services (VS) Suwalki in the northeastern part of Poland. animal germplasm. [accomplishment most proud of?] I am a 1983 graduate of the Academy of Ag- Currently, I am working as a As a foreign graduate, I am very proud of riculture and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary director for animal export. I am passing the American Veterinary Medical As- Medicine in Olsztyn, Poland. I was in practice managing VS’ Animal Export sociation Educational Commission for Foreign until my departure to the United States in the unit. I provide expertise for Veterinary Graduates certification program in fall of 1989. I landed in New Jersey with one formulating policies, standards, regulations, 1998 (while working full-time) and obtaining suitcase and $600 dollars in my pocket. For and procedures for the export of live animals my license to practice veterinary medicine in 9 years, I worked odd jobs, including gas sta- and germplasm from the United States. the State of New Jersey. tion attendant, handyman, painter, fixer-upper, and veterinary technician. [most memorable [hobbies?] APHIS experience?] Cooking and meat smoking. I am single father, blessed with the challenges Crazy trip to Russia in December of raising a 17-year-old daughter. of 2007 where we opened  [guilty pleasure?] the market for U.S. cattle. I Fluffy cheesecake with [how long have you been with aphis?] also got food poisoning during strawberry topping. I started my Government career in 1998, negotiations and ended up in with the USDA Food Safety and Inspection the embassy infirmary. And later [favorite movie?] The Fifth Element and Foyle’s War Service in Russellville, AL, as the inspector in that week on my way home, I was stranded charge of the one of the largest (1.4 million at the Moscow airport for almost 24 hours. pounds a day) poultry slaughter plants in the [last book read?] Secret Wars of Mosad, by Yvonnick Denoël. United States. I joined APHIS/VS in 2003 as [priorities in the coming months?] the regional trade coordinator in the National At work, to finish revising export regulations Center for Import and Export. In this role, I and to work with my coworkers on opera- [favorite meal?] Homemade fettuccini Alfredo with garlic and was responsible for international negotiations tional implementation of VS’ reorganization. In private life, I coach my daughter to be ready mushrooms or roasted duck with apples.l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13 14 15 16 17 keeping employees safe and trade moving in mexico Imagine the challenges of working in a foreign “Our employees in Mexico help facilitate a [training employees] By Darya Chehrezad country where your colleagues are spread large amount of two-way trade every year that APHIS and the RSOs have also developed across 2,000 miles, often in very remote benefits both U.S. and Mexican producers,” comprehensive emergency training for locations. Add to that serious, ongoing secu- said Ken Miller, APHIS’ security branch chief. all Mexico-based employees. The training rity concerns and accompanying restrictions Recognizing the programs’ importance focuses on implementing risk mitigation on travel, as well as many other complicating to Mexico and U.S. markets, Miller and IS strategies, procedures, and protocols and factors, and you will have some idea of personnel met with the RSOs to discuss using devices such as GPS trackers and the day-to-day realities facing more than alternatives that would keep employees safe personal locator beacons, which alert APHIS, 200 International Services (IS) employees and working. The meeting was a success— DOS, and U.S. and Mexican military in in Mexico. the RSOs modified the travel restrictions and an emergency. created a “Live There, Work There” policy. Over the last 3 years, drug cartels have been Although they faced and overcame some a major source of violence in the country. This policy recognizes that employees from early logistical obstacles, Miller, IS personnel, Keeping our employees safe is paramount the same area as their workplace are at a and RSOs Fernando Matus and Jorge Becerril and requires a great greatly reduced risk based on a number of traveled to Uruapan, Michoacán, and Tapa- deal of collabora- factors. Some of these factors include famil- chula, Chiapas in July to train employees. tion with the U.S. iarity with higher risk zones and a clear under- Department of standing of safe driving routes and emergency “The need to keep our employees safe while State (DOS). services in the area. they work comes above all else,” said Miller. “Continuous dialogue with our partners is a Due to ongoing To further ensure employee security, APHIS key piece of that effort.” safety concerns, and the RSOs continually assess threats to in November 2012 personnel and determine if, where, and how Despite the challenges they face every day, DOS regional operations can continue. When violence IS employees in Mexico remain resilient and security officers increases in a given area, all parties evaluate dedicated to the agency’s mission. APHIS will (RSOs) proposed the risk to employees, consult, and—if neces- continue doing all it possibly can to ensure International Services employees at significant travel restrictions on U.S. Govern- sary—recommend that APHIS leadership sus- that personnel remain safe, a commitment the comprehensive emergency training ment employees in Mexico, which would have pend operations. Before resuming activities, that Administrator Kevin Shea has reiterated in Uruapan. limited most of APHIS’ trade, safeguarding, APHIS security personnel and the respective to employees. l and preclearance programs. RSOs re-evaluate the area’s security. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] 14 15 16 17 volunteer spotlight mary stephens

As an APHIS employee, Veterinary Services’ The Pine Plains FFA is dedicated to making a [time given] Mary Stephens contributes daily to the health positive difference in the lives of students by Stephens has been a 4-H leader for 11 years of U.S. agriculture. And outside of work—as developing their potential for premier leader- and given well over 3,000 hours of support a volunteer for several ag-related organiza- ship, personal growth, and career success to participating youth. She has been on the tions—she contributes even more to agricul- through agricultural education. Sheep and Wool Growers Association board ture as well as to her local community and to Agriculture in the Classroom–Literacy Week of directors since 2003, spending 2,700 youth development. promotes reading and brings agriculturally hours promoting and supporting local sheep Stephens was recently honored with a Presi- themed books and resources into thousands producers. As an FFA alumnus, Stephens dent’s Call to Service Award for her extraordi- of classrooms and libraries throughout New has donated numerous hours to support the nary volunteer efforts. She received the award York State. future of agriculture. She has volunteered as a Mary Stephens in recognition of her lifetime volunteer service. reader for Agriculture in the Classroom for the [volunteer activities] past 10 years. [employee name and program] As a 4-H leader of Southern Shepherds, Mary Stephens, Animal Technician, Stephens has planned meetings, educational [organization web sites] Veterinary Services, New York events, field trips, and fitting and showing Dutchess County Sheep and Wool Growers clinics, as well as assisted with a food booth Association: [volunteer organization] during the New York Sheep and Wool Festival. www.sheepandwool.com Southern Shepherds 4-H Club; Dutchess Stephens is on the board of directors for the Dutchess County-4H: County Sheep and Wool Growers Association; Dutchess County Sheep and Wool Growers www.ccedutchess.org Pine Plains Future Farmers of America (FFA); Association and manages the sheep breed Pine Plains FFA: Agriculture in the Classroom–Literacy Week. display barn at the New York Sheep and www.pineplainsschools.org/webpages/ [organizations’ missions] Wool Festival. cmacneil/news.cfm?subpage=839086 4-H empowers youth to reach their full poten- For the FFA, she has judged district and sub- Agriculture in the Classroom: tial, working and learning in partnership with district Career Development Contests and www.agclassroom.org/ny/programs/ caring adults. Southern Shepherds’ mission supplied lambs for educational displays. literacy.htm is to help prepare young shepherds to be During National Agriculture Literacy Day, responsible adults. Stephens visits and reads to a class of [employee email] Dutchess County Sheep and Wool Grow- second graders. [email protected] l ers’ mission is to promote locally as well as American-grown lamb and wool. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 [ 14 ] 15 16 17

In our last issue, we asked employees, “Do you question look forward to annual performance appraisals?” work tip Here’s the percentage breakdown of the of the answers we received. Our thanks to everyone updating your day who responded to the last issue’s question. contact information 43.3% Do you look I don’t look forward By Mike Booth forward to to performance appraisals annual Tis’ the season to update your contact 5. In the available space, write a message performance information and learn how to leave an out-of- for people within your organization and appraisals? 46.7% office message for your email account and one for people outside your organization. I feel neutral about 10% VoIP phone. Your customers, coworkers, (There are separate tabs for each group performance appraisals I look forward and stakeholders will appreciate your holiday of people). thoughtfulness when you’re out of the office! 6. Message tips: Mention your return to performance date, if you’ll be responding to email appraisals Enjoy these quick tips with a cup of hot cider! while you’re out, and who to contact [next question please] (with their contact information) for immediate assistance. According to the 2013 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey Results, 54.7 percent of [contact information— outlook/global address book] APHIS participants in the survey have been with APHIS for 11 or more years. The results [out-of-office phone message] would suggest that the agency is a workplace that employees find worthy of investing a 1. Open http://addressbookupdate in sizeable portion of their careers. Internet Explorer. 1. From your VoIP phone, press the “mes- 2. Log in using your Windows (Domain/ sages” button. You will be prompted for With that in mind, we ask: How many years do you anticipate working for APHIS? VPN) user name and password. your passcode followed by the # key. • 1–3 years 3. Edit your contact information. 2. For setup options, press 4. • 4–5 years 4. When you’re finished, click the 3. Follow the voice prompts to change your • 6–10 years “update” button in the bottom-right standard greeting and record a message. • 11–14 years corner of the window. 4. Message tips: Say when you’ll return, • 15–20 years 5. Changes will be reflected in the USDA if you will be checking your voicemail • More than 20 years Global Address List within 2 to 3 days. while you’re gone, and who to contact (with their contact information) for As always, your participation is voluntary and confidential. [out-of-office email message] immediate assistance. Share this link with your coworkers and encourage them to participate! Click HERE 1. In Microsoft Outlook, select the “file” to take part in the poll. tab at the top. Questions? Call ATAC at (877) 944-8457, 2. Select the “Info” tab on the left. option 1–United States toll free, or (919) For more APHIS results from the 2013 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey, 3. Click on the “Automatic Replies” button. 855-7888, option 1–International. Or, email please visit the APHIS portal. 4. Select the “Send Automatic Replies” [email protected]. l button and select your departure and return dates (if known). page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 [ 15 ] 16 17 plant protection and quarantine pop stops trouble before it begins By Gary Roush

For the past 3 years, Ken Law has served [the work of a ranger] resulting time savings ensures a longer shelf as a full-time “Ranger,” but not of the Lone, Rangers take on foreign TDY assignments life for the product. Power, or Texas variety—rather, as more of lasting anywhere from 2–4 months. POP also the preclearance kind. draws from a roster of qualified PPQ officers [the global life] to fill assignments as needed. Although foreign TDY assignments often Law and nine other ranger colleagues work involve long hours, unpredictable lengths of for Preclearance and Offshore Programs The work may include monitoring overseas stay, and unfamiliar languages, food, and ac- (POP), a unit under Plant Health Programs fumigation, hot water dip, or irradiation pest commodations, the opportunity to serve and within Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ). mitigation treatments; conducting joint inspec- protect American agriculture while in a foreign tions of approved fruits, vegetables, or flower locale may have a certain appeal to qualified In addition to a host of other offshore safe- bulbs at foreign facilities; and/or certifying that individuals with a hint of wanderlust. guarding activities, POP provides preclear- products and facilities meet all PPQ require- ance, certification, and treatment services ments. Commodities that have undergone As for Ken Law, he is currently wrapping up overseas for approved plant-based commodi- treatment and/or preclearance overseas may a 3-month assignment in Thailand, oversee- ties, with the goal of excluding foreign plant then enter the United States with only minimal ing inspection and irradiation treatments for pests and diseases before such shipments inspection upon entry, eliminating potential longans and mangosteens bound for U.S. ever arrive at a U.S. port of entry. delays at port. markets. Other ranger assignments have taken him to South Africa to inspect pears POP’s activities are carried out at the POP specialists are also sent on short-term and citrus, to Argentina to oversee fumigation PPQ Ranger Ken Law in South Africa request of foreign entities—such as flower assignments to foreign ports to certify—at a of blueberry exports, and to Patagonia for bulb packers in the Netherlands or citrus shipping company’s expense—that a vessel’s cherry inspections, as well as to foreign ports cooperatives in South Africa—in cooperation refrigeration capabilities meet all regulatory to conduct cold treatment ship certifications. with the exporting country’s national plant requirements for in-transit cold treatments to protection organization. In return, the exporter mitigate pest risks of agricultural cargo within Law is looking forward to the challenge of his association is required to fund all expenses the ship’s holds. next POP assignment, wherever in the world incurred by POP staff assigned to carry out a that may take him. l particular mission. It is typically less expensive to treat a shipment of produce while in transit, and the

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 [ 16 ] 17 claire franklin: entering new benefits territory

By Ruth Goldberg

In a great example of preparation meeting debt that could have been avoided if they were of Marriage Act (DOMA), they knew they opportunity, Claire Franklin was the first APHIS married. “We [Federal employees] have great wanted to be ready if the opportunity arose for employee to take advantage of the new insurance,” says Claire, “and I wasn’t able to Katherine to qualify as Claire’s family member Federal benefits available to same-sex married put her on it.” When they heard that the Su- in an FEHB plan. couples, enrolling in a self-and-family Federal preme Court would be ruling on the Defense Continued on next page Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plan. Claire has been with the agency since 2002, working as a data technician for Plant Protection and Quarantine’s Citrus Health Response Pro- gram. She also serves on the Integrated Plant extended benefits: get informed Health Information System Change Control When the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on While only a handful of APHIS employees Board. Prior to joining USDA, she worked for June 26 that Section 3 of the Defense of changed benefits packages during the 4 years with the Florida Department of Agri- Marriage Act (DOMA) was unconstitutional, special open enrollment period, now all culture and Consumer Services as an office APHIS’ Marketing and Regulatory Programs legally married employees have the same automation specialist. Business Services team immediately options. Same-sex marriage is now permit- mobilized to notify employees that Federal ted in Washington, D.C., and 14 States— APHIS’ Claire Franklin (right) [tested by healthcare costs] benefits now extend to all employees California, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Claire met Katherine Derr, her partner, about and her partner, Katherine Derr and annuitants in a legal marriage. Thus, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minneso- 20 years ago as members of an eclectic band same-sex couples are eligible for the same ta, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, called Waking Giants; Claire was the drummer benefits as opposite-sex couples. Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington; and Katherine the lead singer. Eventually, the however, benefits coverage applies regard- band broke up, and the two lost touch, but The interpretation of the law was treated less of the employee or annuitant’s State of after the group reunited in 2005, they became as a qualifying life event, meaning that residency. More than a dozen countries also a couple. employees already in a legal same-sex have legalized same-sex marriages. marriage had 60 days (in this case, until

One of their big challenges has been health

August 26) to enroll in or change their For more information on benefits programs insurance. Katherine works as an office man- enrollment in the health benefits programs, and enrollment, visit MRPBS’ benefits ager in a private company with limited health including life insurance, dental and vision Web pages. l benefits that cost $400 per month; the couple insurance, and long-term care. found themselves with significant medical page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 [ 17 ] new benefits territory Continued from page 16 [married—and not married] Revenue Service decision means they can married coworkers. This will have a tremen- The idea of marrying in Washington, D.C., also file a joint tax return. “My marriage is dous impact on our lives and on my personal where same-sex marriage is legal, “just kind finally treated the same as opposite-sex mar- experience as a USDA-APHIS employee. of came up.” The couple had always talked riages, and I get to be equal to my straight Thank you!” l about seeing the annual cherry blossoms, but had never done it. In the spring of 2013, Katherine announced they would finally be making that trip, “….and oh, by the way….we should get married when we’re there.” That made perfect sense to Claire. In April 2013, employees earn they were married on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. excellence award Mary Palm Laurene Levy Claire and Katherine reside in Sarasota, FL, response to soybean rust, citrus greening, where same-sex marriage is expressly prohib- In August, the American Phytopathologi- daylily rust, gladiolus rust, citrus black spot, ited by the Florida Constitution. This means cal Society (APS) honored Plant Protection plum pox virus, and Ralstonia solanacearum they are not legally married in their home and Quarantine’s (PPQ) Laurene Levy and Race 3 Biovar 2. State—not guaranteed hospital visitation Mary Palm with the Society’s Excellence rights or property inheritance rights, and they in Regulatory Affairs and Crop Security APS praised Levy and Palm—along with the face other limitations. They participate in their Award. The award was in recognition of work of their APHIS colleagues and coopera- county’s domestic partnership registry, but it their outstanding contributions to regulatory tors—for helping to ensure that the United is limited in scope and does not apply outside plant pathology, crop security, and trade States has the tools, training, and diagnostic the city limits. enhancement efforts. systems needed to respond to significant [preparedness meets opportunity] The Society cited Levy and Palm’s com- plant disease emergencies. Still, when the Supreme Court ruling came bined efforts to prepare for and respond For more about APS and Levy and Palm’s down in June, they were ready with their to significant quarantine programs such award, visit the Society’s Web pages. l D.C. marriage license, and a recent Internal as Phytophthora ramorum, the USDA

page United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Vol. 1, 2014 APHIS

click aphis in this issue trade APHIS Trade National Program Accomplishments 1 Set to Launch 10 accomplishments BSE and Trade 2 Navy Dolphins Make APHIS employees work hard every day to reopen markets, but also the agency’s daily Humanitarian Splash in keep U.S. agriculture healthy, productive, and efforts to facilitate trade. Wildlife Services: Croatia—with APHIS Help 11 profitable. Judging by the fiscal year (FY) 2013 Snowy Owl figures and accomplishments, the efforts of For example, last year, APHIS issued nearly Numbers Surge 3 Volunteer Spotlight: APHIS and its many partners are adding up 113,000 certificates for animal exports and Rey-Michael Olea 12 to success for U.S. producers and for the almost 174,000 certificates for animal product Grand Opening in Los Angeles 4 U.S. economy. exports. On the plant side, we and our State and county cooperators issued more than Recent APHIS Retirees 13 This Survival Guide It was another record-breaking year for U.S. 605,000 Federal phytosanitary certificates, agricultural exports, contributing to what with our automated system producing the is for You 5 Information President Obama called in his State of the vast majority—95 percent. In addition, APHIS Technology Union address “the strongest five-year stretch overseas attachés worked to obtain the Phony Pallets Pose Diviision: The of farm exports in our history.” release of about $34 million worth of agricul- Pest Problems 6 ABCs of the tural shipments detained at foreign ports. IT Strategy 14 For FY 2013, U.S. agricultural exports in- Continued on next page VMO Observer: Information creased by $5 billion, bringing the total value with Personality 7 Question of the Day 15 to approximately $141 billion and supporting nearly one million U.S. jobs, all the while help- 2014 Farm Bill Wildlife Services: ing to feed the world. Signed into Law 8 This Class is a Blast 15 APHIS played a key role in resolving 194 Agency Calendar 9 In Memoriam 16 trade-related issues, including high-impact BSE-related issues—see page two sidebar Field Representatives Animal Care: BSE and Trade. The result is $2.7 billion in Added to AMT 9 Answering new markets opened and existing markets The Call 17 retained or expanded. Did You Know? 10 For FY 2013, U.S. agricultural exports Manager Profile: Wendy Jin 18 These accomplishments represent not only increased by $5 billion, bringing the total APHIS’ longstanding work to retain, open or value to approximately $141 billion. page APHIS page 1 [ 2 ] 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 trade accomplishments

Continued from page 1 [key accomplishments and more] to retain access to other valuable markets for The program’s industry-driven approach Here are some of the key accomplishments U.S. crops. Examples include: enables the continued export of U.S. for FY 2013. For more details and informa- grapes ($844 million/year) and protects tion, read the SPS Accomplishments • Reaching agreements with South Korea California’s grape and tree fruit industry Report, Fiscal Year 2013. allowing the export of U.S. cherries ($74 valued at $5.7 billion. million/year) and the continued export of • Reopening markets in Belarus, Kazakh- California citrus ($150 million/year). APHIS continues business process improvements to better ensure that U.S. importers stan, and Russia for U.S. hatching eggs • Gaining approval for the export of all and exporters can move at the speed of com- and day-old chicks ($20 million/year). cherry varieties to Japan, including ones merce. In FY 2013, the agency shortened the • Regaining access for poultry and poultry produced under a systems approach amount of time it takes to develop import- products to China, Japan, and Taiwan— that has been widely adopted in the related regulatory actions by well over a year. valued at $529.4 million, $175.4 million, Pacific Northwest and California ($15 APHIS also completed 22 commodity-import and $128.4 million, respectively. This million/year). pest-risk analyses representing potential new represents significant progress in reduc- • Continuing the European grapevine market access for a total of 39 country-coming avian influenza-related restrictions. moth program’s success in California. modity combinations. l • Extending a pilot program to continue the export of logs from Virginia and South Carolina to China; addressing China’s pest-related concerns about log shipments from several other States, bse and trade Continued on page 4 accounting for $578 million in exports. In 2013, the World Organization for Animal course of 10 years to achieve the reclas- • Obtaining the first-ever market access Health’s upgraded the United States’ sification to negligible risk, and APHIS is for U.S. pears to China, a market valued bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) now seeing the benefits of these efforts as at $2.7 million. USDA expects China to status to negligible risk, reinforcing for it reopens valuable trade markets for U.S. become one of the top five export desti- trading partners that our BSE surveillance producers. For example, APHIS recently nations for U.S. pears. activities and safeguards are strong. restored the $25 million market in Indonesia for U.S. beef and beef products, as well as Additionally, APHIS worked with trading Veterinary Service and International Ser- the $150 million Indonesian market for U.S. partners and U.S. growers to identify practi- vices employees worked diligently over the meat and bone meal. cal, technical solutions that would allow us

page APHIS page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 wildlife services snowy owl numbers surge

By Mike Booth This winter a sudden increase in the number owls and aircraft, totaling 147 hours of aircraft Since human health and safety is the basis for of snowy owls expanded the owl’s range down time and $440,000 in damage. WS’ focus on this issue, the program hopes far and wide. Known as an “irruption,” the to use the collected data for collision preven- population surge is presenting challenges for WS is partnering with Project SNOWstorm tion efforts at airports. Early data illustrate the Wildlife Services (WS) damage management to track the owls’ migration to learn more magnitude of the irruption and WS’ response. efforts at airports from the Midwest to the about their general movements, feeding, During fiscal year 2013, WS managed snowy Northeast and as far south as Florida on the and habitat use. WS personnel recently as- owl issues at airports in 10 States and relo- eastern seaboard. sisted the project by placing GPS trackers cated or dispersed 63 raptors. In the first half on snowy owls at Martin State Airport near of fiscal year 2014, the program addressed Mike Begier, national coordinator for WS’ Baltimore, MD, and at the Philadelphia Inter- issues in 19 States and relocated or dispersed airport wildlife hazards program, said minor national Airport. 584 snowy owls. l irruptions are common in the northern tier of the United States and are observable as natural population fluctuations. But it has For more info, been more than 40 years since the last major irruption basics see www.projectsnowstorm.org irruption occurred, driving the raptors farther into the South. Some scientists believe an overabundance of food sources may have created the population boom.

And now as these territorial raptors are divvying up available hunting ground, they • Irrupt of a natural population: to undergo a sudden upsurge in numbers especially Wildlife Services’ Jenny Dzimiela are coming up short. This winter, sightings of when natural ecological balances and checks are disturbed. snowy owls have been reported in Arkansas, works with owl researcher Scott • The 2013 irruption is the largest the East Coast has seen in 40–50 years. Weidensaul to fit a backpack Florida, and even Bermuda. • Snowy owls are attracted to airports because the areas typically resemble tundra habitat. transmitter for tracking. The snowy owl is the largest owl in North • Snowy Owl Diet: An adult may eat more than 1,600 lemmings per year and may America and can cause major damage to supplement its diet with rabbits, rodents, birds, and fish. aircraft. Before the irruption year, between 1990 and 2012, the Federal Aviation Adminis- • Size/Weight: 3.5 to 6.5 pounds, 20-28 inch body with a 4.2 to 4.8 foot wingspan. tration reported 84 collisions between snowy page APHIS page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 grand opening in los angeles

On February 6, APHIS held a grand opening international health certificates, conducts Continued from page 2 for its new Los Angeles Plant Inspection Sta- on-farm pre-export inspections, and super- By Workabeba Yigzaw tion and Animal Import Center. vises the export of horses, livestock, and zoo animals, as well as the export of dogs and bse The facility was built to better meet import cats to certain rabies-free countries. needs in the Los Angeles area and as part of the agency’s larger effort to ensure that all [good for agriculture and and trade inspection stations are brought up to APHIS the environment] standards. With the new building, the agency The new facility was designed and construct- Administrator Kevin Shea has made also seized the opportunity to combine two ed to meet the agency’s work needs and also it one of his top goals to eliminate all Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) work green-building certification standards (LEED remaining trade barriers from the first units—plant inspection station and Smuggling Silver) that are good for the environment. BSE detection in the United States in Interdiction and Trade Compliance employ- December 2003. For more, visit the BSE ees—together under one roof. Design features include: and Trade section of the Administrator’s Vision and Goals portal pages. Each year, plant health safeguarding special- • Low water-use fixtures and services; ists inspect a large volume of plants that are • Native landscaping; The $6.2 billion in exports of U.S.-origin mailed, carried, and shipped into the United beef and beef products during calendar States by brokers, travelers, and nursery own- • Laboratories and inspection rooms; year 2013 far surpasses the $3.9 figure ers. In fiscal year 2013, the Los Angeles Plant • Increased dock space to serve more for 2003; however, 20 trading partners PPQ Botanist Jamal Al-Henaid answers Inspection Station inspected over 108 million trucks of all sizes (from vans to 53-foot still maintain BSE-related restrictions pre- questions about plant material for tour imported plants—not to mention seeds and trucks) simultaneously; and, venting the importation of all U.S. beef, groups during the grand opening. other plant material presented for inspection. beef products, and live cattle. • Space to conduct training for partners in Customs and Border Protection (CBP), The new facility is also home to Veterinary We will continue to work closely with our stakeholders, and other cooperators. Services’ Animal Import Center staff, which partners in USDA’s Foreign Agricultural

includes veterinarians, animal health techni- Service, as well as the Office of the U.S. The grand opening of the Los Angeles Plant cians, and document examiners. They super- Trade Representative, to leverage our Inspection Station and Animal Import Center vise importation and quarantines for livestock, negligible BSE risk status and open more also provided an opportunity to celebrate poultry, and zoo animals entering through Los doors for U.S. agricultural exports. l USDA’s partnership with CBP, the California Angeles International Airport. In addition, the Department of Agriculture, stakeholders, and VS staff handles import inspections, endorses industry representatives. l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 this survival guide is for you

By John Scott As APHIS employees we often wear many [what’s inside] Survival Guide for Program Planning hats at work. We get asked to step into new As a resource tool, the Survival Guide meets and Management projects, take on unfamiliar tasks, or to help you right where you are, and it’s organized to rethink and revamp existing programs or help with your specific needs. For example, if Planning activities. you’re a new or aspiring manager, the guide • Decision Support offers a full range of resources—comprehen- • Developing Basic Program Rationale Do any of these sound familiar? sively breaking down all the pieces and parts • Strategic Planning • You’ve been asked to help justify a of planning, evaluating, and monitoring. • Operational Planning budget but don’t know what information • Project Management Overview to provide. Or, if you’re a seasoned manager looking to • Budget as a Management Tool visit the • You have a new suggestion regarding revitalize a program and you want information • Rulemaking field work but aren’t sure about the specifically about performance metrics, the • Environmental Compliance click survival guide environmental implications and how to guide covers that too. for program learn more. Evaluation and Monitoring planning and • You’re assigned to help evaluate a And, if you’re part of a new project team and • Performance Metrics and Measures management project’s progress but aren’t clear about your role is to lead the team through some • Business Process Improvement first steps. key decision points, then the Survival Guide’s • Comprehensive Program Reviews and “decision support” section is for you. Monitoring The new Survival Guide for Program • Evidence of Review and Evaluation Planning and Management provideS valu- Developed by APHIS’ Policy and Program able information on these topics—and more! Development, the Survival Guide is Visit the Survival Guide online today! l organized by topic and easily navigated as The Survival Guide offers helpful information a reference manual. Sections contain straight- on all facets of program and project planning. forward explanations, examples, and key Plus, it provides useful information on the point summaries. other critically important parts of your work cycle: evaluating and monitoring results.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 phony pallets pose pest problems

By Gary Roush What do Nike shoes, Gucci purses, Rolex These stamps visually indicate to port authori- have the authority to refuse entry of the watches and wood packaging materials ties worldwide that the wood used to trans- entire shipment. (WPM) have in common? They have all port an imported shipment has been treated been the target of counterfeit activities. to mitigate against forest pests. WPM counterfeiting can take various forms. And although wood pallets with counterfeit For example, a WPM manufacturer may use markings may not be as stylish as a Rolex, Under Memorandums of Understanding its legitimate stamp to mark untreated WPM. they can still be costly—especially to U.S. with APHIS, the American Lumber Standard Such a violation by a domestic manufacturer agriculture and natural resources. Committee (ALSC) and the National Wooden can result in the company’s suspension from Pallet and Container Association, working in the certification program for up to 180 days, WPM containing residual insect eggs/larvae collaboration with 23 accredited independent along with enforcement action by APHIS. has been responsible for many introductions third-party agencies, monitor compliance with APHIS alerts its overseas counterparts when- of exotic forest pests—including emerald ash the program’s requirements at approximately ever it finds evidence of fraudulently marked borer and Asian longhorned beetle—into the 5,100 WPM manufacturers nationwide. The foreign WPM. United States. To prevent further spread of third-party agencies continually audit how Sample stamp, courtesy of Carolina exotic forest pests through WPM, APHIS and much treated wood each manufacturer There have also been instances when a Inspection Services, Inc. fellow signatories to the International Plant produces or purchases, and compare that WPM manufacturer has engaged in blatant Protection Convention abide by a 2002 agree- figure against the company’s invoices for counterfeiting by stealing or forging the stamp ment that requires all WPM—with certain completed pallets. of a legitimate stamp owner—a violation of specific exemptions—used in international both the Plant Protection Act and trademark commerce to be heat-treated or fumigated [not playing by the rules] law. The largest penalty to date for trademark with methyl bromide. Unfortunately, sometimes companies—both violation resulting from WPM counterfeiting here and abroad—choose not to play by the was an almost-$1 million civil judgment issued After treatment, each piece of WPM must be rules. Some try to save money by cutting cor- against a New York packing freight company. stamped with a two-letter code indicating the ners and shipping unmarked or fraudulently manufacturing country, the type of treatment marked, untreated WPM. If incoming WPM Continued on next page used, and a unique number identifying the arrives at a port unmarked, port officials specific WPM manufacturer (see illustration).

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 vmo observer information with personality

The VMO Observer—a Veterinary Services’ observations; it also gives employees a place Site content is reviewed by a team of volun- SharePoint page—offers something for non- to share expertise and tap the network of fel- teer moderators with help from a cadre of veterinarians and veterinarians alike and is well low agency animal health professionals. subject matter experts. l worth a new bookmark in your web browser.

For agency veterinarians, it provides helpful information, discussions, and advice about animal disease investigations. phony pallets Continued from page 6 The site connects employees with resources for efficient and effective animal disease surveillance, diagnosis, and response. In another instance, a pallet company [stopping counterfeit stamps] was marking its goods using a stolen APHIS’ Investigative Enforcement And, for non-veterinarians, the site serves stamp taken by an employee from his Services (IES) has investigated more up interesting stories from the field—stories previous employer. In a Texas case, a than 100 cases of domestic WPM fraud. that capture the challenges, insights, and, at man in charge of a wholesale grocery’s IES first works to determine if there is times, even the humor that comes with the shipping operations tried to save time fraudulent activity. If there is substantial job. Recent posts include: “What’s the Mag- and money by forging a copy of a evidence indicating so, IES may send ic Word? Wickenburg!” and, “The Pleasure legitimate stamp and using it to mark the case to USDA’s Office of the General of Working on a NAHMS Study.” untreated pallets that moved back and Counsel for formal administrative action. forth across the border. His counterfeit- In cases with strong evidence of willful The VMO Observer provides a balanced ing scheme was uncovered because the and knowing fraud, the Office of Inspec- blend of professional insight and personal impression made by the bogus stamp tor General or the Department of Justice was significantly smaller than a legitimate may pursue criminal charges. A former one; he had copied the design from president of ALSC was recently quoted a shrunken image that appeared in as saying “In every case we know an advertisement. about, APHIS’ involvement has stopped illegal activity immediately.” l

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2014 farm bill signed into law

By Abbey Fretz On February 7, President Obama signed into The Farm Bill strengthens other APHIS pro- It is essential that we work with stakeholders law the long-awaited Agricultural Act of 2014, grams, too. It gives Animal Care new authority as we begin thinking about how to implement better known as the 2014 Farm Bill. After that will better allow it to focus resources on our Farm Bill provisions. To that end, APHIS several years of congressional debate, those animals most at risk of being mistreated held two listening sessions in mid-March to agencies across USDA are now focused on or harmed. It provides support for our new begin gathering input from interested groups. implementing Farm Bill programs across national strategy to stop feral swine from We’ll also be working closely with our im- the country. damaging agriculture and natural resources. pacted programs to make sure we bring the And it codifies the National Animal Health same level of dedication and creative thinking A number of provisions in the Farm Bill will Laboratory Network while authorizing a fund- to implementing the bill. strengthen APHIS’ core mission of protecting ing increase for the program. U.S. agricultural and natural resources [more information] by better allowing us to protect plant and The bill provides additional tools and For more information on these and all of animal health. resources to combat citrus greening and APHIS’ Farm Bill provisions, you can visit the other devastating citrus diseases. This is a portal’s Congressional News–Farm Bill page. Two key Plant Protection and Quarantine top priority for APHIS, and the Farm Bill Go to the Congressional News page and programs were strengthened in the bill: The gives our partner USDA agencies additional select Farm Bill from the list of Legislative 2008 Farm Bill Section 10201 program and resources to dedicate to long-term research Topics on the left. There, you’ll find summaries the National Clean Plant Health Network priorities to address this devastating disease. of the provisions of interest to APHIS, along were combined and given additional funding. with the legislative language. l Together, these programs give APHIS extra [USDA’s implementation plan] tools—such as, research to improve plant USDA has created a working group to pest identification; enhanced efforts against develop and carry out a coordinated plan for fruit flies; and increased study of honey implementation of the law. APHIS, in turn, has bee pests and diseases—and they help a working group made up of representatives strengthen our partnerships to further the of each impacted program and headed by agency’s mission. Associate Administrator Mike Gregoire.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 [ 9 ] 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 field representatives added to amt

Good internal communications helps keep there’s a standing agenda item for them to in- Employees are encouraged to contact their APHIS performing at its best. That means troduce issues that they’ve heard about from AMT field representative to raise questions, making sure that information is shared and field employees. comments, or concerns.l that issues are surfaced from throughout the agency. With this in mind, the agency has recently added field representatives to the APHIS Management Team (AMT). agency Previously, the AMT consisted of the APHIS administrator, the associate administrator(s), calendar and the deputy administrators from each APHIS program area. Now, the AMT also in- may cludes five representatives for field employees. National Asian American/Pacific Islander Boston Asian longhorned beetle eradica- By adding field representation to the AMT, the Heritage Month. Watch your email for tion ceremony; May 12; Arnold Arboretum, goal is to mutually enrich both AMT leadership events and announcements. Boston, MA; Contact Christie Bertone ([email protected]) for efforts and APHIS field operations—making The APHIS Training and Development more information. certain that key information is traveling in both Calendar provides updated listings for directions between the AMT and the field. agency training courses; the calendar june includes dates, times, staff contact Ergonomics Webinar: Is This Safe To Lift? The current AMT field representatives are: information, and descriptions of targeted (Manual Material Handling); June 11; Rebecca Bech (Plant Protection and Quaran- coursework competencies. Register via Aglearn; Contact Ginger tine), Rich Chipman (Wildlife Services), Andrea Dorsey ([email protected]) Morgan (Animal Care), T.J. Myers (Veterinary Veterinary Services’ Professional for more information. Services), and Mark Prescott (International Development Staff posts an updated Services). training calendar that features upcom- july ing VS training opportunities and points National Plant Board Meeting, July 27–31; During monthly AMT meetings, the field of contact. St. Louis MO. l representatives weigh in on discussions and provide perspectives from the field; plus,

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 ] 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 did you know national program set to launch ? Did you know that the estimated With $20 million in newly appropriated ence dealing with issues that cross U.S. annual price tag of feral swine damage and funding, APHIS is launching the National borders to the north and south. control costs in the United States is more than Feral Swine Damage Management $1.5 billion? Program. The program brings a national The national program’s initial focus will be focus to the issue—strategically and collab- to stem the leading edge of feral swine’s That’s a mighty big number and so is the esti- oratively hitting the problem of feral swine spread and then systematically reduce mated U.S. population of feral swine. There more effectively than previously possible. their populations. One of the primary are approximately 5 million feral swine steps will be to ensure that WS has an nationwide, with free-ranging popula- Wildlife Services (WS) will provide oversight established an operational feral swine tions present in at least 39 States. to the APHIS program, with much of the control program within each State where California, Florida, Oklahoma, and funding going to WS State offices, and will feral swine are present. Texas have the highest populations. develop programs to address feral swine by building State partnerships, leverag- With broader partnerships, the new The sheer number of feral swine ing additional resources (local, State, and national program will also be better alone makes them a formidable foe. Federal), and coordinating the many positioned to strengthen control op- By John Scott Add to this the variety of damage State partnerships for maximum impact erations in a cost-effective manner. For they can cause and the disease risk and cost effectiveness. WS also will example, the program plans to develop they pose, and the situation gets even conduct research to enhance feral swine and use regional teams for aerial control more troublesome. activities and collect biological samples for operations; the aerial teams can serve disease detection. the needs of multiple States, decreasing visit the Feral swine eat and destroy field crops such financial costs. as corn, milo, rice, watermelon, spinach, APHIS Veterinary Services (VS) and Interna- click feral swine peanuts, hay, turf, and wheat. They are also tional Services (IS) programs will also play To learn more about feral swine and page on the efficient predators and, given the opportu- roles in the national program. For example, APHIS’ current work, visit Wildlife vision and goals nity, prey upon young livestock, other small VS will be involved with conducting dis- Services’ feral swine page and APHIS portal page animals, and the eggs of ground-nesting ease diagnostics and managing livestock feral swine management playlist on birds. The prey of these indiscriminate eaters disease data, and IS will lend its experi- YouTube. l includes threatened and endangered species. Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 navy dolphins make humanitarian did you know? Continued from page 10 splash in croatia— In addition, their rooting of vegetation destroys native plants, clearing the with aphis help way for invasive ones to re-vegetate Croatia’s press made instant celebrities of the The concept seemed relatively simple: Fly damaged areas. six U.S. Navy mine-seeking dolphins trolling the dolphins directly from their Navy Marine By Vivian Keller Dubrovnik’s harbor last fall. But the dolphins’ Mammal Program home in San Diego, CA, Their wallowing activities contaminate trans-Atlantic journey, and their humanitar- to Dubrovnik—an historic seaport and prime water supplies and impact water quality. ian mission, could not have Croatian tourist attraction—for de-mining And feral swine can destroy livestock and taken place without the adroit exercises starting in late September 2013. game fences and consume livestock feed diplomatic maneuvering and and protein supplements. technical expertise only APHIS But in mid-July, the plan ran into major could supply. That expertise hitches. Earlier that month, Croatia had Making matters worse, feral swine have came in the form of Marc become the European Union’s (EU) 28th been known to carry or transmit over 30 Gilkey, International Services’ member. That meant Croatia now had to diseases and 37 parasites that can be (IS) assistant regional manager abide by certain EU regulations—which, transmitted to livestock, people, pets, for Europe, Africa, Russia, and among other things, designated only Zagreb, and wildlife. For U.S. livestock produc- the Near East; Xavier Mennig, the country’s inland capital, as a Croatian port ers, the disease risk posed by feral swine IS agricultural specialist; of entry cleared to receive live animal imports. could be costly. and Sara Kaman, senior Further, Croatia’s Ministry of Agriculture had veterinary medical officer with submitted a detailed export health certificate If a foreign animal disease, such as Veterinary Services (VS). for the dolphins to VS—and VS staff had classical swine fever or foot-and-mouth disease, were to enter the United States, U.S. Navy dolphin handlers never negotiated a certificate with Croatia for feral swine could spread the disease to conducting training in south- The undertaking was a worthy one. Under the that species before. domestic swine or other susceptible ani- ern Croatia. auspices of the U.S. Department of Defense’s Humanitarian Mine Action Program, the U.S. So the defense attaché at the U.S. Embassy mals. Such diseases would be extremely Navy had offered to help Croatia’s armed in Zagreb turned straight to APHIS and Gilkey, difficult to eradicate if established in feral forces train and search along the country’s who used Mennig’s careful deciphering of the swine populations. Another concern coast for unexploded harbor mines—relics complex EU regulations on live animal imports is the potential reintroduction of dis- of previous conflicts. Chief among the Navy’s as his guide to action. eases—such as pseudorabies and swine tools was a team of trained dolphins, whose brucellosis—that have previously been biological sonar makes them uniquely effec- Continued on next page eradicated from U.S. livestock. l tive at locating sea mines. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13 14 15 16 17 18 volunteer spotlight rey-michael olea

[employee name and program] including a prince and princess of Sparta. [organization web site] Rey-Michael Olea Last year, the honorary prince and princess— The Krewe of the Knights of Sparta: Smuggling Interdiction and both diagnosed with cystic fibrosis—assisted www.knightsofsparta.com Trade Compliance Officer during events and helped raise disease Plant Protection and Quarantine awareness. [employee email] Kenner, LA [email protected] l [time given] [volunteer organization] Olea has been involved for 5 years and The Krewe of the Knights of Sparta. reigned as king for one year, 2013-2014. [volunteer activities] Mention the city of New Orleans and usually one of the first things that comes to mind is navy dolphins Continued from page 11 Mardi Gras. To the outsider, Mardi Gras looks like a parade of organized chaos with never Although Gilkey’s initial request for an designated a military airfield, paving the ending fun. Each parade, however, is carefully exemption to allow the dolphins to travel way for a nonstop dolphin flight. planned by a group called a krewe. directly to Dubrovnik was rejected, he Often the krewes are social organizations. made headway on the certificate by The exercise went off on schedule—and And many—like The Krewe of the Knights of enlisting the help of Kaman. A 22-year swimmingly. After arriving in Dubrovnik on Sparta, of which Olea has been a member for APHIS veteran who has negotiated health a Boeing C-17 Globemaster to the flash of 5 years—also adopt a cause to support. The certificates for everything from oysters to media cameras, the dolphins quickly got Rey-Michael Olea Krewe of the Knight of Sparta holds numerous giraffes, Kaman soon found herself dis- down to business, searching the Adriatic social functions each year to raise money for cussing extensive lists of marine animal for mines with Croatian and U.S. military and awareness of cystic fibrosis in children. diseases and certifications with her Croa- divers and staff in tow. And the IS/VS The functions include a fish fry, the Sparta Soi- tian and Navy counterparts. Within just team that helped make it possible was ree and Auction, a classic car show, and the a few weeks, she had worked out terms able to take pride in a job well done. “In Spartan Stomp Summer Dance and Auction. that all could agree to for what she calls a way, we were our own pod of dolphins, “my first dolphins.” Meantime, the port- looking for mines in international waters,” Each year, the organization picks a ceremonial of-entry issue was resolved after Gilkey says Gilkey. “The key was teamwork. And king to reign. For 2013-2014, Olea served as suggested that Dubrovnik be temporarily the result…clear sailing.” l King of Sparta in addition to his usual organizing and participation in krewe events. The krewe also selects other royalty for the year, page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] 14 15 16 17 18 recent aphis Between October 2013 and early March Susan Ellis Philadelphia, PA Stephen Clemmer Fort Collins, CO 2014, a total of 80 employees retired from the Randolph Foster, III Phoenix, AZ Sandra Copenhaver Helena, MT retirees agency. We send our congratulations to each Tom Kalaris Fort Collins, CO Garry Cracraft Cynthiana, KY and wish them all the very best. Charles Izumi Hilo, HI Teresa Dudis Delavan, IL David Kaplan Riverdale, MD Eleanor Eagly Ames, IA October 1, 2013–March 8, 2014 Roger Lamp Raleigh, NC Janice Eifling Ames, IA Paul Larkins Raleigh, NC Eldon Halvorson Kenmare, ND animal care Joanne Martin Amityville, NY Barbara Hedberg Ames, IA Irene Fernandez Riverdale, MD Victor Mastro Otis AFB, MA James Hill San Angelo, TX Gary Goldberg Shrewsbury, MA Charles McNeal, Jr. Fort Collins, CO Stormy Jones Riverdale, MD Robert Willems Raleigh, NC Arthur Medeiros, Jr. Kahului, HI Billy Kasney Fort Collins, CO Robert Meinders Urbandale, IA Elizabeth Lussier Dryden, NY biotechnology regulatory services Henry Odom, Jr. Frederick, MD Daniel Martinez Zapata, TX Levis Handley Riverdale, MD Joseph Ploski Phoenix, AZ Tom Mclarty Mutual, OK David Renz Wilmington, OH Barbara Miller Albany, NY international services Linda Schepers Raleigh, NC Jane Mussey Madison, WI Carolyn Cohen Riverdale, MD James Schoenholz Raleigh, NC Cornelis Noordermeer Lafayette, AL Michael Simon Riverdale, MD Joseph Odziana Mattawan, MI legislative and public affairs John Stein Riverdale, MD Carlos Soto Alberti San Juan, PR Lawrence Hawkins Sacramento, CA Paul Sugibayashi Honolulu, HI Ronald Uherka Kissimmee, FL Bevelyn Whitfield Riverdale, MD Robert Vlasik Mcallen, TX Melvin Vermeesch Port Huron, MI Dawn Wade Frederick, MD James Williams Lakewood, CO marketing and regulatory Randall Wilkinson Beltsville, MD Mark Wilson Ames, IA programs business services Drusilla Dukart Minneapolis, MN policy and program development wildlife services Leigh Eberhart Minneapolis, MN Eva Ring Riverdale, MD Jerry Blue Little River, SC Annette Perry Riverdale, MD Frank Boyd, Jr. Auburn, AL Barbara Recktenwald Lakewood, CO veterinary services Richard Christian Waupun, WI Anthony Santitoro Raleigh, NC John Akin Hope, AR George Cornelius Albuquerque, NM Lissa Scott Riverdale, MD Lowell Anderson Des Moines, IA Curtis Cruse Lebeau, LA Michael Thomas Fort Collins, CO Suzette Anderson Ames, IA Ronnie De Los Santos San Antonio, TX David Bartling Fort Collins, CO Nancy Gaines Athens, GA Plant Protection and Quarantine Gary Baudino Brownsville, TX Mark Mayberry Port Angeles, WA Ramon Benavides Mission, TX Steven Bengtson Fort Collins, CO William Nelson Reserve, NM Dollina Brown Wilmington, NC Kevin Cassidy Fort Collins, CO Donald Rodriguez Pueblo, CO l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 [ 14 ] 15 16 17 18 information technology division the ABCs of the IT strategy

By Scott Moore Coming soon to a computer screen near to ensure that IT projects and work actively service, and even reduce costs. Already, data you: The APHIS Information Technology support the goals and objectives identified in housed in Minneapolis and Raleigh have been Strategic Plan. the strategic plan, which is expected to be migrated to the National Information Technol- finalized this spring. ogy Center in Kansas City, MO; data currently Roughly every 5 years, APHIS looks ahead to housed in Riverdale, Ames, and Fort Collins its tech future, mapping a course of action The APHIS IT Strategic Plan will have will be migrated by December 2014. APHIS to manage information technology (IT) four goals: also intends to modernize its communications activities and deliver services to both APHIS Enhance technology to better strategy—integrating voice, video, and data employees and agency customers. The result- serve customers. telecom capabilities—and expand the techni- ing IT Strategic Plan gives employees and To do this, APHIS will increase the avail- cal ability of USDA agencies to work within those who interact with the agency—custom- ability of information. This includes enact- the same network and to share data. ers, partners, and stakeholders—an idea of ing standards for data sharing and making what to expect, technology-wise. Secure APHIS IT data and systems. available high-volume data (what tech types This includes investments in file and message “As technology changes and our customers call “big data”) to support leadership deci- encryption, and advanced cybersecurity expect quicker solutions and better access to sionmaking. APHIS also is working to extend tools that adhere to the privacy principles of information, we must continually think about access to cloud-based services and establish USDA, APHIS, and our customers, partners, what the future will bring,” said APHIS Chief an agency-wide electronic/digital signature and stakeholders. Information Officer Gary Washington. system. In addition, the agency plans to make “...we must continually its interfaces more user-friendly for those on Build an effective cadre of highly The latest IT Strategic Plan—aligned with the go: increasing the use and capability of skilled IT professionals. the USDA and APHIS overall strategic plans, think about what the a variety of mobile applications and devices To stay abreast of current issues, standards, as well as USDA and Office of Management and allowing employees to deploy a virtual and trends, APHIS needs to acquire, develop, future will bring.” and Budget directives—was developed by a desktop no matter where they work. and retain IT talent, and ensure that the best- team that includes the agency’s IT Leadership –Gary Washington, APHIS, CIO equipped teams are on hand to effectively Advisory Council. The APHIS Management Unify IT service delivery and carry out business objectives.l Team subsequently reviewed and approved products/services. the draft strategic plan, which was shared in Unifying disparate data sources promises March with IT specialists. They, in turn, will to increase security, deliver more timely be involved in creating an operational plan page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 [ 15 ] 16 17 18

question In our last issue, we asked employees, “How wildlife services many years do you anticipate working for APHIS?” of the Here’s the percentage breakdown of the answers this class we received. day is a How many blast years do you By Carol Bannerman anticipate 50% working for More Than 20 Years Wildlife damage management is a discipline lab that is sure to make a lasting impression. It 10% APHIS? that is both science and art, and requires was a real blast—literally. Expect 15-20 practical field experiences as well as tradi- Years tional classroom study. At 21 universities [outdoor classroom] 4% Mississippi State University (MSU), where Expect 1-3 throughout the country, Wildlife Services 13% (WS) employees teach 32 courses on how to Godwin is an adjunct professor, recently Expect 11-14 10% Years reduce the negative impacts of wildlife while received the gift of a $1.4 million, 550-acre Years Expect 4-5 conserving or enriching the positive aspects. 13% Continued on next page Expect 6-10 Years Years Most of these courses incorporate field and lab activities where students [next question please] either participate in or observe actual WS operations on the In APHIS, some employees work on projects that cross agency program lines, while others properties of private or gov- find that all of their time and attention is devoted to working within a single program. ernmental cooperators. In an As a result, employees may vary in the ways they understand APHIS’ many achievements increasingly urban and techno- and all the important work that we do. logical America, the hands-on, With that in mind, we ask: How much do you know about APHIS programs other than real-world skills taught by your own? experienced WS specialists sometimes provide students • Nothing at all with their first field encounters. • A little bit Students often rate the courses • A fair amount or individual labs highly—some • A lot saying that they are the most As always, your participation is voluntary and confidential. useful that they’ve taken. Standing atop a beaver dam, Wildlife Services’ (WS) Share this link with your coworkers and encourage them to participate! Click HERE Johnny Carter (center with hard hat) shows students Kris Godwin, WS director in to take part in the poll. l how to string wire to detonate charges for dam re- Mississippi, concluded her moval. WS State Director Kris Godwin (right of Carter) curriculum last fall with a field watches the preparations.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 [ 16 ] 17 18

this class is a blast

Continued from page 15 property near Starkville, MI. The University sive flooding—and damage—to timber, fields, has developed a management plan to use and transportation infrastructure. the Andrews Forest and Wildlife Laboratory for a variety of learning experiences, including As the accompanying video shows, a stream’s in memoriam forestry, wildlife, and other classes. WS wildlife flow can be immediately released, relieving technician Johnny Carter will work with Misty upstream flooding, by removing a dam. Watch We lost several members of the APHIS Booth, an MSU forest supervisor, on clean-up what happens just moments after Carter’s family from October 2013 through early projects and to remove beaver and their dams “Fire in the Hole” call, which has to be one March of this year. that negatively impact the property. of the most memorable closings to a college course ever recorded. We will miss them all. Our thoughts are In typical WS multitasking fashion, the parcel’s with their families. video management work was integrated into a class Similar WS cooperative teaching efforts take last November. Godwin, Carter, and Booth place in Georgia, Indiana, New York, Tennes- plant protection and quarantine click watch video took the graduate and undergraduate stu- see, Wisconsin, and other States. While some Debra Lissau Idaho Falls, ID of beaver dents to the Andrews lab and demonstrated past students have joined WS after gradua- Ashima Sengupta Riverdale, MD dam removal trapping techniques to prevent overnight bea- tion, this isn’t the only potential benefit. ver dam reconstruction, which is not uncom- veterinary services mon. Although dams are sometimes manually Regardless of whether they pursue a career James Earl East Lansing, MI removed with hand tools, the final demonstra- in wildlife services, natural resources, or tion was much more dramatic. some other field, all of the participating wildlife services students gain a deeper understanding Saidor Turman Fort Stockton, TX [learning is a blast] about wildlife conflicts and APHIS’ efforts Marlyn Riggs Enterprise, OR WS has a cadre of certified specialists skilled to manage them.l

in the safe and effective use of explosives to

remove beaver dams that can cause exten-

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 [ 17 ] 18 animal care answering the call

Sometimes a single phone call can make a APHIS personnel met with the owner and from far and wide stepped up to adopt and very big difference. It was the end of the were able to guide the situation toward a pro- transport the animals. work day in the Western Region office when ductive solution: They would assist the owner Animal Care (AC) received such a call from with the zoo’s closure and animal relocation. AC employees spent long hours on the phone a concerned lieutenant with the Las Vegas This strategy provided more direct overall sup- making arrangements with the new own- Police Department. port for the animals’ welfare than would any ers. And AC regional staff worked with the type of traditional enforcement action. And it Nevada Department of Wildlife, the U.S. Fish The lieutenant called AC to request help with provided a permanent resolution to the exist- and Wildlife Service, and other State offices to an urgent situation at the Las Vegas Zoo, ing enforcement issues. coordinate permits needed to move animals, where there had previously been some animal some of which were endangered species. welfare issues. A variety of factors had caused [busy two weeks] the zoo’s owner to close the facility the With a plan in place, the APHIS team went With the constant buzz of activity also came previous week, and the officer was concerned to work tending to the facility’s collection of attention from news media. AC staff on the that its animals were in jeopardy. The sole mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. AC staff ground conferred with Legislative and Public Animal Care’s Alex Andricos (right) caretaker—the owner—had limited resources ensured that the animals—which ranged from Affairs and handled the media interest, which works with a licensee to prepare a for feed and was struggling to provide basic flamingos, to cougar, to chimpanzees, to Gila dwindled as animals were steadily relocated. bird for transport. care to the facility’s more-than 300 animals. monster, and more—received appropriate care, food, and medical attention. In all, the team was onsite for nearly two The situation was dire, and AC responded by weeks. AC—along with its many partners— special thanks to immediately dispatching a team of employees In addition to providing needed care, AC completed the relocations by October 9. to the zoo. Despite the sense of urgency of tapped its extensive network of facilities and Meek credits their success to the hard work AC Team Members: Alex Andricos, the situation, the team needed to approach organizations to help find new homes for and dedication of team members and to the Laurie Gage, Kathy Garland, Bev the owner diplomatically. They had to find the animals. “We put out an all-points diverse collection of people and organizations Hicks, and Jeannie Lorang an agreeable solution that quickly addressed bulletin,” said Elizabeth Meek, AC assistant that got involved. Investigative and Enforcement the animals’ immediate needs, but there was regional director. Services: Jose Pelayo also concern that if the situation got more “A lot of animals lived because people put AC Regional Staff: Kevin Dennison, complicated, the delay could further harm Meek and others were impressed with the their differences aside for the sake of the Bob Gibbens, E.B. Meek, and the animals. response. Zoos, sanctuaries, rescue organiza- animals,” said Meek. l Tanya Tims tions, and other Animal Welfare Act licensees page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 [ 18 ]

manager profile with wendy jin

[what is your background?] and Regulatory Programs Business Services [favorite movie?] I grew up in the southeast part of China; I (MRPBS). The work I do here in MRPBS is The Shawshank Redemption earned my BS in biology and an MS in plant totally outside of my backyard, and I have ab- Wendy Jin, Branch Chief breeding from China. I graduated solutely enjoyed my detail so far. My priorities Eastern Compliance Assurance [last book read?] from Iowa State University with are to learn as much as I can and deliver the Biotechnology Regulatory Services Deep Change: Discovering the a PhD in plant physiology and best products and services. l Raleigh, NC Leader Within by Robert Quinn. molecular biology. I spent most of my career in industry prior to joining APHIS. [accomplishment most proud of?] I have recruited a large number of [how long have you employees throughout my career. been with aphis?] To watch my staff developing I joined APHIS Biotechnology Regulatory themselves, learning new skills, John Scott, Editor (301) 851-4068 Services (BRS) in 2008. technical or otherwise, and having APHIS [email protected] the ability and confidence to take on

[most memorable more responsibilities. Photo sources: APHIS, R.Benson, M.Booth APHIS experience?] (MSU), A.Eaglin (LPA), S. Ferreri (PA Game Commision), B.Hicks (AC), R.Olea (WS), My colleague and I delivered our first biotech- [hobbies?] Hiking, gardening, and learning acupressure USDA, U.S. Navy, Wildlife Services (PA). nology inspection training in March 2009. I to promote wellness. Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving could never forget the hugs I received from all APHIS employees by delivering agency field inspectors at the last day of the training news, providing useful workplace informa- before they left. It is encouraging and comfort- [favorite meal?] tion, and connecting employees from across It is hard for me to pick just one. I love to the agency to our shared mission, common ing to know that we were helpful. challenges, and significant accomplishments. eat! Seafood. For information about contributing articles [priorities in the coming months?] and photos, please visit: I am currently on my developmental [guilty pleasure?] www.aphis.usda.gov/inside_aphis/. Watching the entire detail assignment with the Office of season of House of the Deputy Administrator, Marketing Cards when it is released.

page United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Vol. 2, 2014 APHIS animal care in this issue click new technology New Technology Keeps Plant Protection and an Eye on Violations 1 Quarantine: Making an keeps an eye Export Supersystem 10 Training in Pakistan By Tanika Whittington Offers Opportunities 2 Did You Know? 11 on violations FY 2015 Volunteer Spotlight: You may already be familiar with microchip- The resulting photographs—along with any Appropriations Update 4 Mary Lou Berninger 12 ping, branding, and tattooing as ways of iden- prior violation records, pedigree registrations, tifying horses and other animals. But have you and other information—are stored electroni- Plant Protection Animal Care: heard about Animal Care’s newest high-tech cally in the scanner. Because no two irises and Quarantine: Partnering for Diversity 12 method for identifying horses? are alike—not even in identical twins—the Snails Intercepted 5 images are an accurate way to identify horses Stopping Animal Care’s Horse Protection program is presented for inspection. My.APHIS Launches 5 Maine’s Gypsy Moth using iris scanners as part of the agency’s One Letter at a Time 13 efforts to end horse soring—the practice of [the benefits] Recent APHIS Retirees 6 intentionally inflicting pain to horses’ limbs to The use of iris scanners came in response accentuate their gait so they will score higher to the USDA Office of the Inspector Veterinary Services: AgDiscovery at competitions. Continued on next page Ojinaga Port Activities 2014 14 Resume 7 First used by the program in 2013, the hand- Question of the Day 15 held scanners simply and accurately identify In Memoriam 7 horses before they are inspected at walking Reducing the Pain in horse shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions. APHIS e-File Town Hall 8 Reporting Accidents 15 [how it works] Agency Calendar 8 Calling 911 in Case The scanners contain specialized cameras of Emergency 16 that allow inspectors to photograph the iris Wildlife Services: of a horse’s eye. An inspector positions the Researching Airfield camera about 12–14 inches from the animal’s Land Use 9 Manager Profile: eye, exposing it to light that is approximately Dave Root 17 equal to the brightness of a sunny day. An inspector uses an iris scanner to identify a horse prior to show. page APHIS page 1 [ 2 ] 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 international capacity building training in pakistan Continued from page 1 offers new opportunities technology By Ben Kaczmarski and John Scott General’s 2010 audit of the Horse Protection program. The audit recom- Training abounds at APHIS. The agency For Kaczmarski—and APHIS’ Lottie Erikson, mended revising and enforcing regula- routinely provides employees with profes- who presented a training session just prior tions to prohibit horses disqualified as sional development courses, offers classes to him—the training road in Pakistan brought sore from competing in all classes at through AgLearn, and coordinates mentoring other unexpected moments and opportunities horse shows, exhibitions, or other horse- opportunities with fellow colleagues. APHIS as well. related events. The audit also recom- even hosts animal- and plant-related training mended regulatory changes to require courses for international groups visiting the [training for a future] that each horse be clearly and uniquely United States. IS and FAS began the training initiative in identified by a reliable, objective, and per- 2011 to support Pakistan’s efforts to develop manently attached or embedded device. However, there are some kinds of training that a plant health program consistent with World are less than routine and that take agency Trade Organization (WTO) standards. Since By pairing a unique iris image with other employees down a very different road. One the program’s launch, APHIS has provided records, the scanners help Animal Care recent training landed APHIS’ Ben Kaczmar- three training modules: a general overview; prevent disqualified horses from being ski on such a road—a narrow, dusty road in an introduction to the WTO’s principles, reentered. Horse owners and trainers Ben Kaczmarski leads a discussion Rawalpindi, Pakistan. standards, and terminology; and an overview are far less likely to attempt reentering an during training in Pakistan. of the ways in which APHIS responds to a re- event—or entering subsequent prohib- Kaczmarski travelled to Pakistan as quest for market access for a new commod- ited events—knowing that an iris scan a presenter for a distance learning ity. Each module includes an online training would pull up stored records and alert an program administered through APHIS’ component followed by live training sessions inspector to a prior violation. International Services (IS) and USDA’s hosted in country. Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). Iris scanners also benefit horse buyers The training program offers several layered and sellers. Iris scans can alert buyers if “On the way to class, the driver warned benefits to Pakistan’s agricultural efforts. a particular horse has been sored previ- that the road was about to change,” said It helps build relations between Pakistan’s ously and disqualified. Similarly, sellers Kaczmarski, who works on the agency’s agricultural and technical staffs and between can use the scanner to demonstrate to Regulatory Analysis and Development staff. Pakistan officials and APHIS—as well as potential buyers that a horse has not “I thought he meant that we were taking a other U.S. partners. And by putting the been sored. l new route. He meant that we were about to go off pavement.” Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 training in pakistan

regulatory training into action, Pakistan “On the second day of training, we had just [on a good road] agricultural officials hope to benefit their wrapped up a passionate discussion about Kaczmarski and Erikson are both optimistic country through stabilized local economies, when we should consider a plant pest to be about the long-term success of the ongoing an enhanced agricultural infrastructure, and high risk. As we finished, the local imam made training initiative. expanded opportunities to participate in inter- the noonday call to prayer,” said Kaczmarski. national trade. “Nothing is easy when it comes to trade, but “It was about 100 degrees that day. The there is definitely cause for hope here,” said [bridging language and culture] class stopped, and participants filed outside Kaczmarski. “They have potential markets for While the training is fairly standard, the cir- to face east and pray. I turned to one of my mangoes in the EU. And they have a really cumstances aren’t. colleagues, and she just smiled and said, ‘I good tangerine species with the chance to guess someone’s saying we need a break.’” take advantage of international interests in “I’ve had experience with plant health training that, too.” in the U.S. and other countries and have had Despite the linguistic and cultural differ- experience teaching in Pakistan, but this was ences, both Erikson and Kaczmarski were In the meantime, the training will continue my first go-round developing and narrating an encouraged by how quickly the class picked preparing the way for more opportunities. In online module,” said Lottie Erikson, an export up some of the more advanced aspects the coming months, the program is offering analysis coordinator with the agency’s Plant of bilateral trade. During trade negotiation participants training modules on pest risk Protection and Quarantine program. Her nar- simulations, participants came up with original assessments and risk communication. l rated module was used to prep participants and culturally specific solutions that fell within prior to the live training. WTO parameters.

Participants review class materials “My narration was dubbed into Urdu. When I “I lived in Pakistan for several years, but I during a session arrived for the first day of exercises, my stu- had forgotten how almost every exchange is dents’ comment to me was ‘Memsahib, your based on negotiation,” said Erikson. “Every- Urdu is very good!’” said Erikson. one enjoyed the fast-paced negotiations with spectators cheering on the sidelines as if we Kaczmarski has his share of stories, too. were all at a hotly contested cricket match.”

page APHIS page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 fy 2015 appropriations update

By Michelle Wenberg In mid-May, the Senate and House Appropria- • A $1 million increase for Biotechnol- been passed on the Senate or House floor. tions Subcommittees for Agriculture marked ogy Regulatory Services, for a total of As it currently stands (as of September 19), up our Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 Appropriations $19.223 million. Congress passed a Continuing Resolution at Bill. Later that month, the two bills made their FY 2014 funding levels that would be in effect way through Full Appropriations Committee The House markup provides $867.505 million through December 11, 2014. The bill is now markups in both bodies. for APHIS, an increase of $45.784 million on the President’s desk, where he is widely above our current appropriation. Like the expected to sign it. l The Senate markup provides $872.414 million Senate markup, most of the increase in the for APHIS, an increase of $50.693 million House markup funds the decentralized GSA above our current appropriation of $821.721 rent for FY 2015. million. Most of the increase funds a USDA- wide initiative to decentralize its General The House provided the following Services Administration (GSA) rent account funding increases: (providing $42.567 million for APHIS). training • $3.5 million in new funding to address Highlights from the Senate markup include: porcine epidemic diarrhea virus. calendar • $2 million for Overseas Technical and • $2 million in new funding to address Trade Operations, for a total of $22.114 porcine epidemic diarrhea virus. million, to help resolve sanitary and The APHIS Training and Develop- phytosanitary trade issues and open new ment Calendar provides updated • A new line item for the National Animal markets for U.S. agricultural products. listings for agency training courses; Health Laboratory Network that contains • $500,000 for the National Veterinary the calendar includes dates, times, $10 million; $6.7 million was previously Stockpile, for a total of $4.222 million. staff contact information, and course click visit the included in APHIS’ Veterinary Diagnostics • $5 million for the Citrus Health Response descriptions.

My.APHIS line item, and $3.3 million was previously Program, for a total of $48.5 million to

Congressional funded in the National Institute of Food address citrus greening disease. For more information, visit the Center News page and Agriculture portion of the bill. for Training and Organizational for the latest While these markups represent mostly Development SharePoint site. l updates • A $2 million increase for the National good news for APHIS, neither bill has yet Rabies Management Program, for a total of $26 million. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 plant protection and quarantine snails intercepted

By Abby Yigzaw

On July 1, inspectors at Los Angeles International Airport intercepted a shipment of my.aphis—(re)designed for you 67 banana rasp snails belonging to the snail family Achatinidae. The Giant African snail, APHIS recently launched its redesigned • News Feeds—continuously updated which is considered one of the world’s most My.APHIS portal pages with a fresh look, for the latest news media clips, agency damaging snail species, is in the same snail new features, and more resources. information, and Congressional news. family. • A search function that taps the My.APHIS makes it easier for you to find My.APHIS site and the APHIS intranet Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials the resources you need. and external Web pages. discovered the shipment and sent samples to APHIS’ Los Angeles Plant Inspection Station [what’s new and how is it better?] • A new “Let Us Help” option for for identification. Visit the new pages today and you’ll see your questions and for suggesting the difference. additional content. Patrick Marquez, a Plant Protection and Quar- • Improved navigation that makes it • An upgraded blog, making it easier to antine (PPQ) entomologist and malacologist, easier to find information, resources, comment and provide your feedback identified the snails and sent digital photos for and news. to Administrator Kevin Shea’s posts. final confirmation to Fred Zimmerman, APHIS’ • A display that is optimized for use on • A new “Support” tab, which provides Acting National Malacology Specialist. mobile and tablet devices. quick access to contact information • New and expanded content areas— for key agency offices and resources, Zimmerman confirmed that they were banana

including an Employee Resources tab such as ATAC, Facilities, Travel,

rasp snails. After notification, CBP seized and with helpful content from Marketing and Procurement. l destroyed the shipment. l Patrick Marquez, a PPQ entomology and and Regulatory Programs Business ` visit malacology identifier, poses with banana Services, such as HR, financial, click My.APHIS rasp snails intercepted on an arriving administrative, and IT information. now international flight.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 recent aphis retirees

Between March 9 and July 31, 2014, a total plant protection and quarantine veterinary services of 57 employees retired from the agency. Cecilia Beamish Orlando, FL Kathleen Akin Lincoln, NE We send our congratulations to each and David Benner Davie, FL Gary Colgrove Riverdale, MD wish them all the very best. Jane Berkow Riverdale, MD Randall Crom Riverdale, MD Nada Carruthers Albany, CA Virginia Di Giallonardo Fort Collins, CO March 9–July 31, 2014 Kevin Connors Bloomington, MN Thomas Dressel Madison, WI animal care William Cousens Miami, FL Elizabeth Enciso Holt, MI John Dooley, III San Francisco, CA David Hopson Jefferson City, MO Judy Davis Ogden, UT Jeffrey Grode Washington, DC Dennis Ihrig Maquoketa, IA Ruth Elder Fort Collins, CO Meredith Jones Riverdale, MD Katherine Jeffrey Fort Collins, CO

biotechnology regulatory services Linda Mandel Long Beach, CA Albert Lawrence Fort Collins, CO Guy Nagai Lihue, HI Philip Marriott Raleigh, NC Karen Green Riverdale, MD Mary Negron Glynco, GA Peter Merrill Riverdale, MD Henry Nishikawa Lihue, HI Susan Miller Selah, WA international services Alberto Rivera Ortiz Ponce, PR Betty Real St. Paul, MN Richard Pacer Riverdale, MD Alida Rogstad Tampa, FL John Rohret Ames, IA marketing and regulatory Patricia Rufini Wallingford, CT programs business services Frank Salantri Riverdale, MD wildlife services Barbara Sowell Biloxi, MS Joseph Carpenter Chinook, MT Deborah Aghamiri Riverdale, MD Jonathan Staples Albany, NY Stanley Colton Denton, MT John Daugherty Minneapolis, MN Arnold Tschanz Riverdale, MD Earl Hodnett Riverdale, MD Sharon Hudoba Minneapolis, MN Gayle van de Kerckhove Seattle, WA Barbara Messineo Fort Collins, CO Herbert Jordan Columbia, SC Lloyd Yoshina Hilo, HI Gregory Phillips Fort Collins, CO Tracy Ramthum Seattle, WA Keel Price Las Cruces, NM Diane Riggsbee Raleigh, NC Gary Rushane Paris, ID Thomas Thorne Fort Collins, CO Robert Samuelson Olympia, WA Michael Thomas Roundup, MT l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 veterinary services ojinaga port activities resume

By Ian Perrin On June 23, Veterinary Services (VS) person- Additional safety measures were imple- APHIS officials are pleased that these im- nel were cleared to resume port activities mented, including coordinating routine facility provements—along with others—will both for animal imports at the livestock facility in patrols, providing employees with personal safeguard agency employees and enable Ojinaga, Mexico. locator/tracking devices, and constructing a the movement of healthy livestock through safe room equipped with emergency supplies the facility. l The facility had been closed since August and communication devices. 2012 due to recurring security concerns and local violence. During the closure, VS employees conducted inspections on the U.S. side of the border at a temporary facility established in Presidio, TX in October 2012. in memoriam

Prior to resuming livestock inspections in Our agency lost several members of the wildlife services Ojinaga, APHIS officials ensured that APHIS family from early March through David Baumgartner Hazelton, ND appropriate steps were taken to provide for July of this year. Gary Rehm Eads, CO the ongoing safety and security of employees Robin Venuti Richfield, UT working at the facility. The necessary safety We will miss them all. Our thoughts are Daniel Vice Barrigada, Guam improvements resulted from a collaborative with their families. effort involving APHIS and officials in Mexico, other USDA agencies, the U.S. Department marketing and regulatory Sadly, we also note the death of our of State, and industry. programs business services former APHIS colleague and friend, Michael Fuchs Riverdale, MD Paul Eggert who passed away in July.

The Chihuahuan Cattlemen’s Association, for Laura Mackenzie Riverdale, MD

example, completed site improvements such To read more about Paul’s life and as upgrading the facility’s perimeter fencing, plant protection and quarantine the remembrance written by his signage, lighting, and secure access points. Carol Milanese Albany, NY daughter, please click here to see Lloyd Richards Honolulu, HI Administrator Shea’s July 22, 2014 message to employees. l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [ 8 ] 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 aphis eFile town hall

By Alisa Robinson On July 1, APHIS’ Certification, Accreditation, Officer Gary Washington, as well as leader- “It’s important that we get this right,” said Registration, Permits, and Other Licenses ship for the four program areas impacted by Gregoire, who is overseeing the APHIS eFile (CARPOL) team hosted the first APHIS eFile APHIS e-File—Andrea Morgan (Animal Care), project. He—along with the CARPOL team Town Hall meeting for all agency employ- Michael Firko (Biotechnology Regulatory members—recognizes that APHIS’ IT systems ees. APHIS eFile is the planned agencywide Services), Osama El-Lissy (Plant Protection are extremely important to the day-to-day information technology (IT) system that will and Quarantine), and John Clifford (Veteri- functioning of agency programs. consolidate several current systems—specifi- nary Services). During the meeting, a panel cally those that support the agency’s issuance of subject matter experts from each of the As the project moves forward, Gregoire of CARPOL-type authorizations. affected agency programs also responded to promised to keep employees informed and employee questions. engaged with the project. l By consolidating these systems and using a simple, streamlined Web-based system, APHIS is aiming to reduce the burden on agency stakeholders/applicants. APHIS eFile agency Ergonomics Webinar: Laboratory is a complex project that will affect many Ergonomics; September 10; Register programs and existing systems. It will be calendar via AgLearn; Contact Ginger Dorsey rolled out in phases and will take between ([email protected]) for 3 to 5 years to complete. september more information. National Hispanic Heritage Month. Watch “This is a great chance for us to make a great your email for events and announce- Working at the Speed of Trust; Sep- leap forward in the IT world,” said Administra- ments. tember 16; 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m (CT); tor Kevin Shea. Minneapolis, MN. North American Plant Protection Organi- zation Biological Control Working Group Leading at the Speed of Trust; Sep- Developing APHIS eFile is “a test of our ability Meeting; September 9–11; Nuevo Val- tember 17–18; 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. to come together…for the benefit of everyone larta, Mexico. (CT); Minneapolis, MN. in the agency,” Shea added. Plant Protection and Quarantine Tabletop Swine Enteric Coronavirus Disease In- In addition to Shea, other presenters at the Incident Command System Exercise; ternational Meeting (Veterinary Services town hall included Associate Administrator September 10; Phoenix, AZ. and Stakeholder Sponsored); Septem- Michael Gregoire, APHIS Chief Information ber 23–25; Chicago, IL. l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 [ 9 ] 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 wildlife services researching airfield land use During summer, “mow the lawn” appears researching alternatives to turf grass that are NWRC hopes to use this research to help on many people’s list of weekly to-dos. less expensive to maintain and attract less the industry develop land management By Jhana Marquez For most, putting the time and money into hazardous wildlife. policies that will keep the flocks away and mowing an acre or two of grass isn’t such a produce a yield. big deal. But for airport land managers who “The purpose of these projects is to find are responsible for cutting hundreds of acres alternatives that won’t attract hazardous [here comes the sun] of grass, it is an expensive and daunting task wildlife and won’t put an economic drain on To promote green living, the Federal Aviation and has safety implications for the aircraft that airports,” said Travis DeVault, NWRC’s Ohio Administration asked NWRC to test solar take off and land. Field Station leader. So far, NWRC has tested panel facilities at airports and to gauge their several options that include planting switch success at repelling wildlife. NWRC, in col- Thirty-nine to fifty percent of airport properties grasses (biofuel) and installing solar panels on laboration with the University of Mississippi, in the United States are covered by grass. airport lands. has observed more birds in areas with solar These grasses make the perfect home for arrays than in the grasslands; however, the certain wildlife species that are responsible The U.S. Department of Defense is funding a birds are less hazardous than those found for thousands of collisions with aircraft—or switch grass project on six military airbases to in the grasslands. Solar arrays could play a wildlife strikes—each year. evaluate its effect on bird populations. “Switch major role in efforts to design and operate grass is a viable alternative to turf grass greener, safer airports. To reduce bird populations, airports spend because it’s hardy, it’s inexpensive to maintain, Converting airport grasslands to biofuel, thousands of dollars a year cutting, reseeding, and it can be harvested as a forage crop,” “We want the airports and airbases to have solar, or wind production may not only and maintaining these grasslands. In addition said DeVault. But does switch grass reduce options,” said DeVault. provide more environmentally sound to the expense, the laborious upkeep thwarts the presence of wildlife at airports? alternative energy sources, but also industry initiatives to reduce greenhouse What works for one airport may not work for increase revenue for airports and reduce gas emissions. Many critics are concerned that agriculture, another as climates, land restrictions, and the local abundance of wildlife hazards regardless of type, will attract unwanted birds resources vary by location. For this reason, to aircraft. [researching alternatives] to airfields. NWRC’s research, however, sug- NWRC will continue to explore more options To address these issues, Wildlife Services’ gests that some crops can reduce the pres- for airports to consider. l National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC) is ence of birds and subsequent wildlife strikes.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 ] 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 plant protection and quarantine making an export supersystem

By Vivian Keller How do you make APHIS’ State and county documents was impossible—and it could take to pay online through one source—an innova- cooperators truly happy? You make their 2 weeks just to trace a problematic certificate tion that Dellis says is cooperators’ favorite lives easier and save them money. And if to the officer who had issued it. feature. “Once they had this,” Dellis says, you’re Christian Dellis, supervisor for the Plant “they moved away from the existing systems Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) program’s Enter Dellis, whose first move was to contact they had.” Export Services, that means you offer them the cooperators who actually handled the the Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance and paperwork and find out what, exactly, they Cooperators saved precious resources, too. Tracking (PCIT) system. needed from a new system. Based on their Thanks to PCIT billing efficiencies, says Dellis, input, in 2005 he launched a nascent PCIT one California county did not have to replace The cooperators who issue some 75 percent system as a simple tracking device for PPQ two retirees and was able to hire an additional of the Nation’s phytosanitary certificates for certificates. And, crucially, he kept talking with inspector instead. plant and plant product exports—and APHIS’ cooperators about what they wanted. own staff—benefit from a system that zips [security and speed] along at the speed of international agricultural Nine years and 3,000 tweaks later, PCIT is a Fraud bedevils the export certificate business, commerce, reduces costs, and enhances Web-based giant that handles all phases of but PCIT currently provides ways to detect it security to boot. the PPQ phytosanitary certificate application that have helped foreign officials catch dozens and issuance process. of fraudulent documents this year. It wasn’t always like this. In the early 2000s, applications for PPQ’s phytosanitary certifi- Thousands of industry applicants and hun- Security and speed will both be enhanced cates—documents attesting to the health of dreds of Federal and State duty stations now with the advent of Electronic Phytosanitary U.S. plant and plant products exported to use the system. In fiscal year (FY) 2014 so far, Certification (ePhyto), a new PCIT function foreign countries—were four-part forms filled APHIS and its cooperators have issued more that automatically transfers phytosanitary out with typewriters or by hand. than 600,000 certificates. certificate data directly to the governments of foreign countries receiving U.S. exports. Because APHIS and its cooperators pro- There’s more. PCIT provides a link to PExD, a cessed the forms in different locations repository of foreign countries’ phytosanitary Continued on next page countrywide, tracking the overall volume of import requirements. It also allows applicants page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13 14 15 16 17 did you know export Did you know that pork is the While industry took the lead in addressing ? world’s most widely eaten meat, followed next PEDv when it first showed up, USDA and supersytem by chicken and closely after that by beef? State animal health authorities are now playing Continued from page 10 By Joelle Hayden a greater role in monitoring these diseases, With this in mind, it’s easy to see why the tracing their spread, and advising on best Transmitting certificate data this way swine industry places a premium on keeping a practices to address and control them. brings more credibility, integrity, and steady and healthy flow of animals to market. safety to the U.S. export system while Losses due to disease or other causes can On June 5, APHIS issued a Federal Order reducing fraud and certification costs have a significant impact on the industry. requiring producers, veterinarians, and diag- for exporters, according to Michael nostic laboratories to report new detections of Perry, the PPQ export specialist who The highest losses in the pork produc- SECD, including PEDv, to the agency or State handles PCIT’s day-to-day operations. tion process occur within 3 or 4 days animal health authorities. Since the Federal of animals’ births, and they can be Order was issued, 188 SECD-positive “There will be no more waiting for substantial. It can cost a producer premises have been identified in 17 States. documents to arrive to clear a ship- approximately $900–$950 a year to ment, or doubts about the legitimacy keep a sow. If a sow gives birth to The Federal Order also requires producers of paper documents,” Perry says. “In 20 piglets during the year, the cost with swine affected by any of these viruses to the end, it’s a big win for industry and per pig is $45 to $48; however, if a work with their veterinarians or State or APHIS for APHIS.” sow has 25 piglets, the cost per pig falls veterinary officials to develop and implement to $36 to $38. a plan for appropriately managing the virus in The ePhyto function also represents their herds. APHIS is providing $26.2 million in one more step toward a new PCIT Unfortunately, the swine industry is dealing funding to combat these diseases. Together, goal—making the system entirely with a serious challenge to piglet survival— these steps will reduce virus shed in affected paperless as it moves toward eventual porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDv) and animals, address disease spread, and enable integration into the new APHIS eFile other swine enteric coronavirus diseases continued movement of animals for produc- system. Meantime, Dellis and Perry will (SECD). Industry has estimated that PEDv tion and processing. keep hearing what users have to say. has killed about 7 million piglets and caused “Because we listened,” says Dellis, “we tremendous hardship for American pork For more information, including a Q&A, visit came up with a system that is what producers. Over the past year, consumers the SECD Web page. l people needed it to be”—the recipe for have seen pork prices rise in stores by almost PCIT’s success. l 10 percent.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13 14 15 16 17 volunteer spotlight animal care mary lou berninger partnering for diversity By Tanika Whittington [employee name and program] activities, whether earning badges, camping, Mary Lou Berninger or attending fun, local events. It’s been said that diversity is the key Microbiologist to success. If so, then the Animal Care Veterinary Services Both troops have served the local community program and the National Zoo have Plum Island, NY by preparing cookies for a homeless shelter, launched a new internship program participating in food drives at grocery stores, that holds a promise of success for [volunteer organization] helping at community historical societies, and both organizations. Girl Scouts of Suffolk County; cleaning up local beaches. Mattituck Presbyterian Church This fiscal year, Animal Care and the In addition to scouting, Berninger volunteers Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoo [volunteer activities] at her church and co-teaches Sunday school formalized a summer intern coopera- For the past 9 years, Berninger has been a class for first and second graders, whom tive program—the National Zoo Intern Girl Scout leader. She leads one troop that she describes as “a bunch of adorable and Program—that promotes outreach and has reached the Senior level in scouting and a energetic kids.” She also helps with children’s workforce diversity. second troop of Cadette Scouts. church and with leading confirmation. Zoo and Animal Care officials collaborated to develop internship opportunities that She’s been with both troops as they have [time given] would improve the diversity programs for progressed upward, beginning in kindergarten For her Girl Scout activities, Berninger volun- both organizations. Begun as a pilot pro- as Daisy Scouts. Berninger mentored the teers more than 100 hours each year. At her gram in 2012, the program is now in full girls as both troops earned their Bronze church, she volunteers about 90 hours during swing with six students participating. Awards and the Senior troop earned their the year. Silver Award. The intern program provides college [organization web site] students a chance to learn about Federal The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County’s mission http://www.gssc.us/ career options, zoological husbandry, and

is to build girls of courage, confidence, and www.mattpres.com/ the Animal Welfare Act. Interns participate

character who make the world a better place. in the program, working full-time for a Berninger’s goal has been to encourage the [employee email] girls to learn the importance of community [email protected] l Continued on next page service and to fully participate in Girl Scout page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] 14 15 16 17 plant protection and quarantine stoppping maine’s gypsy moth— one letter at a time

When the forest-defoliating gypsy moth quarantine areas moving to non-quarantine “RVers love the fun adventure of traveling invaded northern Maine’s pristine areas be inspected for gypsy moth egg cross-country,” Bourgoin said. “But if they Baxter State Park in 2008, masses. If found, those masses must be don’t check for egg masses, we could have APHIS State Plant Health removed. The letters referred company of- repeat performances of Baxter State Park Director Terry Bourgoin took ficials to APHIS outreach resources such as across the Nation.” it as a powerful wake-up YourMoveGypsyMothFree.com, which has call. He serves on Plant a factsheet and inspection checklist that, by Bourgoin doesn’t intend to let that happen. l Protection and Quarantine’s law, must be completed, signed, and carried By Greg Rosenthal Gypsy Moth Working Group, which aims to by the drivers. prevent the spread of this destructive pest of hardwood trees and shrubs. Continued from “We know how it got there—gypsy moths partnering for diversity page 12 had laid egg masses on heavy tree removal minimum of 8 weeks. It is a rewarding Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related equipment that came into the park from opportunity for participants with a Sciences program and other minority- infested areas in southern Maine,” Bourgoin background and interest in the fields of serving programs and institutes. said. “Those eggs hatched, and a whole new animal science, zoological husbandry, infestation began. It really brought home the and veterinary medicine. After an initial orientation at APHIS, the critical need for outreach and education to all interns work onsite at the National Zoo industries that could move the gypsy moth.” APHIS supports the interns by providing with zoo curators, zookeepers, and other housing and salary, but participants are employees. The interns perform duties such To help prevent similar incidents, Bourgoin’s employed by both Animal Care and the as cleaning, feeding, and observing ani-

office sent out letters to moving and recre- National Zoo. Selected interns come from mals. Additionally, each intern is participat-

ational vehicle (RV) companies. The letters the Pathways Student Intern application ing in a research project that addresses the politely but firmly alerted the companies to process, with the agency conducting biology and husbandry of the animals with APHIS’ regulations requiring that any outdoor outreach through the Minorities in which they are working. l household items or vehicles in gypsy moth

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 [ 14 ] 15 16 17 agdiscovery 2014

By Ian Perrin APHIS kicked off this year’s AgDiscovery fields such as animal science, agribusiness,

sessions on June 2 at Fort Valley State plant pathology, and others. John Scott, Editor University in Georgia. The AgDiscovery APHIS (301) 851-4068 program—now in its The sessions—ranging in length from [email protected] 12th year—takes place 2 to 4 weeks—ran this year from June 2 Photo sources: Animal Care, G. Bartman at 17 universities across through August 2, providing participants with (PPQ), D. Bergman (WS), B.Bumpas (FAS), the United States. hands-on experiences that they will remember OCRDI, D.Root (MRPBS), USDA. for years to come. l Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving Counting this year’s all APHIS employees by delivering agency 262 participants, news, providing useful workplace information, and connecting employees from across AgDiscovery organizers the agency to our shared mission, common estimate that they’ve challenges, and significant accomplishments. reached approximately For information about contributing articles 1,500 students since and photos, please visit: www.aphis.usda.gov/inside_aphis/. the program began.

The collaborative program provides Students pose for a team photograph students with challenging educational oppor- as part of the AgDiscovery program at tunities in agriculture, focusing on areas such North Carolina State University, which as entomology, veterinary sciences, plant ran June 16–27. pathology, and horticulture.

As an outreach program, the goal is to Shown above, students enjoy a teambuilding educate and develop students for careers in exercise during the AgDiscovery program at Kentucky State University, which took place June 15–28.

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question In our last issue, we asked employees, “How much do you know about APHIS programs other than of the your own?” reducing the Here’s the percentage breakdown of the answers day we received. pain in reporting

5% accidents By Misty Leilani Cordeiro Nothing How much at All do you know 34% about APHIS APHIS’ Emergency Management, Safety, and USDA’s Forest Service launched a similar 22% A Little Bit programs other than your own? Security Division plans to unveil a new online automated system as a pilot project 8 years A Lot system for reporting on-the-job accidents. ago. Based on the project’s success, USDA For employees, the new system will reduce plans to implement the new system across all 39% Our thanks to everyone the pain and paperwork sometimes associ- of its agencies. A Fair Amount who responded to our ated with the current reporting process. last question. [tracking to improve] Set to launch next winter, the system will In addition to improving how the agency man- [next question please] decrease the time spent filling out forms and ages individual incidents and serves employ- expedite the process overall. Employees will ees’ needs, the new system offers another We’re all a little different in how we work. Some folks are morning people, and they arrive at access the system online and—following benefit. It will better enable USDA and APHIS work early ready to march through their to-do list. Other people hit their work stride later in its simple navigational prompts—enter the to track and monitor accident reporting and the day and get more work done in the late afternoon or evening. information needed. Using the employee’s put that information to use. input, the system logs the incident and can With that in mind, we ask: When is your most productive part of the day at work? automatically generate a workers’ compensa- APHIS safety officials will review data • Early morning tion form if desired. related to accidents and injuries, especially • Morning those that reoccur, to provide better safety • Middle of the day If an employee chooses to apply for management for everyone. For example, • Afternoon workers’ compensation, he or she simply officials could use the collected data to help • Late afternoon hits the “submit” button. The appropriate identify areas where additional employee • Evening form is then forwarded directly to APHIS safety training is needed or where operating workers’ compensation managers and procedures should be revised. Feel free to add your comment explaining why. the U.S. Department of Labor. Correspon- As always, thanks for responding and remember your participation is voluntary dence will primarily be handled through the Watch your email for launch dates and and confidential. system, where employees can easily log in training information.l for updates. Share this link with your coworkers and encourage them to participate! Click here to take part in the poll: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LQ2763B.l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 [ 16 ] 17 calling 911 in case of emergency

By John Scott Hopefully you’ll never need to make an emer- For employees in Riverdale, Fort Collins, and gency call, but it’s important to be prepared Raleigh, a 911 call on a VoIP phone also trig- and know what to do just in case. gers an automatic notification that is sent to think about other responders in the building. Notifications location, location, location If you need emergency services and you’re alert onsite responders so that assistance can calling from an APHIS VoIP phone in Riverdale be provided as quickly as possible. If you are working from home— VoIP Phones— or at a hub office, all you need to do is dial or from a location other than your 911 for help. APHIS Safety and Health officials are work- office—avoid using your VoIP phone Voice over Internet ing on establishing similar onsite notification to call 911. Instead, use a local land Protocol phones The VoIP systems at APHIS headquarters and systems at other hub locations. line or a mobile phone if available. Be transmit audio hub locations—Riverdale, Ames, Fort Collins, aware that, if you use your VoIP office signals via the Minneapolis, and Raleigh—do not require 911 [more info—please read] phone, you will need to inform the internet instead of to be preceded by any other number to place Don’t let embarrassment get the better of 911 dispatcher of your location. using traditional the call. you. If you dial 911 accidently, please remain phone networks. on the line and simply explain your error. If If you are in the office and need to call With the exception of the agency’s offices in you hang up without speaking to anyone, 911 for someone else offsite—such Ames, all 911 VoIP calls made from these lo- an emergency dispatcher will attempt to as a child or other family member at cations will be directed to a 911 dispatcher. At call you back. And if you do not answer, the home—avoid using your VoIP phone. Ames, 911 VoIP calls are first routed to facility dispatcher will send emergency personnel to Use a mobile phone if possible. Be guards. Because of Ames’ gates and campus your location—wasting valuable resources aware that, if you use your VoIP office size (550 acres), the guards must intervene to and possibly costing APHIS money. l phone, you will need to inform the efficiently direct any responding emergency 911 dispatcher about the location of services to the scene. the emergency. l

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manager profile with dave root

[what is your background?] [priorities in the coming months?] [hobbies?] David M. Root, Chief I grew up in rural mid-Michigan. We farmed Acclimating to our new workload Gardening: Our Marketing and Regulatory nearly 1,000 acres and raised about 250 tracking system—LERIS (Labor and flower garden was stunning Programs (MRP) Employee & head of beef cattle. I enlisted in the U.S. Air Employee Relations Information System). this year. Red is my favorite Management Relations Branch Force right away and spent nearly 6 years We will also continue providing conduct and color, and I enjoy subtle shades as an airborne Russian/Spanish crypto- performance-based training to customers and of our red flowers. linguist. Following military service, I “joined” new employees. the U.S. Postal Service, where I worked for Jelly-making: I’m an avid cook, baker, and almost 19 years in a variety of labor and [accomplishment most proud of?] jam/jelly-maker. My mom encouraged me to managerial positions. In 2011, APHIS Employee Relations engaged make pancakes when I was 8 years old, in a Business Process Improvement project and I’ve loved cooking since then. I enjoy [how long have you to streamline the services we provide to our “jamming” and typically share several dozens been with aphis?] customers. We’ve accomplished much in of jars (in a variety of flavors) with I transferred to APHIS in 2007 as a senior the last 3 years, yet we continue to find ways friends and family year-round. employee relations specialist. Sixteen to improve. I’m truly honored to have months later, I accepted the position of the opportunity to work with [favorite movie?] branch chief for what was then APHIS so many dedicated, talented Avatar Employee Relations. people within MRPBS. [last book read?] [most memorable [favorite meal?] I’m currently reading Marilee Adams’ Change APHIS experience?] Sushi: While I prefer to have Your Questions, Change Your Life. I’ve found In 2007, I traveled to the Foreign someone make it for me, I it very insightful. l Animal Disease Diagnostic Labora- enjoy making it at home as well. tory at Plum Island to present training. The daily “commute” from Old Saybrook, CT, was [guilty pleasure?] 45 minutes via ferryboat (each way) across White Chocolate Truffles: I try to keep them Long Island Sound, and then a short trip by available for customers! bus to the facility. I was greatly impressed with the Veterinary Services mission. page United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Vol. 3, 2014 APHIS plant protection and quarantine in this issue click helping tribes with biocontrol Plant Protection and Veterinary Quarantine: Helping Tribes Services: agents By Jhana Marquez and Vivian Keller with Biocontrol Agents 1 Testing for Salmonella in Native American ranchers in Montana Although the concept seems simple, getting Getting to Know Bearded Dragons 8 constantly battle invasive weeds that crowd the system to work requires ongoing coordi- APHIS Associate out the grazing grasses their cattle need. nation between the office of PPQ’s State Plant Administrator APHIS Fleet But through partnerships with APHIS’ Plant Health Director for Montana, Gary Adams, a Jere Dick 3 Management on a Roll 9 Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) program, the multitude of weed specialists, and participat- Tribes have found that tiny foreign insects— ing Tribes, including the Confederated Salish Getting a Grip on In Memoriam 10 a biocontrol arsenal—can help them win and Kootenai Tribes, the Blackfeet Nation, the Carpal Tunnel 5 this struggle. Fort Belknap Indian Community, the Chippe- Volunteer Spotlight: wa-Cree Tribe, the Crow Nation, the Northern Recent APHIS Retirees 5 Katy Vernon 11 [battling the weeds] Cheyenne Nation, and the Sioux/Assiniboine Weeds such as leafy spurge and spotted Tribes of the Fort Peck Reservation. Former APHIS Helping Those in Need knapweed have grown in Montana and on ad- Administrator in Jamaica 11 jacent reservations for generations. Although PPQ works with natural resource specialists Harry C. Mussman herbicides, grazing, and mechanical controls from each Tribe and the Bureau of Indian Passes Away 6 Question of the Day 12 such as plowing can help manage invasive Affairs to gather insects established in weeds, biological control agents—such as Montana or other States. Cooperatively, they Animal Care: Partnership Did You Know 13 insects sourced from Europe and Eurasia— release and monitor the insects in areas with Keeps Stakeholders Informed 7 are increasingly popular among some Tribes. significant weed infestations, in hopes that these insects will establish populations of their The Gift of Warmth 7 Manager Profile: Carefully screened by PPQ and its research own and serve as a reservoir for the Tribes to William Stokes 14 partners, these “biocontrol agents” use the use in future. area’s invasive weeds as a nursery where they lay eggs. After the larvae hatch, they PPQ helps monitor these catch-and-release nibble on the target weeds, stunting their sites, called insectaries. The program growth and development. also gives funding to the Indian Nations

Continued on next page

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partnering with tribes

Continued from page 1

Conservation Alliance (INCA) to support these personnel working for some Tribes are just In the end, he says, the best indicator of efforts, along with workshops that teach par- becoming aware that there’s a biocontrol PPQ’s success is how his staff works with ticipants how to identify target weeds, handle option out there,” says Adams. “Although it the Tribes toward a goal everyone agrees on: equipment and insects, and pursue alterna- may be a slow process, it can be a long-term, protecting Indian Country’s agriculture and tive control methods. For their part, the Tribes cost-effective solution” to keeping Native “keeping the stewards of the land on place and maintain the insectaries, making herds and economies thriving. the land.” l sure they remain free from pesticides and safe from animals—all with the goal of becoming self-sustaining biocontrol practitioners.

[getting results] Surveys attest that, over time, the insects are doing their job. A case in point is the Fort partnerships reach wide Belknap Indian Community, which has collaborated for many years with PPQ to identify PPQ works with many Tribal communities Over the years, Oregon’s PPQ staff has sites for insectaries and release insects that outside Montana on biocontrol agents. In provided the Confederated Tribes of the attack leafy spurge. By 2006, the weed’s Arizona, for instance, the program uses Umatilla Indian Reservation with training presence had dramatically diminished on weevils to help the Quechan Tribe cope and redistribution materials for 20 species the reservation. Even though leafy spurge with giant salvinia and a parasitic wasp to of biocontrol agents, targeting 12 different resurfaced after a 2011 flood damaged the control Asian citrus psyllid on Cocopah weeds. PPQ Nevada has partnered with community’s insectaries, PPQ, INCA, and the Tribal lands. the State Department of Agriculture to Tribes have continued their efforts and hope provide weed biocontrol agents to the to have the weed under control again within a Since 2002, PPQ’s Idaho office has funded Moapa Band of Paiute Indians. PPQ few years. the Nez Perce’s highly regarded biocontrol South Dakota supplies biocontrol facility, which rears agents in gardens, support for leafy spurge and other weeds In the meantime, Adams and his team are greenhouses, and laboratories; redis- on nine reservations; and in Wyoming,

strengthening current Tribal partnerships tributes them from field sites; and works PPQ cooperates with county weed and

and reaching out to form new ones. “New with State and county officials to advance pest districts to conduct biocontrol activi- biocontrol activities. ties on Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone Tribal lands. l

page APHIS page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 getting to know aphis associate administrator jere dick business process improvements, audits, In addition to Administrator Kevin Shea, To help you get to know them a little By Meghan Klingel operational plans, and the Administrator’s the agency’s Office of the Administrator better, we thought it would be interesting Top Ten priorities. includes two other agency leaders who for you to hear from them in their own influence APHIS’ day-to-day operations words. We sent each a set of questions What’s your most memorable and its greater vision and goals. and are sharing what we heard back. APHIS experience? I think my most memorable APHIS As Associate Administrators, both Jere In this issue, we feature Jere Dick, experience was working as the regional Dick and Mike Gregoire help shape our and in our next issue, we’ll run Mike incident commander for 9 months during actions today and prepare APHIS for Gregoire’s responses. l the exotic Newcastle disease outbreak in success in the future. 2003. We have great employees in APHIS, and I was able to work side-by-side with many highly committed employees to tackle When did you start working for What are your priorities during a very tough problem for the industry and APHIS? What made you decide to the next few months as APHIS States involved. start working here? Associate Administrator? I started working for APHIS in September There are two associate administrators, and What’s one thing that employees would 1988. After owning a clinical practice for 9 we both have our “spheres of influence” be surprised to know about you? years in Pomeroy, WA, I wanted to share within the APHIS community. I focus mainly Most employees see me in a suit and tie the skills I had developed in a broader on issues related to VS, Wildlife Services, during the work day. They’re surprised to public setting. One afternoon, an APHIS and International Services. I want to see pictures of me in boots and a cowboy veterinary medical officer (VMO) stopped continue to better understand those hat enjoying my horseback rides in the by my clinic, and we visited about his programs this coming year by being in- wilderness areas of the Northwest. That is statewide work. He encouraged me to ap- volved in their key initiatives. In addition, my quiet time! ply for the Public Veterinary Practice Career I enjoy the challenge of working to find program, I was accepted, and the rest is new efficiencies in our APHIS programs. Continued on next page a long journey through multiple jobs within Therefore, many of my new duties will focus Veterinary Services (VS) before I came to on leading and monitoring such areas as the Administrator’s Office. page APHIS page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 getting to know jere dick

Continued from page 3

What big changes do you see for APHIS future. To make performing them even more How do you start your day? How employees as we move through the 21st challenging, those skills will have to be does it end? century? What do you think employees carried out in a “virtual” environment. I start and end my day with a prayer. Each need to be ready for? day is a gift, and I hope to use it wisely. I think that rapid developments in technolo- What do you miss most about working in gy and automation will continue to drive the the field? What’s the accomplishment you are most way we do business. When I started as a I miss working with producers the most. proud of? field VMO in Montana, I stopped at a road- They are the lifeblood of agriculture, and I When asked this question, I know side telephone to check in with the office. always learned as much from them as they some might automatically think of their There were no cell phones, no pagers, and did from me. I am an outdoorsman, so I work accomplishments. However, I think no laptop computers. Laboratory testing also miss working outdoors. I am most proud of my family and those was conducted manually on glass plates or things that I have been able to do to on cardboard test strips. I can only imagine How do your years of experience in coach, mentor, and support them in where we will be in the next 25–30 years. private practice and working in the field their successes. Broad and advanced skill sets will also be shape how you approach your job as necessary as we work with industry and associate administrator? How do you like to spend your time away stakeholders. They are hiring highly skilled I think those years are invaluable in giving from the office? specialists, and we will need to be able to me a sound perspective of “operational In the outdoors, hiking, hunting, and fishing. talk to them at their professional level feasibility.” Certain policies may sound during the performance of our duties. good on the surface but may simply What’s the last book you read? be too difficult to implement or too Crazy Busy by Edward M. Hallowell, M.D. A leader must be equipped with the burdensome for industry. competencies necessary to perform his What is your favorite meal? or her role. Which competency do you Using the experience you’ve gained with My wife’s fried chicken and dumplings! think is the most important one for a APHIS over the years, what advice do you leader to have? wish you could go back and give yourself When you were a kid, what did you want I think both leading change and leading as a new APHIS employee? to be when you grew up? people will become more important in the Be sure to take time off work and A forest ranger. l recharge regularly.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 getting a grip on carpal tunnel recent aphis retirees By Ginger Dorsey Although it’s often associated with keyboard- ing and using a mouse, carpal tunnel Between August 1 and October 31, 2014, Shirley Frazier Winter Haven, FL syndrome isn’t exclusively a computer-related a total of 34 employees retired from the Carolyn Gethers Riverdale, MD injury. You may be at risk for developing symp- agency. We send our congratulations to Mateo Hernandez Edinburg, TX toms even if your job involves mostly handling each and wish them all the very best. Kathleen Kral Jacksonville, FL animals, driving, pipetting, or a host of other Paul Pang Honolulu, HI work tasks performed away from a desk. Lorinda Purcell Raleigh, NC August 1–October 31, 2014 Donald Robbins Winter Haven, FL Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the international services Carlos Rodriguez Mission, TX median nerve, which runs from the forearm Beverley Barber Riverdale, MD Alan Tamiya Honolulu, HI into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed Kelly Preston Tokyo, Japan or squeezed at the wrist. The median nerve veterinary services allows feeling and movement to parts of marketing and regulatory Timothy Beattie Ames, IA the hand. programs business services Barbara Carmona Eagle Pass, TX Carolyn Ballard Shelbyville, KY Zona Gabbard Cambridge, OH

This condition most often affects the hand Stephen Fuller Montgomery, AL Carl Grant Tuscaloosa, AL

and sometimes the forearm, but it can also Sandra Knutson Minneapolis, MN Phillip Lee Sumas, WA spread up to the shoulder. Symptoms include: Lynn McDonald Minneapolis, MN Dennis Page Riverdale, MD Celeste Sickles Riverdale, MD Regla Perez Miami, FL • Pain in your hand, forearm, or wrist that Margaret Thorson Minneapolis, MN Jamie Snyder Raleigh, NC awakens you at night. • Occasional tingling, numbness, or a policy and program development wildlife services “pins-and-needles” sensation (similar to Richard Fite North Hampton, NH Darlene Blaney Fort Collins, CO your hand “falling asleep”). Cherri Golden Mississippi State, MS • Weakness of the hand, leading to frequent plant protection and quarantine Brenda Harral Louisville, KY dropping of items. Jessie Baker Orlando, FL Howard Homan Bismarck, ND • Decreased sensation in the hand (more Cheryl B. Dean San Francisco, CA Jerry Twitty Yakima, WA l severe cases). Ann Ferguson Portland, OR Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 former aphis administrator harry c. mussman passes away

Continued from page 5 By Scott Moore Former APHIS Administrator Harry C. “In the early 1980s, there were three large Mussman died November 7 in Houston, TX, outbreaks of African swine fever in Haiti, a at age 84. As APHIS’ second Administrator, highly-pathogenic avian influenza outbreak, Mussman helped formalize the agency’s role and a big Medfly outbreak in California,” carpal in managing pest and disease outbreaks. said Shea. “Our success in those cases was important not only in the short term, but also tunnel Mussman joined APHIS in 1971 and helped demonstrate the need to expand the served as Associate Administrator under agency’s role in helping other nations deal To minimize symptoms of carpal tunnel Frank Mulhern between 1975 and 1977. with plant and animal health problems before syndrome, you can: As Administrator from 1980 until 1983, he pests and diseases reach the United States.” defined the agency’s organizational identity • Use correct hand and by formalizing the “APHIS Philosophy” of Mussman also helped bring about govern- wrist postures. participatory management and articulating ment–industry consensus on a brucellosis • Alternate tasks between the the agency’s core values, responsibilities, and eradication program, and he was chairman right and left hands. expectations. The result was an organizational of the USDA Boll Weevil Policy Group, which • Redesign workstations, tools, climate that enabled employees to work at guided development of the agency’s success- or tasks. their highest potential while maintaining open ful cotton insect management effort. communication with the agency’s constituents For assistance with your ergonomic and other interest groups. Early in his career, Mussman was an instructor concerns, contact the APHIS Ergo- and director of the clinical pathology labora- nomics Program at 301-436-3175 During Mussman’s tenure as Administrator, tory at Kansas State University, where he or submit a request form for an the agency dealt with several major foreign had earned two doctorates and a master’s ergonomic workstation evaluation. pest and disease outbreaks. Current Admin- degree. After his work at APHIS, he became istrator Kevin Shea and others credit Muss- USDA’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for More information is also available at man’s leadership for the agency’s successful Science and Education and Executive Vice the APHIS Ergonomics Program response and for further defining APHIS’ President for Scientific Affairs. Mussman later Web page. l significance as an organization. headed a company that provided sterilization services to the medical device, packaging, and food industries. l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 animal care partnership keeps stakeholders informed Sometimes 1 + 1 = 1000. “It helps us help them,” Gibbens added. “We questions made this a wonderful opportunity By Dave Sacks can also better train our [veterinary medical for everyone involved.” Animal Care and one of its many stakeholder officers] on these issues so that we’ll all be groups teamed up during the summer to host more uniform in our efforts.” Above all, the webinar reinforced a passion for a webinar addressing animal welfare issues animal welfare shared by the regulators and in biomedical research—resulting in 1,000 All facilities in the United States that use the regulated community. people directly involved in the care of labora- warmblooded animals for medical research tory animals gaining a better understanding of and testing, including universities and cos- “While the regulations do need to be interpret- APHIS regulations. metic companies to name a few, must be ed [by us] and followed [by the research registered with USDA. Animal Care upholds facilities], we all care deeply about the The National Association for Biomedical and enforces the Animal Welfare Act, which animals,” Gibbens said. “And a webinar like Research (NABR) seeks to provide a unified requires such facilities to provide their animals this speaks to that fact.” l voice for the scientific community on legis- with humane care and treatment. Animal Care lative and regulatory matters affecting lab inspects these facilities to make sure they are animal research. For the second year in a row, adhering to the regulations, but as this webi- NABR presented a webinar on USDA regula- nar shows, the program also educates tory oversight to its members. its registrants. the gift of “Getting the answers Betty Goldentyer and Robert Gibbens, Universities, private research companies, out in this public way directors of Animal Care’s Eastern and and research vendors from all over the warmth Western Regions, respectively, fielded and helps increase confidence country tuned in to the webinar. Information APHIS Policy and Program Development answered the questions for USDA. They in Animal Care’s shared during the webinar was subsequently recently hosted a coat drive in Riverdale delved into the details of the Federal regula- provided to all NABR members and Animal for the One Warm Coat/Vietnam Veterans inspection system” tions while also focusing the webinar on how Care’s inspectors. of America Association to provide winter lab researchers and technicians can provide –Andrea Morgan, Animal Care wear to homeless veterans. the best and most appropriate care to their “Getting the answers out in this public way facilities’ animals. helps increase confidence in Animal Care’s APHIS employees in Riverdale stepped up and donated more than 120 new “Getting direct feedback allows us to deter- inspection system, and it allows us to speak

and used coats, as well as 50 pieces of

mine the level of understanding on certain in ‘one voice’ to a very valuable stakeholder group,” said Andrea Morgan, Animal Care’s outerwear (sweatshirts, hats, scarves, issues and gives us the opportunity to clarify shoes, and gloves). Many thanks to all things,” Goldentyer said. associate deputy administrator. “Great audience participation and thoughtful who contributed. l

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click for One Health veterinary services information testing for salmonella in bearded dragons By Mandi Frederick For years, reptiles and amphibians have been NVSL assisted the CDC with an epidemiologi- isolates—all needing to be identified to find popular exotic pets. From kids fascinated with cal investigation after a cluster of outbreaks in out if they were, indeed, Salmonella. snakes to adults who are lizard connoisseurs, people of Salmonella Cotham and Kisarawe, the number of homes in the United States that two very rare serotypes. During interviews, Enter NVSL’s new MALDI-TOF Biotyper. house slithery friends is increasing. But what CDC found that 83 percent of those infected some pet owners may not know is that these had contact with reptiles. Further questioning Although its name is complicated, the MALDI- animals are natural carriers for Salmonella, indicated that bearded dragons could be the TOF is a machine that dramatically simplifies often carrying several different varieties of the source. CDC officials then visited pet stores the process of locating isolates. The Biotyper bacteria—called serotypes. and breeders where the people affected had software can analyze up to 380 bacterial colo- purchased bearded dragons. They collected nies per run and quickly tell scientists which Although carrying the bacteria rarely sickens fecal, egg, and environmental samples and isolates are Salmonella, greatly reducing the reptiles and amphibians, it can cause illness immediately contacted NVSL for help with time and expense associated with traditional in people if the right precautions aren’t taken. testing the samples. identification methods. Such risks of exposure to disease highlight the importance of the One Health initia- [state-of-the-art testing] After separating the Salmonella from the tive, which recognizes that the health of the Because lizards have Salmonella as part other bacteria, agency scientists still needed environment, animals, and people are deeply of their body’s normal bacterial makeup, or to determine the isolates’ serotypes to see connected. The One Health concept brings “microflora,” detecting these two very specific, which, if any, were Cotham and Kisarawe. together physicians, ecologists, and animal very rare isolates is like finding a needle in a Once again, NVSL’s cutting-edge technology health professionals in addressing public haystack. But as always, NVSL’s state-of-the- came in handy. health threats. art technology and laboratory personnel were up for the challenge. [matching the pattern] Just this past spring, APHIS’ National Veteri- Using a Luminex 200 molecular serotyping Kristina Lantz (top) uses the MALDI-TOF nary Services Laboratories (NVSL) and the For each sample, NVSL collected multiple system, laboratory scientists were able to Biotyper and Dana Barker (bottom) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention bacterial isolates, often as many as 16. This respond with speed. The Luminex system operates the Luminex 200 system to (CDC) joined efforts in response to a Salmo- initially produced more than 3,000 suspect can look at up to 90 samples in a run, swiftly conduct tests at NVSL. nella outbreak. Continued on next page

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 [ 9 ] 10 11 12 13 14 aphis fleet management on a roll Continued from page 8 By John Scott bearded dragons APHIS employees spend a lot of time behind team includes employees from each of the the wheel, logging thousands of miles each APHIS programs with vehicles, plus staff year. As you can imagine, all that driving from Marketing and Regulatory Programs analyzing and recognizing the different comes with a sizeable price tag. To help curb Business Services (MRPBS) and Policy and serotype patterns—each of which is costs and keep the agency rolling, APHIS Program Development. unique. NVSL scientists quickly identi- took a closer look—starting in 2011—and fied the patterns present in the samples found that our fleet management needed a Together, the team reviewed every step and found the rare Salmonella sero- tune-up. in the fleet management process—from types they were hunting for. purchasing vehicles, to maintenance, to the The APHIS fleet had grown to more than process for excessing or selling vehicles. It With APHIS’ test results, CDC was able 4,700 agency-owned cars/trucks/vans, a also validated the entire APHIS fleet inven- to confirm that pet bearded dragons figure that didn’t even include additional tory, program by program. And as the BPI were the source of the outbreaks. They agency-leased vehicles. The number simply team wrapped up its first year, it developed also learned that these serotypes are wasn’t sustainable, nor was it a good use of several products aimed at bringing clarity and very widespread in the pet bearded taxpayer dollars. consistency to the agency’s fleet manage- dragon population and have likely be- ment. Among other things, these products— come part of its normal microflora. [looking under the hood] expected to roll out this year—include a roles To get back on track, APHIS has taken and responsibilities document, an FAQ with After the investigation, CDC increased several steps to review and improve its fleet essential information, a training curriculum, its outreach efforts to let pet owners management. Beginning in 2011, APHIS’ and other guidance materials. know how to keep these rare Program Leaders Group (PLG)—made up of Salmonella serotypes from spreading. the associate deputy administrators from each Now in its second year, the BPI team will be NVSL also did followup testing for of the agency’s programs—began reviewing focusing on APHIS’ processes for reporting the affected bearded dragon breeders the agency’s fleet. And, more recently, APHIS out on its vehicles and forecasting agency to help them implement Salmonella launched a business process improvement fleet needs. control measures in their hatching and (BPI) project to focus on fleet management, rearing processes. l spanning fiscal years 2014–2015. The BPI Continued on next page

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fleet management in memoriam Continued from page 9 From August 1 through October of this year, our agency lost two When Wildlife Services (WS) needed 55 [savings and improvement] members of the APHIS family. With the combined efforts of the PLG, the vehicles for the new feral swine program, the agency’s fleet management community, and program looked internally to see what they We will miss them. Our thoughts the BPI team, the agency is now on a good already had in their inventory that wasn’t are with their families. road. Since 2011, APHIS has reduced its being fully utilized—and they asked other fleet by more than 750 vehicles. And since programs to do the same. As a result, WS veterinary services 2012, APHIS has decreased its annual fleet purchased only 33 new vehicles and obtained Lawrence Stotelmyre Ames, IA operating cost by just over $500,000. As the 22 from within APHIS’ existing fleet. changes take greater effect, agency savings wildlife services are expected to grow even more. [down the road] Justin Mann Lucile, ID l Going forward, the agency’s associate deputy Two other improvements came out of this administrators will play a more active role in overall effort, and they are designed to keep managing their respective fleets—including the APHIS fleet pointed in the right direction. vehicle purchases, allocations, and disposals. The PLG will also review the entire agency fleet on a semi-annual basis to ensure APHIS The agency created a new vehicle allocation John Scott, Editor methodology (VAM) to ensure our fleet stays stays on track. APHIS (301) 851-4068 at the right level. The VAM sets criteria for [email protected] the minimum amount of miles a vehicle If you have any fleet-related questions, please Photo sources: B. Morningstar (VS), W. Stokes (AC), M.Tadle (PPD), A.Torres (Cornell University), must be driven each year and requires each contact Fleet Manager Skip Bradford by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. program to develop a fleet management plan email ([email protected]) or by calling 612-336-3419. You can also visit Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving every year, along with a plan for allocating all APHIS employees by delivering agency news, its vehicles. the MRPBS Fleet Management Services providing useful workplace information, and SharePoint page for more information. l connecting employees from across the agency to our shared mission, common challenges, and Also, APHIS now has a new policy and pro- significant accomplishments. cess for reviewing inventories and transferring For information about contributing articles and vehicles between programs before purchas- photos, click here to visit us on My.APHIS. ing new cars. The policy has already yielded real benefits. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13 14 volunteer spotlight katy vernon

[employee name and program] [organization web site] [employee email] Katy Vernon www.fumcwestplains.com [email protected] l Animal Care Inspector www.umcburg.org Animal Care Missouri [volunteer organization] helping those in Jamaica Medical Mission; First United Methodist Church, West Plains, MO need in jamaica By Katy Vernon [organization mission] I knew I’d be helping people when I The mission and its associated clinic were Begun 15 years ago, the mission and its joined a local church’s medical mission started by Dr. Wallace Carpenter and his associated clinic offer medical services to Jamaica. I just didn’t know that one of wife, Diane, 15 years ago to offer medi- and provide medicine to the residents in the biggest benefactors would be myself. cal services and provide medicine to the Falmouth, Jamaica. residents in Falmouth, Jamaica. The First [volunteer activities] As an inspector with Animal Care, I United Methodist Church of Warrensburg, Vernon helped doctors, nurse practitioners, help ensure the welfare of the animals MO, organizes trips to the mission, and the and nurses at the mission clinic with pro- regulated under the Animal Welfare Act volunteers always come back with great cedures and with dispensing medications. and Horse Protection Act. I travel daily to stories. So I decided that I’d like to be a She also instructed patients on the use and zoos, commercial dog breeding kennels, part of it. Being a veterinary technician, I precautions of medications. and other licensed facilities throughout thought I’d have some skills that the medi- Missouri, making sure they are provid- cal teams could use. [time given] ing proper care and adhering to Federal Vernon volunteered for 8 days during the regulations. In February, a group of us from West mission trip. Plains, MO, set out for Falmouth. We I learned about the medical mission could only take carry-on bags on our flight from a neighbor, and I was intrigued. Continued on next page

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13 14 question In our last issue, we asked employees, “When is your most productive part of the day at work?” Continued from page 11 of the Here’s the percentage breakdown of the answers day we received. helping in

3% Evening When is your jamaica most productive 17% Late Afternoon part of the day because our checked baggage allotment was would not have received much-needed 9% Afternoon at work? used for medical supplies. During my week in treatments and medications. Volunteers also Jamaica, I assisted the clinic’s doctors in any taught carpentry skills, visited children in local way I could, including dispensing medicine 11% Middle of the Day Our thanks to everyone orphanages, and repaired desks and book- and helping with some medical procedures. shelves at the mission’s school. 34% Morning who responded to our last question. The people who came to the clinic were all 26% Early Morning My friends kidded me by saying that I was different ages, and they began arriving each going to Jamaica to lay on a beach. But it was day at daybreak. Many came from surround- so much more rewarding than that. Without ing areas using whatever transportation they question, it was an experience I’ll never forget. [next question please] could. Some waited up to 8 or 9 hours to see Some people are extroverts and feel more comfortable in groups and actually a doctor, but none complained. They were Serving others in need is life-changing, and I get energy from being in a group setting. Others identify more as introverts and friendly and so grateful to be there. In the think I understand that now more than before. prefer more individual time to reflect and recharge. And some people feel that United States people get cranky if they have they are a balance of both.. to wait in line, but there was none of that at Note: The mission has an ongoing need for the clinic. common medications—such as acetamino- With that in mind, we ask: Would you say that you are an introvert, extrovert, phen, ibuprofen, allergy/sinus medication, or a blend of the two? The patients had such love for the doctors. vitamins, antifungal skin creams, and antibiotic They would hug, and talk, and smile. I was • Introvert creams. Non-medical items are also needed, struck by the affection they showed and their • Extrovert including school supplies, prescription eye- resourcefulness. They are poor but make do • Blend of the Two glasses, soap, and other personal care items. with what they have. Some families live in Feel free to add your comment explaining why. shacks made from metal or plywood sheets If you would like to donate items, that wash ashore. They work very hard to get As always, thanks for responding and remember your participation is voluntary please contact: by, and that made a big impact on me. It has and confidential. made me far more grateful for all that I have. First United Methodist Church Share this link with your coworkers and encourage them to participate! Click here 141 E. Gay Street During the time I was there, we tended to 750 to take part in the poll: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/55R6XB5 l Warrensburg, MO 64093 patients. If not for the clinic, those patients Phone: 660-747-8158 l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] 14 did you know

Did you know that all APHIS more than 240 hours at the end of the Time and Attendace (T&A) ? employees have an important connection to leave year? If so, talk to your supervisor —Check on webTA New Orleans? And it has nothing to do with about options available for your “use or Leave Data Section the city’s famous food, music, or Mardi Gras. lose” time. • Do your leave balances in WebTA match It’s about your biweekly statement of earnings • Is the annual leave maximum carryover those on your statement? and leave. (“Max. C/O”) amount correct? Most full- • Time-Off Award (TOA): If you have any time employees can carry over 240 hours unused TOA hours, is the correct balance For all APHIS employees, these statements of annual leave from year to year. shown in the Leave Data section? are generated by our payroll office, the Na- tional Finance Center (NFC), located in New Mailing Address T&A Profile Section Orleans. The statements contain valuable • W-2 forms and other mailings are sent • Is your Service Computation Date correct? information about your earnings, with- to the address listed on your statement. • Is your personal leave ceiling correct? Most holdings, leave, and allotments. Is your address correct? If not, you can employees have an annual leave ceiling of update it using the MyEPP Web site. 240 hours. As an employee, you are responsi- • Annual Leave Accrual Rate: Are you in the ble for the accuracy of the infor- State/County/City Taxes correct annual leave category (4, 6, or 8 mation on your statement. So it’s • Is the correct State/county/city tax being hours)? a good idea to visit your Employee withheld (if applicable)? If you find errors with leave balances or Personal Page (EPP), available online information in webTA, please contact your at NFC’s MyEPP Web site, and view Benefits supervisor or servicing program assistant for your statement to make sure it’s accurate. • Review your benefits information (FEHB, guidance. Similarly, if you spot errors on your vision, dental, life insurance, and optional EPP and/or on your statement, contact your Links for MyEPP and other helpful resources life insurance) and the amounts deducted supervisor and the Human Resources pro- are also available on the My.APHIS Web site. to make sure they are correct. cessing associate who services your program

area. For a list of processing associates, [things to check] Allotments visit the Payroll/Personnel Processing Leave • If you have an allotment deducted from Web page. • Are your leave balances correct, and do your paycheck, please verify the money is they match those in WebTA? being deposited into the correct account at Remember—review your records every pay • Annual Leave: Is the balance going to be the appropriate financial institution. period and report any discrepancies quickly to minimize the impact of any errors you find. l

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manager profile with william stokes

[what is your background?] In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, I acceptance of alternative safety testing meth- deployed and worked with a large staff of ods that are more humane and use fewer or William S. Stokes I grew up on a farm in Fern Creek, KY, raising veterinarians and animal care personnel to no animals. The subsequent validation and Assistant Director mainly beef cattle and goats. I earned my B.S. rescue and shelter thousands of pets left be- regulatory acceptance of over 60 alternative Animal Welfare Operations degree from the University of Louisville and my hind after New Orleans was evacuated. Two test methods has greatly reduced laboratory Animal Care D.V.M. (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) degree weeks after the hurricane, we traveled into animal pain and distress and avoided the use Raleigh, NC from The Ohio State University. I served in the Army Veterinary Corps for 7 years, where I the eerily quiet dewatered city to survey and of thousands of animals. completed a laboratory animal medicine resi- search for any remaining animals. Accompa- dency and supported research on high-hazard nied by a SWAT team, we were able to rescue [last book read?] Undaunted Courage by Stephen E. Ambrose. viruses (including Ebola virus), bacteria, and additional animals from a research facility toxins at the U.S. Army Research Institute of and safely complete the mission. All involved [favorite meal?] Infectious Diseases at Fort Detrick, MD. were rewarded with the joy of seeing families NC-style BBQ pork, fried okra, collard greens, reunited with their rescued pets. corn bread, and banana pudding. I later transferred to the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service and worked [priorities in the coming months?] [guilty pleasure?] I look forward to encouraging our field teams at the National Institutes of Health as the ani- Ice cream and TV. mal program director and attending veterinar- to continue improving animal welfare and ian for two Institutes and as a center director compliance with the Animal Welfare Act. Our [hobbies?] veterinary medical officers and animal care at the U.S. National Toxicology Program. Spending time with my family, inspectors are uniquely positioned to leverage visiting National Parks, canoeing, their extensive knowledge and experience to [how long have you camping, and hiking. been with aphis?] improve animal welfare through education, I joined APHIS in June 2014. outreach, and inspections. [favorite movie?]

Apollo 13. l [most memorable [accomplishment most proud of?] APHIS experience?] While serving at the National Institutes of Since I’ve only been at APHIS a short time, I’d Health, I worked with 15 Federal agencies like to share an experience relevant to current and various stakeholder groups to establish APHIS emergency response goals. criteria and processes for the validation and

page United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Vol. 1, 2015 APHIS plant protection and quarantine in this issue click mobile apps— every picture tells Plant Protection and APHIS Publications: Quarantine: Mobile Apps— FY 2015 Deadline Coming Up 9 a story By Gary Roush Every Picture Tells a Story 1 Manager Profile Imagine that a Girl Scout hiking along a Ha- iPhones. The apps— Wildlife Services: with waiian beach spies a large beetle on a palm adapted and convert- Helping SNOW, Terry Morris 10 frond. Intrigued by the beetle’s unusual horn, ed from ITP’s existing Science, and she launches the “Palm Pests” app on her desktop identification Airports 3 Veterinary Services: smart phone. The app soon helps her identify products (see ID Techs it to the the insect as a coconut rhinoceros beetle, an Tools page)—help Staying Informed About Next Level 11 invasive species. She and her parents alert users identify APHIS e-File 4 State officials about the find. specific plant pests, In Memoriam 11 plant diseases, and Coming Soon: 101 Critical Meanwhile, a commercial crafts maker in Ohio noxious weeds. And, Days of Summer 4 Question of the Day 12 is evaluating samples of imported potpourri ITP expects to roll out more apps soon. for a new product he is designing. He wants Working with Animal Care: to know what’s in the mix. Using the “Dried For example, to support President Obama’s Velociraptors Safety Stand-Down Day 5 12 Botanicals” app on his iPhone, he identifies 2014 Memorandum, “Creating a Federal the species in the samples and chooses the Strategy to Promote the Health of Honey Getting to Know Did You Know 13 mix with the widest variety of floral elements. Bees and Other Pollinators,” ITP and its part- APHIS Associate ners are developing “Bee Mites ID,” for use in Administrator Recent APHIS Retirees 14 Although both of these incidents are fictitious, the field by entomologists, beekeepers, and Mike Gregoire 6 the identification tools described are not. others concerned about honey-bee health. Volunteer

Veterinary Services: Spotlight: They’re very real and very cool. [tech on your side] Avian Influenza 101 8 Bruce Thomsen 15 ITP’s primary mission is to support the plant [there’s an app for that] pest, disease, and noxious weed identification Last year Plant Protection and Quarantine’s needs of APHIS officials and State partners (PPQ) Identification Technology Program (ITP) released 10 phone apps for both Android and Continued on next page

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mobile apps

Continued from page 1 working to maintain the health of American [flexible identification searches] “ITP’s mobile agriculture and natural resources, as well The big advantage of a Lucid matrix- phone apps liberate as the flow of agricultural trade. This based identification key is that it allows anyone seeking to means ITP supports, among others, PPQ the user multiple access points to identify a specimen identifiers at Plant Inspection Stations, PPQ launch a search by choosing among from having to be near preclearance program staff stationed offshore, any of a specimen’s basic character- an Internet connection Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey officials, istics, (e.g., wing length, antennae and do not even require and participants in the National Plant shape, and body size), rather than phone reception,” added Diagnostic Network. having to follow a predetermined path Walters. required by more traditional, single-access ITP’s dedicated staff carries out their mission identification keys. The user first selects a ITP’s iPhone and Android phone mobile apps by developing a wide range of innovative, characteristic, then high-resolution photo- are free, and are available for download on the scientifically accurate, digital identification graphs and illustrations pop up for compari- ID Tools page. l resources. In addition to mobile apps, ITP son to the specimen. As each new choice develops products such as screening aids, is made, the software interactively narrows keys, pest factsheets, image galleries, and down the possibilities, arriving eventually at molecular diagnostics. the specimen’s family or species. The soft- may is aphis ware does not require familiarity with botanical ITP collaborates with the Nation’s expert ento- or anatomical terms, but expert users can coaching month mologists, botanists, and plant pathologists to employ their scientific knowledge to quickly Visit APHIS Coaching SharePoint Site ensure the accuracy of their content, images, drill down to the correct identification. and keys. “Keys” are identification tools that, and learn more about how APHIS is celebrating International Coaching Week, based on the features of an object, enable “In addition to serving the needs of govern- May 18- 22, 2015. identifiers to use a process of elimination to ment professionals, one of our main reasons pinpoint what the object is. Many of ITP’s for creating mobile phone apps is to empower You can register on the SharePoint site

products, including all of its mobile apps, are non-experts—including students, educators,

for events throughout the week. built around the powerful Lucid matrix-based and the general public—with access at The software interactively narrows keys software platform developed by the any time to expert information,” said ITP Watch your email for more information. l down the possibilities, arriving eventu- University of Queensland. Coordinator Terrence Walters. ally at the specimen’s family or species.

page APHIS page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 wildlife services helping SNOW, science, and airports Both the size and flight patterns of snowy SNOWstorm, which provided three transmitter [follow the birds] owls make them hazardous when they locate harnesses for owls captured during this past By Carol Bannerman You can follow the snowy owls trapped and to airfields. And, unfortunately, airfields are winter. Using multiple trap types, WS-Mich- released by WS-Michigan in conjunction with strong attractants to the visiting raptors. igan biologist Aaron Bowden (shown in owl this effort by visiting the Project SNOW- release photo) has caught 20 snowy owls in storm site and looking for “Alma,” “Prairie During the 2013-14 surge in the owls’ 2015, compared to 36 in last year’s irruption. Rhonde,” and “Buckeye.” Other WS airport- population—known as an irruption—Wild- captured owls have included Monocacy, life Services (WS) biologists trapped and Michigan DNR photographer David Baltimore, Philly, and Amishtown. relocated more than 100 snowy owls from Kenyon and Michigan Public Radio docu- airports where WS works to reduce aviation/ mented this capture-release. (More details are Also, see Michigan Public Radio’s Unlocking birdstrike hazards and cooperated with other available here.) the Secret World of the Snowy Owl. l biologists in moving even more (See Inside APHIS, Vol. 1, 2014).

An owl captured in January was this year’s first owl caught and outfitted with a radio transmitter harness by WS-Michigan personnel for Project SNOWstorm. The project, a collaborative effort involving numerous organizations and scientists, will provide valuable information on snowy owl behavior and movement.

Brian Washburn (shown right in tagging photo), of WS’ National Wildlife Research Center, coordinated WS’ efforts with Project

page APHIS page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 stay informed about aphis eFile

Progress continues as the agency works on Here are three key updates on the project: development work in November. Work By John Scott developing its new APHIS eFile system. When on the following program permitting complete, the system will provide APHIS 1. APHIS awarded the development con- tracks are underway: employees and stakeholders with the benefits tract for the new system to a company of a consolidated, streamlined, and flexible called Phase One Consulting Group, Inc. • Plant Protection and Quarantine: fruits system for the agency’s many certification, ac- The agency finalized the contract and vegetables creditation, registration, permitting, and other in September 2014 and began • Animal Care: live dogs licensing (CARPOL) activities. Continued on next page APHIS and its cooperators issue more than 500,000 CARPOL-type authorizations each year. Currently, eight separate information technology (IT) systems—as well as a number of manual processes—support these efforts. coming soon With APHIS eFile, APHIS seeks to improve efficiency through a more integrated solution. 101 critical [what’s the latest?] APHIS eFile is a complex project that will days of summer affect many programs, so it’s important for employees to stay both informed and On May 20, APHIS’ Raleigh office is host- days of summer due to the peak in involved. ing “The 101 Critical Days of Summer,” an injuries and dangers associated with emergency preparedness fair for agency outdoor activities and extreme summer Former Veterinary Services Chief Information employees as well as North Carolina State weather conditions. The fair is aimed Officer John Picanso recently joined University students, faculty, and alumni and at raising safety awareness and helping the effort and will serve as the project’s area businesses. area employees learn about available

program manager. community services.

The days between Memorial Day and The project’s first priority will be to focus on Labor Day have been called the 101 critical Watch My.APHIS and your email for the agency’s permitting process. more information. l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 animal care Continued from page 4 safety stand-down aphis eFile • Biotechnology Regulatory day Services: notifications Following an example set by the military, and repaired the vehicle’s worn suspension, • Veterinary Services: meats, Animal Care conducted its first-ever Safety improving its road safety. eggs, and dairy Stand-Down Day on March 23 so program By David Sacks employees could review overall safety prac- [hotlines and q&a sessions] 2. The process of developing APHIS tices and better understand the risks involved Throughout the day, the Council and its eFile will be lengthy. Its success in their jobs. liaisons in each part of Animal Care hosted a depends on employees and telephone hotline and virtual question-and- programs actively engaging in The Animal Care Safety, Health and answer session to respond to employees’ the project throughout the entire Wellness Council knows that stepping out of safety-related questions. process. Agency working groups, the everyday routine can be the best way for which include representatives from employees to assess safety issues on the job. “This was a very positive event,” said John each program, are currently For this reason, Animal Care scheduled no Lopinto, veterinary medical officer in New York focused on important aspects of routine work on Safety Stand-Down Day; who served as Council chair prior to Cooper. the permitting process. instead, program employees had uninterrupt- “We wanted all of our employees to reflect on ed time to refocus on job safety. “Animal Care the safety issues we are faced with every day 3. APHIS recently launched an managers see safety as a priority, so we used because nothing is more important than that.” updated CARPOL/APHIS eFile the day to make sure employees have all the SharePoint site. As the main tools necessary to be safe while performing By all accounts, Safety Stand-Down Day was information-sharing resource for their daily duties,” said Council Chair Natalie a success and will undoubtedly pay dividends the project, it’s the place to visit for Cooper, veterinary medical officer in Arkansas. in the months and years to come. updates, information, and to pose your questions. Among other activities, field employees “Whether you have been on the job for 25 reviewed the Animal Care Safety and Health years or just one year, it forced people to sit APHIS eFile will be an essential part of Manual, inspected their personal protective down and review the information available, the agency’s operations and a key equipment, and reviewed updated zoonotic which is always a good thing,” said Bryan fixture in the agency’s IT environment

disease materials. One inspector even took Irwin, an Animal Care inspector in Texas. and business processes. During its her vehicle to the dealership for a safety “I learned things that I didn’t know, and I also development, be sure to stay informed recall, and while there a mechanic discovered reviewed the things I already know.” l and stay involved. l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 getting to know aphis associate administrator mike gregoire What’s one thing that employees would APHIS Associate Administrators Mike But given their new roles, we wanted to be surprised to know about you? Gregoire and Jere Dick help lead the help you get to know each a little better. My career in food and agriculture began long agency’s day-to-day efforts and work to before I joined APHIS. When I was a boy, shape our actions and goals for the future. In our last issue, we ran a question-and- my brother, mother, and I were pictured in a answer piece with Jere Dick. In this issue, magazine advertisement for New York State Both have worked with APHIS for some we feature Mike Gregoire who discusses applesauce. I worked my way through college time and have collaborated with employ- his background, career development as a stock clerk and assistant manager in a ees on numerous projects over the years. advice, and his tips for winter driving.l grocery store.

What big changes do you see for APHIS When did you start working for start, and engage with employees to get employees as we move through the 21st APHIS? What made you decide to their ideas on ways to continue to make century? What do you think employees start working here? APHIS a high performing organization and a need to be ready for? I started working for APHIS as a budget ana- great place to work. I think the role that APHIS plays in contrib- lyst in July 1978. I majored in political science uting to global food security is going to and was interested in a public administration What’s your most memorable be hugely important. Advances in agricul- career in the Federal Government. I got a APHIS experience? tural technology and information technology good score on the Federal civil service exam I’ve been lucky to have many great experi- will provide tools that we probably can’t and that’s how APHIS got my name and ences in APHIS. One that stands out for me even imagine at this point. Employees will invited me for an interview. was working together with the Department of need to keep abreast of scientific and Justice and then going to the Supreme Court technological developments. I think What are your priorities during of the United States to hear oral arguments employees will also need to be ready for the next few months as APHIS in the Monsanto Company versus Geertson many leadership opportunities and Associate Administrator? Seed Farms case. The case involved a regula- challenges in the coming years. My three top priorities in the coming tory decision APHIS had made on genetically months are to advance the agency’s alter- engineered alfalfa. I never imagined having natives to rulemaking strategies, get the that opportunity when I started here. Continued on next page APHIS eFile implementation off to a good page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 aphis associate administrator mike gregoire

Continued from page 6 A leader must be equipped with the influenced how I approach my current job. advance a particular project or bring an competencies necessary to perform his Those jobs exposed me to and gave me an issue to resolution, or identifying key points or her role. Which competency do you appreciation for the challenges of leading a I’d like to make in remarks I’ve been asked think is the most important one for a program unit and a support unit. Both jobs to give at an event. The last thing I do leader to have? involved using leadership skills and engag- before I leave the office is look at the traffic Leaders get their work done through oth- ing with internal and external stakeholders, map before I begin my commute home. ers, so to me leading people is the most interagency partners, and senior policy important competency—that includes officials to get things done—all of which What’s the accomplishment you are having a vision and goals, choosing the are important aspects of the associate most proud of? right people for the job, giving them the administrator job. With my wife Jane, raising three great chil- resources and support they need to get dren. I’m grateful that APHIS family friendly the job done, ensuring accountability, and Using the experience you’ve gained with policies made it possible to balance my celebrating their successes. APHIS over the years, what advice do you work and family life. wish you could go back and give yourself As a native of Buffalo, NY, do you have as a new APHIS employee? How do you like to spend your time away any winter driving tips—especially for Learn how your work contributes to the from the office? D.C. area employees? agency mission and be the best at it you I love playing golf, ice hockey, and tennis and Telework and stay off the roads if you can. can be. Take initiative. Avail yourself of the spending time with our family and friends. If you have to drive, make sure your car has many opportunities APHIS has to offer to good tires, windshield wipers, and washer broaden your perspectives and experience. What’s the last book you read? fluid. Wear your seatbelt. Drive slow to Those opportunities include training, devel- The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara, avoid going into a skid, and don’t text opmental and collateral duty assignments, a historical novel about the battle and drive! special projects, networking, mentoring and of Gettysburg. field trips, to name a few. Which of your prior jobs with APHIS has What is your favorite meal? had the most influence on how you ap- How do you start your day? How does Buffalo wings, of course. proach your job as Associate Administra- it end? tor? In what way? I like to start the day by scanning the news When you were a kid, what did you want My previous two jobs as deputy administra- and then thinking and preparing for what’s to be when you grew up? tor for Biotechnology Regulatory Services ahead. That might include reading in prepa- A major league baseball player. l and Policy and Program Development most ration for meetings, thinking about how to page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [ 8 ] 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 veterinary services avian for latest news influenza 101 click and information

By Kira Metz Avian influenza is again making headlines with with sick or dead birds. Currently, there is no Some strains of AI are more deadly and more recent detections in the United States. For evidence that AI can spread efficiently and infectious than others. AI might go unnoticed many people following the news coverage, it’s in a sustained manner person-to-person. in a wild bird population because ducks and easy to get lost in the acronyms and abbre- Eggs and poultry are safe to eat when cooked geese are typically the carrier species and viations associated with the disease—HPAI, to recommendations. usually do not show signs of disease; how- LPAI, H5N2, H5N8 and so on. And, as with ever, when transmitted to densely populated most things, the fine points matter. Getting AI spreads around the world through wild domestic flocks, some AI strains can cause the distinctions is important to understanding bird migration and the movement of infected widespread disease and mortality. AI viruses the potential impact on U.S. agriculture and birds. There are two main classifications of in poultry with any viral subtypes that start human health. the AI virus in poultry: highly pathogenic avian with H5 or H7 are of particular concern be- influenza (HPAI) and low pathogenic avian cause H5 and H7 subtypes can mutate from To disentangle common terms and provide influenza (LPAI). Pathogenicity is the ability of LPAI to an HPAI virus. basic information that will help you follow the a virus to produce disease. latest news, we offer this brief overview about APHIS and State Departments of Agriculture the disease. Generally, the HPAI strains cause severe have made good progress overseeing and disease and death in birds, and the LPAI regulating commercial bird movements in the Avian influenza (AI), known informally as bird strains cause only mild disease or no United States to avoid transmission of dis- flu, is an infectious disease spread by influ- symptoms at all. Subtypes of the AI virus are ease. However, viral transmission from wild to enza type A viruses. The disease is a concern classified based on two proteins on the viral domestic birds is more difficult to predict. because it threatens birds in our food supply surface: the “H” and the “N” protein. Each (e.g., chickens, turkeys, ducks, and quail). combination of these two proteins is con- APHIS and its cooperators respond to U.S. Veterinary Services’ Chrislyn Wood sidered a different viral subtype (e.g., H5N2, outbreaks of AI with extensive investigations collects a swab sample for testing. AI predominantly affects birds but has been H5N8, etc.), and subtypes are further broken into the causative viral pathogen and with known to jump to people in rare, isolated down into different viral strains from there. As efforts to help prevent its spread. APHIS also cases—mainly overseas in Asia, Africa, with many kinds of infectious disease caused Europe, and the Middle East—where people by viruses, the mutation possibilities of an AI Continued on next page have been infected when working closely virus are endless.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 [ 9 ] 10 11 12 13 14 15 aphis publications FY 2015 deadline coming up

As is the case with end-of-year All of these steps must be completed You can direct requests to an LPA public af- publications procurement deadlines, there are also before the May 21 submission deadline. fairs specialist or the designated publications deadlines around the production of contact for your program area. For a contact deadline communications materials. So, if you have outreach needs, don’t wait: list and other useful resources about the pub- may 21 Contact LPA today to get started. lications process, go to LPA’s Publications This year, all complete submission packages page on the APHIS Intranet. l for FY 2015-funded publications are due to Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA) by May 21, 2015. This deadline applies to professionally printed avian Continued from page 8 publications (brochures, custom factsheets, etc.), as well as posters, displays, and other influenza 101 outreach materials that require contracted design work or printing services. conducts ongoing outreach with poultry the United States do not affect people and The deadline does not apply to standard farmers and backyard flock owners to have only caused illness in birds. APHIS factsheets published online only or encourage them to practice good bios- to administrative publications (i.e., technical ecurity and to report sudden bird deaths Detection updates are posted regularly manuals or other materials used solely by to veterinarians, the USDA, and State online. For updates and to read more USDA personnel and/or official cooperators). departments of agriculture. about AI, visit Veterinary Services AI Web page or USDA’s new AI page. LPA staff will work with you to develop and The recent detections of HPAI began in

gather submission package materials. This mid-December 2014 and have included And to learn more healthy poultry

includes discussing concept, drafting text, finds in U.S. captive wild birds, backyard practices, visit APHIS’ Biosecurity for selecting photos, identifying funding, and poultry and commercial poultry opera- the Birds. l completing the paperwork needed to start tions. Fortunately, the strains detected in formal clearance and production.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 ] 11 12 13 14 15

manager profile with terry morris [what is your background?] position of director for PPQ’s husband of 25 years: our son, David Alan I was born in Baltimore, MD. My dad had a Quarantine Policy, Analysis and Morris, Jr., 24, is my most proud accomplish- house built on half an acre of Estep family Support staff. ment. As an only child, David Jr.—nicknamed Terry A. Morris land, and he moved the family and the family “DJ”—has always been exceptional. Fitting [most memorable into that category of being “a good spoiled” Director dog, Charlie (a Cockerpoo) to Dunkirk, MD, to aphis experience?] Quarantine Policy, live closer to our paternal grandparents. child, his childhood and adolescent years Perhaps my most memorable APHIS Analysis and Support were fairly uneventful. He is now a graduate experience is associated with my Plant Protection and Quarantine As you may imagine, we loved Charlie, and of the University of Maryland at College Park, when Charlie died, I wanted to know why. position as acting director for PPQ’s working a fulltime job, engaged to a wonder- I asked my dad to pay money to help find Phytosanitary Issues Management. As acting ful young lady, and working to build his out why Charlie died, but that was not an director, I participated in the European Union own business in financial management. option in those days. As a result of this Bilateral Meeting in Brussels. This was my first He continues to make his positive mark situation, I vowed, at the tender age of 6, international trip (excluding Canada), and it on society. to become a veterinarian. afforded me the honor of representing APHIS as part of the APHIS delegation; it gave me [last book read?] I received my undergraduate degree in the opportunity to refine my political savvy The Mentor Leader by Tony Dungy biology from then Salisbury State University and negotiating skills, and it enabled me to in 1988 and my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine enjoy Brussels after hours. [favorite meal?] from Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Grilled salmon and broccoli. [priorities in the coming months?] Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, in 1993. [guilty pleasure?] After graduation, I worked for USDA’s Food There are many, including: working Chocolate ice cream. Safety and Inspection Service for 7 years with my colleagues to enhance PPQ’s before accepting a position with APHIS Veteri- Agriculture Quarantine Inspection program; [hobbies?] implementing a Veterinary Medical Officer nary Services (VS) in Riverdale, MD. Teaching the children (ages 5–12) that rotate Exchange Program between PPQ through my church’s Children’s Church [how long have you and VS; and strengthening the working Ministry program; learning American Sign been with aphis?] relationship between APHIS and Customs Language and to play the alto saxophone. In 2001, I joined VS and transferred to APHIS and Border Protection. Plant Protection and Quarantine’s (PPQ) [accomplishment most proud of?] [favorite movie?] Veterinary Regulatory Support unit in 2007. Pretty Woman with Julia Roberts Co-piloting this accomplishment with my In December 2012, I was promoted to the and Richard Gere.l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13 14 15 veterinary services techs it to the next level As part of APHIS’ continuing effort to VS is the first APHIS program to implement leverage technology, Veterinary Services electronic signature. The program is using it in memoriam (VS) has implemented an electronic signature to improve how it handles the high volume of By Tanika Whittington service that allows the program to digitally livestock crossing U.S. borders. From November 1, 2014, through streamline processes and eliminate paper- February of this year, our agency lost Livestock import and export involves multiple based processing. four members of the APHIS family. We documents and signatures for each animal. will miss them. Our thoughts are with e-SignLive, the newly adopted electronic VS has incorporated the electronic signa- their families. signature technology, allows VS users ture technology into its Veterinary Services to legally and securely sign and send Process Streamlining application, used to animal care documents—anywhere, anytime, from any process both livestock imports and exports. Martha Hefner Raleigh, NC Web-enabled device, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. [getting results] The program is already seeing positive results. plant protection and quarantine [saving time] The technology is improving how quickly VS Jack Gable Buckeye, AZ “This technology has reduced the [timing of] can move internal and external documents, signing and sending of documents from days conduct field transactions, locate animals, wildlife services to hours,” said VS’ Patrick McFall, one of the and track their movement. Daniel Garcia, Jr. Alice, TX project managers for the implementation. Marshall Murphy Leedey, OK “Although VS is the first [program] in APHIS The electronic signature eliminates the need to use this technology, other areas in the Special Note: We received word from to print, fax, scan, or ship documents, es- agency—like Plant Protection and Quarantine the family of retired APHIS employee sentially replacing the pen and paper with and the agency’s Certification, Accreditation, Terry Hall that he passed away on an electronic “fingerprint.” This “fingerprint” Registration, Permits, and other Licensing February 10, 2015. Terry, who retired validates the integrity and authenticity of the (CARPOL) project—are already looking to from Policy and Program Development signer and the document. With this technol- integrate eSignLive into their applications,” in 2011, was widely known throughout ogy, any change made after the document said McFall. l the agency for his dedication and his has been signed invalidates the signature, work each year with APHIS’ Combined protecting the program against forgery and Federal Campaign efforts.l tampering with documents. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13 14 15 question of the day

In our last issue, we asked employees, With that in mind, we ask: What do you do “Would you say that you are an introvert, most often for your lunch break? extrovert, or a blend of the two?” • I don’t take a break working Would you say that • Eat at my desk you are an introvert, Here’s the percentage breakdown of the answers we received. • Eat lunch away from my desk with extrovert, or a blend • I eat on the run of the two? • Exercise velociraptors 55% Is it a rhea or a dinosaur? Introvert 33% Feel free to add your comments about Blend of your preference. Find out here by reading a story of grit the Two and humor from the field. 12% As always, thanks for responding and re- Extrovert member your participation is voluntary For more stories, visit VMO Observer, and confidential. a Veterinary Services SharePoint site well worth a bookmark in your browser. Share this link with your coworkers and The site offers something for non-veter- encourage them to participate! Click here to inarians and veterinarians alike. Our thanks to everyone who responded to take part in the poll: Question of the Day.l our last question. Please note that the site has [next question please] recently moved, so if you already have Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in your it bookmarked, be sure to update the work and lose track of time, especially if your link. Click here if you’d like to sub- workload is heavy and growing heavier. Other scribe to the biweekly VMO Observer times, you may find that you just fall into a digest email. Caution: Along with routine of not taking breaks, including not humor, some pages also contain case leaving your desk for lunch. reports—some with graphic diagnostic images of animals. l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] 14 15 did you know

Did you know that the • Gmail • ? Presidential and Federal Records Act • Hotmail Amendments of 2014 have an important • Zoho effect on how you can conduct official • Yandex business for APHIS? • Outlook.com • Agreements, memoranda, non-disclosure • iCloud statements, etc., for signature; President Obama signed the new amend- • Yahoo • APHIS employees, who are teleworking or ments on November 26, 2014. The follow- • Inbox.com are on travel status and in the course of ing month, on December 29, 2014, USDA’s • Any other commercially available webmail/ their official duties, need to send docu- Acting General Counsel Jeffery Prieto emailed SMTP/IMAP-based email services ments or official information to their per- a memo to all employees concerning the sonal or private account in order to be able new law; on January 12 of this year, APHIS Examples of social media include, but are to work. Employees are required to also Chief Information Officer Gary Washington not limited to: copy their official government email with followed up with another all-employee any official information or documents they • Twitter e-mail that provided more details. send to their personal or private email. • Facebook • Teleworking employees may print Here’s what the new law means for • Tumblr official documents and information APHIS employees. • Pinterest when they telework. • Snapchat [what you need to know] • Instagram The new law also created severe penalties Employees may not use their personal for failure to follow its requirements. Intention- or private email accounts or any social There are several exemptions to the law, ally sending official APHIS documents and media format for official business. including the following staffs and situations: information to your personal/private email This means you cannot copy, forward, text, • Public Affairs and other staffs approved account or posting on social media is a or send official APHIS documents or official for legal and electronic dissemination of basis for disciplinary action, up to and information from your government email to official information; including removal. your personal or private email account. • APHIS employees who, in the course of If you have any technical questions about You also may not post official documents or their official duties, need to send docu- the policy, please contact Michele Thomas, information to any social media format. ments or official information to vendors or APHIS’ Chief Information Security Officer at contractors such as, but not limited to: [email protected]. l Examples of personal or private accounts • Statements of Work or Statements include, but are not limited to: of Objectives;

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 [ 14 ] 15 recent Between November 1, 2014, and February Patricia Brown Austin, TX veterinary services aphis 28, 2015, a total of 86 employees retired from Wayne Claus Beltsville, MD John Belfrage Fort Collins, CO the agency. Iris Colon Carolina, PR Cheryl Bovee Indianapolis, IN Joyce Cousins Riverdale, MD Edwin Bowers, Jr. Laredo, TX retirees We send our congratulations to each and Stephanie Droke Little Rock, AR Annie Broughton Gainesville, FL wish them all the very best. Peggy Goble Prattville, AL John Cougill Raleigh, NC Shan He Oakland, CA Laurier Couture Ames, IA August 1–October 31, 2014 John Helbig Pierre, SD Nancy Feagle Gainesville, FL animal care Nancy Lebedzinski Worcester, MA Priscilla Fitzmaurice Fort Collins, CO Manuel Adviento Anaheim, CA Norma Lopez Edinburg, TX Karen James Preston Riverdale, MD Frances Binkley Fuquay Varina, NC Carolyn Mallory Riverdale, MD Kelsey Johnson Del Rio, TX Kevin Bolin Raleigh, NC Clemmie McCants Sarasota, FL Barbara Kesl Ames, IA Charles Currer Magnolia, TX Timothy Miller Lincoln, NE Alison King Jefferson City, MO Doris Hackworth Shacklefords, VA Stacey Peacock Avon Park, FL Justin Krause Highgate Springs, VT Steven Nusbaum Queensbury, NY William Pearce, Jr. Vero Beach, FL David Liles Sulphur Springs, TX Carlos Perez Atlanta, GA Raul Martinez Miami, FL international services James Perkins Harlingen, TX Wayne McCutchen Brownsville, TX Edward Gersabeck Riverdale, MD Scott Redlin Raleigh, NC Steven Melancon San Antonio, TX Eleanora Lassiter Riverdale, MD Eustorjio Rivas, Jr. Edinburg, TX Donald Otto Knoxville, IA Janice Rokos Riverdale, MD Laura Rudd Riverdale, MD Walter Peck Helena, MT Alba Sanchez Montalvo San Juan, PR Margaret Robinson Gainesville, FL marketing and regulatory Lena Soileau Riverdale, MD programs business services Osvaldo Saenz Mission, TX Charles Tatham Epping, NH David Silberman Troutdale, OR Gloria Benson Minneapolis, MN Clarence Toguchi, Jr. Honolulu, HI Stephen Weber Fort Collins, CO Carolyn Browne Minneapolis, MN Sonia Valentin Mayaguez, PR John Wiemers Galesburg, IL Lan Anh Dao Riverdale, MD Evelyn Vargas See Gainesville, FL Robert Williams Olympia, WA Donald Donnell Ames, IA William Wade, Jr. Frederick, MD Deborah Helseth Minneapolis, MN Eileen Welch Riverdale, MD wildlife services Lisa Roach Minneapolis, MN Deborah Winograd Otis AFB, MA John Bouchard Harlowton, MT Joann White Riverdale, MD Joan Withycombe Long Beach, CA Phyllis Brown Fort Collins, CO plant protection and quarantine Derek Yamamoto Honolulu, HI Diana Dwyer Fort Collins, CO Ronald Yasuda Honolulu, HI Scott Evens Granville, ND Howard Baba Honolulu, HI Donald Yeutter Long Beach, CA Jon Heisterberg Raleigh, NC Erick Babilonia Edinburg, TX Rodney Young Beltsville, MD Charles Jones Silver City, NM George Linz Bismarck, ND l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 [ 15 ] volunteer spotlight bruce thomsen

[employee name and program] positive team environment, and improve their [time given] Bruce Thomsen soccer skills and physical fitness. In 2013-2014, Thomsen volunteered more Supervisory Veterinary Medical Officer than 150 hours. He has been a Kiwanis Club Pathobiology Laboratory [volunteer activities] member for 13 years and has served as board As president of the Kiwanis Club, Thomsen National Veterinary Services Laboratories member, vice-president, president-elect, and led weekly 6:30 a.m. meetings to help guide Veterinary Services president. He currently serves as past-presi- the efforts of the club’s many active members. Ames, IA dent. In the soccer club, Thomsen has been a Because of the club’s major projects and coach for more than 20 seasons and a board other activities to assist youth in the commu- [volunteer organization] member for the past 2 years. Kiwanis Club of Nevada, Iowa nity, members work a lot on fundraising. The Nevada Soccer Club The club’s largest fundraising projects are [organization web site] growing, picking, and selling sweet corn http://www.nevadakiwanis.org/ [organization mission] in the summer and recycling community http://nevadasoccer.org/ The core mission of the Nevada Kiwanis donated cans and bottles year round. The Club’s 50 members is to serve and improve club receives, sorts, and recycles more than [employee email] the lives of children, both in Nevada and 5,000 cans each month—earning 5 cents for [email protected] l throughout the world. The club works on every can/bottle recycled. a variety of service projects; members donate their time to educational, safety, Volunteering with the Nevada Soccer Club, John Scott, Editor nutrition, and leadership projects, and to Thomsen feels lucky to have coached all three APHIS (301) 851-4068 [email protected] fundraising. Currently, the club’s two largest of his daughters. He currently coaches his multiyear fundraising projects are to help pay youngest daughter’s U-12 team, focusing not Photo sources: Anson Eaglin (LPA), David Kenyon (Michigan-DNR), Bruce Thomsen (VS), USDA, only on soccer skills but also on sportsman- for the new Nevada High School Auditorium Terrence Walters (PPQ), Chrislyn Wood (VS). ship and on being a good teammate. and—working with Kiwanis International and Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving UNICEF—to eliminate maternal and neonatal all APHIS employees by delivering agency news, tetanus worldwide. As a soccer club board member and equip- providing useful workplace information, and ment director, Thomsen volunteers time to connecting employees from across the agency to our shared mission, common challenges, and The goal of the Nevada Soccer Club is to building the growing club and to equipping significant accomplishments. more than 300 kids and coaches with the provide youth (ages 4–18) with the opportu- For information about contributing articles and nity to play recreational soccer, be part of a gear their teams need for practice and games. photos, click here to visit us on My.APHIS.

page United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Vol. 2, 2015 APHIS highly pathogenic in this issue click avian influenza— preparing for fall Highly Pathogenic Avian In Memoriam 11 Influenza—Preparing for Fall 1 By John Scott Plant Protection and APHIS on the Quarantine: Pilot Program Since December 2014, the outbreak of June 17, APHIS is putting tremendous Scene with Avian Helps Users highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has effort into planning with our partners for the Influenza 3 Bring the ‘Right Stuff’ 12 impacted egg and turkey producers across potential reemergence of the disease this fall. multiple States. It has killed nearly 50 million Realistically, the agency and its partners must New APHIS Customer Question of the Day 13 birds in what has been called the worst animal consider the potential worst case scenario Call Center 5 health disease emergency this country has and plan with that possibility in mind. Weighing Options with ever seen. Plant Protection and Regulatory Enforcement 14 “We believe the threat of detections and dis- Quarantine: Weaving Tribal Over the course of response so far, more ease is real for all of our top broiler-, turkey-, Relations with Did You Know 15 than 600 APHIS employees have deployed and layer-producing States: California, where Nonregulatory Solutions 6 and worked with more than 2,000 contracted we first found HPAI in commercial turkeys; Recent APHIS Retirees 16 personnel and State and industry cooperators across the Midwest from Nebraska to Ohio; Wildlife Services: around the clock in affected States. APHIS and across the South and East from Texas to Trapping Expertise Manager Profile: has committed over $190 million in indemnity Delaware,” said Associate Administrator Jere Goes Global 8 Michelle payments to producers to control the spread Dick during a recent HPAI planning workshop. Wenberg 17 of disease and help them recover. Volunteer Spotlight: “We’re not saying any of this will happen. Ralph Davis 9 Plant Protection and APHIS has received more than $700 million We’re saying it could happen. But given the Quarantine: Understanding in emergency funding from the Commodity events of the past few months, could is some- Animal Care: International Standards 18 Credit Corporation to address the outbreak— thing we take very seriously,” added Dick. Veterinarians Aim including providing compensation for produc- for Specialty Board ers and cleaning and disinfecting premises— [preparations underway] Certification 10 and to plan for potential outbreaks in the fall. During the recent APHIS Virtual Town Hall (audio clip available), Administrator Kevin Shea Although we have not seen any new talked about the fall planning underway. He HPAI cases at a commercial facility since Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 [ 2 ] 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

preparing for fall

Continued from page 1 discussed, for example, the ongoing prepara- [what you can do] • Participate in the August 13th open tions concerning how the agency would Volunteers are still needed. If interested, you house panel discussion to hear about pre-position people and equipment and our can find more information onMy.APHIS. the experiences of other employees who work to identify available landfills. have deployed. Watch your email and The agency has taken steps to improve My.APHIS for more information. l The agency is also in the process of trying its ability to track volunteer availability for to hire more than 300 term employees in deployment and to improve the lead time for Veterinary Services (VS). The employees notifying volunteers about deployment dates. would be prepared for quick response and to work in advance with industry and States John Scott, Editor A critical component of the agency’s response APHIS (301) 851-4068 to bolster biosecurity measures. and planning will continue to be APHIS’ [email protected] dedicated employees. The agency will need Additionally, APHIS is working on how we the support of all of its employees to meet Photo sources: Anson Eaglin (LPA), Kerri Goust (VS), Esther Kukielka (WS), Michael Marlow (WS). would deploy employees in the fall. Under this challenge and to continue protecting the the current response, only VS’ Surveillance, Basket photo by Drew Harty, provided courtesy of health of our Nation’s poultry. the Akwesasne Museum. Preparedness and Response Services (SPRS) section has had mandatory deployments, with Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving As you think about deployment, here are all APHIS employees by delivering agency news, the balance of the agency’s needs handled some things you can do: providing useful workplace information, and through voluntary deployments. connecting employees from across the agency to our shared mission, common challenges, and • Meet with your supervisor and talk about significant accomplishments. “We are now working at the management your availability and possible deployment For information about contributing articles and level on a plan of how we might have full dates. photos, click here to visit us on My.APHIS. agency activation for the fall, which might • Talk to people you know who have require more people to deploy,” said Shea. already deployed and ask about their He encouraged employees to share their experience. thoughts regarding a full agency activation • Think about what preparations you would with their supervisors or through the Tell Us need to make in your personal life. What You Think comment box. • Review the Employee Volunteer Q&A on My.APHIS.

page APHIS page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 aphis on the scene with avian influenza

Sometimes the best way to learn more about As a preview, we’ve included one of If you’re thinking about deployment, be sure something is to hear from someone who has the “APHIS on the Scene” pieces here in to watch My.APHIS and participate in the been there, someone with experience. As Inside APHIS. upcoming open house in August.l APHIS prepares for the potential reemergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) this fall, agency planners want to give you that chance. kelsey branch What was your role/job On August 13, APHIS will host an open while deployed? house featuring a panel of employees who I served as an Emergency Management completed 21-day deployments for the Response System (EMRS) specialist agency’s HPAI response. Panel members— under the Industry Coordination Branch from throughout the agency’s program in the Operations Section. EMRS is the areas—will talk about their experience and database used to track foreign animal share their insights. APHIS staff will also be on disease investigations. I worked closely Go Outside hand to answer questions about the agency’s with the group supervisors and contrac- response and deployment. tors at the HPAI Incident Command What program do you work for and Post to collect and record data related what is your position/job title when

For detailed information on The event will be available to field locations to depopulation, disposal, and cleaning

not deployed? partipating in the panel via videoconference, webinar, and and disinfection activities at all infected I work for Plant Protection and Quarantine discussion, CLICK HERE. conference call. premises in Iowa. in Riverdale, MD, as an agriculturist.

In addition, we plan to run short pieces on What advice would you have for Where and when were you deployed? My.APHIS featuring employees sharing in others who deploy? I was deployed from June 8–30. I spent their own words a little about their experience My advice would be to be proactive, the first week of my deployment in while deployed. forge connections with the people you Worthington, MN, and the last 2 weeks in Ames, IA. Continued on next page

page APHIS page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 aphis on the scene with avian influenza

meet, and try to learn and absorb as much as Did the experience enrich your under- Along those same lines, one of the most kelsey branch possible. It will help you see and find ways to standing of the work APHIS does? How? rewarding parts of my deployment was the Continued from page 3 contribute that others might miss. Definitely—the experience exposed me to a sense of camaraderie that developed among completely different side of APHIS. I do not everyone working at the Incident Command I made it my goal to jump in and make the have a veterinary background and, prior to my Post. Because of the long hours, my cowork- most of my time there. The hours are very deployment, had never been involved with an ers became a little 3-week family. The entire long and the days will start to mesh together, emergency program. group would come together to celebrate but being engaged and an active contributor birthdays, Father’s Day, and anniversaries. l makes the experience much more worthwhile. However, I was able to get up to speed quickly upon arriving at the Incident What skills and/or personal traits were Command Post and start making meaning- most helpful during your deployment? ful contributions to the response. I feel like a The most important traits would be adaptabil- more well-rounded employee as a result of ity, openness to change, and an eagerness my deployment. training to learn. An emergency is a very dynamic environment; things can change drastically What were the challenges and what were calendar from one day to another. the rewards? The most difficult part was the work schedule The APHIS Training and What was it like working with others you and maintaining a semblance of balance. Development Calendar provides hadn’t worked with previously? updated listings for agency training Deployments are an excellent way to increase We worked 12-hour days, 7 days a week. A courses; the calendar includes dates, your professional network. I met so many work-life balance doesn’t really exist under times, staff contact information, and wonderful people while in Iowa—it was a tre- those conditions, but it was very important course descriptions. mendous experience to work so closely with to me to continue exercising regularly, eating

APHIS employees from all over the country, healthy, and getting a good amount of sleep For more information, visit the Center

the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land every night. for Training and Organizational Stewardship, and two contracting companies: Development SharePoint site. l Witt O’Brien’s and Clean Harbors.

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 new aphis customer call center With more than 900 calls during its first month clear lines of communication and coordinate The Call Center is committed to delivering and over 1,000 calls in its second, the new how to handle calls. With import/export a high level of service to our many APHIS Customer Service Call Center is off to topics, for example, the APHIS Call Center stakeholders. Program specialists are avail- a busy start. provides general information and then directs able at (844) 820-2234, Monday through incoming calls to the appropriate program call Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Each day the center handles a wide range of By Tanika Whittington centers for more detailed information. Time, to provide resources, and information APHIS topics—including, for example, calls about APHIS programs and services. l from families traveling with pets, a trader importing mangoes, a person complain- ing about nuisance geese, and a company importing a virus. 101 critical days of summer The net result is that the call center is mak- APHIS’ Raleigh Office hosted an ing it easier for the general public, regulated emergency preparedness fair on May community, and stakeholders to find the 20, drawing more than 160 partici- information they need about APHIS programs, pants. The event focused on safety services, and activities. and preparedness during the “101 Critical Days of Summer”—the time [first point of contact] between Memorial Day and Labor Because of APHIS’ diverse mission, custom- Day when hot weather and outdoor ers can find it challenging to know where to activities are at their peak. look or who to call, and they can get shuffled from person to person or agency to agency The fair featured 28 exhibits, includ- trying to find the information they need. ing displays by area mounted police, Launched June 3, 2015, the APHIS Customer the National Detector Dog Training Program, and medical professionals offering free blood Service Call Center’s goal is to eliminate these pressure and glucose monitoring and information about diabetic emergencies, strokes, situations by serving as a responsive first and heart attacks. point of contact for APHIS and by helping

customers navigate the agency’s offices. Other booths provided fire extinguisher training and safety information about heat and

fireworks. The “Seat Belt Convincer” was also on hand to demonstrate the importance of The APHIS Call Center collaborates closely buckling up. with agency programs that have existing call centers or 800 numbers to respond to stake- Shown here (left to right): Kerry Garcia (VS), Barbara Porter-Spalding (VS), and David holder calls. Working together, they ensure Mallard (WS) staff a table displaying personal protective gear. l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 plant protection and quarantine weaving tribal relations with nonregulatory By William Wepsala solutions It is increasingly important to APHIS’ success a significant pest. It has affected 25 States, nomic importance of the baskets, the black that we be flexible and open to finding alterna- inflicting damage on all 16 native U.S. species ash figures heavily into the Tribe’s creation tives to regulations in our efforts to protect of ash as well as a number of other trees. Be- story and is a significant cultural resource. U.S. agriculture and natural resources. cause EAB hadn’t been detected in the area of New York that the Tribe calls home, there [seeing an opportunity] Sometimes by simply pausing and taking a were restrictions on its ability to import ash As Tribe members worked to import black second look, we can identify alternatives that logs from the Algonquin community. ash logs, they found APHIS requirements for better serve our customers and stakeholders import permits and the permitting process and that still meet our safeguarding goals. For the Tribe, the potential damage ran Continued on next page deeper than just lost income. Beyond the eco- Working with the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe of New York, APHIS was able to use a more flexible approach—a nonregulatory solution— to ease obstacles created by the emerald Basket made by Mary Adams. ash borer (EAB). Photo by Drew Harty and provided courtesy of the Akwesasne Museum. [economic and cultural impact] For generations, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe has traded with the Algonquin community of Maniwaki, Quebec. Most importantly, they trade to get black ash logs used in traditional basket weaving.

Unfortunately, the presence of EAB in other parts of Canada was limiting the Tribe’s ability to import much needed black ash logs. Since arriving in North America, EAB has become click visit and send your photo today!

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

weaving tribal relations

Continued from page 6 difficult to navigate. They contacted APHIS to APHIS also coordinated with U.S. Customs PPQ employees were invited to speak at the request a permit waiver, but were denied. and Border Protection, training them on the New York Indian Nations Conference, where terms of the new permit, ensuring that its they presented information about EAB, Asian In many cases, this might have been how the implementation would proceed as smoothly longhorned beetle, invasive pest detection story ended. as possible. Discussions between the agen- activities, as well as the AgDiscovery and cies helped anticipate and avoid potential Washington Internships for Native Students But instead, New York State Plant Health problems at the border. Support from the (WINS) youth programs. l Director Diana Hoffman took a second look Associate Administrator’s Office as part of the and saw an opportunity to be flexible with Alternatives to Rulemaking Program made how the permits were handled under the this possible. existing regulations. With the new permit and process in place, At its root, using nonregulatory solutions— the Tribe resumed importing black ash, and interested in or alternatives to rulemaking—means APHIS turned an important stakeholder into a finding ways to meet our mission goals that valued partner. writing? do not involve creating new APHIS regulations. And, in situations like this one, it also [strength through flexibility] Whether you’re looking to practice means remaining open to taking a flexible By taking a flexible approach, APHIS forged your skills, add an interesting new approach to interpreting and implementing a stronger relationship with the St. Regis goal to your individual development our existing regulations. Mohawk Tribe—one based on understanding plan (IDP), or you simply enjoy writing, and a respect for one another’s goals. consider contacting Inside APHIS to In this case, Hoffman and APHIS were able learn about writing opportunities. to streamline the permitting process and sim- The success has opened the door to others,

plify the established permit. Working closely demonstrating the degree to which nonregu- Contact newsletter editor John Scott

together, the Tribe and local Plant Protection latory solutions can be effective and lead by phone (301-851-4068) or email and Quarantine (PPQ) staff developed a work- to greater opportunities. APHIS has since ([email protected]) for able permit with requirements that provide worked with the Tribe to provide funding for more details. l effective safeguarding but are easier to follow. pest surveys to ensure forest health. And

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [ 8 ] 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

wildlife services trapping expertise goes global Here at home in the United States, Wildlife devastating to wild and domestic pig popula- and monitoring efforts, Marlow traveled to By Gail Keirn Services wildlife biologist Michael Marlow is tions, it is not a human health threat. Experts Uganda and demonstrated how to use two known for his varied expertise—from wildlife hope to learn more about the role of the tools—an electromagnetic drop-net system disease surveillance, to nonlethal predation bushpig in the epidemiology of African swine and a drop-door corral trap. damage management, to feral swine control. fever—especially at contact points between But in Uganda, he’s known simply as “the guy wildlife and livestock. This information will help The drop-net system uses a large, square net with all of the cool stuff.” African countries deal with the disease and hung from four corner poles. Each corner of prevent its spread to other countries, such as the net is secured to a weight that is held in [sharing the cool stuff] the United States. place by an electromagnet. A wireless remote- This past April, Marlow took his expertise control can turn off the power to the electro- on the road when he was invited to visit the Successful trapping and radio-collaring magnet and allow the net to drop. Animals are Nwoya and Gulu districts of Northern Uganda. projects are an important—and admittedly lured under the net with bait. There, he trained researchers from Sweden, tricky—part of learning more about the Uganda, and Kenya on the trapping tech- disease’s spread. The drop-door corral trap includes a holding niques and equipment used to capture feral container made of welded fencing material swine in the United States. “Our colleagues at the National Veterinary and a suspended, trigger-activated door. Once Institute in Sweden and Makerere University inside the corral, the animals’ movements trip “Wildlife Services has successfully used drop- in Uganda, as well as several other partners, a trigger line that causes the door to close, nets and corral traps to control invasive feral were having difficulty capturing and radio- trapping them inside. Both techniques can swine in the United States,” said Marlow. collaring warthogs and bushpigs in Africa,” catch multiple animals at a time. “Our hope is that these same techniques can said Marlow. be used in Africa to capture warthogs and While there, Marlow and the team captured bushpigs for an African swine fever study.” “The traps and nets they were using just two warthogs with the drop-net system. weren’t working on these very shy, elusive, APHIS wildlife biologist Michael Marlow (upper African swine fever is a highly contagious hem- and strictly nocturnal animals.” “We likely would have caught more animals, left) traveled to Northern Uganda to train local orrhagic disease of pigs, warthogs, wild boar, but the weather was not ideal. Our trapping researchers on nonlethal trapping techniques. and feral swine. It is prevalent in sub-Saharan [drop-nets and corral traps] Samples were collected from captured wart- Africa, and outbreaks have occurred in some To help increase trapping success and im- Continued on next page hogs as part of an African swine fever study. parts of Europe. Although the disease can be prove the group’s African swine fever sampling page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 [ 9 ] 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 volunteer spotlight ralph davis trapping [volunteer organization] expertise Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Post 8950 Continued from page 8 Lanham, MD occurred during the transition period be- [organization mission] tween Uganda’s dry and wet seasons. The The VFW mission is to foster camaraderie sudden increase in food and water made among U.S. veterans of overseas conflicts, it difficult to predict where the warthogs and to serve our veterans, the military, and our and bushpigs would be,” said Marlow. communities. The VFW advocates on behalf of all veterans. Ralph Davis Still, enthusiasm remains high that these

IT Security Manager new tools will boost capture success Information Technology Division [volunteer activities] and allow researchers to gain valuable Davis volunteers his time as the Board of Marketing and Regulatory Programs Governors Chairperson for his post. Among Business Services other things, he works hands-on at Post 8950 Researchers in Uganda set up one Riverdale, MD to help with events and sales activities and of the drop-nets brought over by to maintain the facility, kitchen, building, and APHIS-WS’ Michael Marlow for use in other areas. He also participates in numerous capturing warthogs and bushpigs. annual scholarship, fundraising, and public awareness events. information about African swine fever in wart- hog and bushpig populations. [time given] Serving as Board Chairperson for the past 2 “It’s rewarding to know other wildlife profes- years, Davis has donated more than 1,000 sionals are benefiting from Wildlife Services’ hours. Final touches are placed on the drop- experience,” said Marlow. l

[organization web site] door corral trap. Animals are lured into

www.vfw.org the corral with bait. Once inside the corral, their movements trip a trigger [employee email] line that causes the door to close, [email protected] l trapping them inside. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 ] 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 animal care veterinarians aim for specialty board certification

Many Animal Care veterinary medical officers welfare of animals regulated under the Animal that. They launched an initiative that would By Dave Sacks (VMOs) are seeking to enhance their profes- Welfare Act. And, of course, the animals will become ACAW. sional credentials by becoming board certified benefit as well,” said Betty Goldentyer, Animal under the newest American Veterinary Medical Care’s director of operations in Raleigh, NC. [how it came about] Association’s (AVMA) specialty program—the “Animal welfare has always been the founda- American College of Animal Welfare (ACAW). [recognizing expertise] tion of veterinary training and education, but (Foreground, left to right): Animal Care The AVMA—which represents more than viewing it as a specific scientific discipline had VMOs Paula Gladue and Tonya Hadjis, ACAW’s mission as a new board-certified 86,500 veterinarians working in private prac- not been done previously,” said Dr. William National Animal Care Specialist Nicolette specialty is to advance animal welfare tice, government, industry, academia, and the Stokes, Animal Care’s assistant director of Petervary, and Supervisory Animal Care through education, certification, and scientific uniformed services—recognizes 22 specialty operations in Raleigh, NC. Specialist Dana Miller conduct an animal investigation. As the world’s largest employer organizations, or boards, and encourages welfare assessment of dairy cattle on the of animal welfare veterinarians, Animal Care its members to develop enhanced skills in Establishing animal welfare as a distinct profes- North Carolina State University College knows that its VMOs are prime candidates to specific areas of veterinary medicine. More sional discipline did not happen overnight. of Veterinary Medicine Teaching Farm as fulfill that mission. than 11,000 veterinarians have completed the “It took a while to prepare a certification pro- part of the 2015 ACAW “Animal Welfare rigorous postgraduate training, education, and gram and gain accreditation from AVMA—five Short Course.” It has the makings of a win-win-win situation examination required to become board-certi- for Animal Care. years to be exact,” said Stokes, who was fied in specialty areas such as surgery, internal invited to serve on the ACAW organizing com- “Our VMOs will medicine, behavior, and pathology. mittee in 2007 based on his welfare expertise benefit from being Individuals who complete the process be- in the care and use of animals in research and formally recog- come “diplomates,” and they serve animals, testing. “During that time, our committee laid nized as profes- the public, and the veterinary profession by out the knowledge requirements we felt were sional experts in providing high quality service in their particular needed in order for a diplomate to truly have a animal welfare. area of expertise. professional level of expertise in the discipline Animal Care’s of animal welfare.” stakeholders will Prior to 2006, animal welfare had never benefit because been a board-certified specialty, but a Continued on next page these VMOs will group of veterinarians led by former AVMA advance the president Bonnie Beaver set out to change page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 in memoriam From March 1 through June 26, our agency lost seven members of the APHIS family. We specialty board will miss them. Our thoughts are with their families. certification plant protection and quarantine Ronald Winningham Krebs, OK Alvaro Lopez Harlingen, TX Violet Ko Kahului, Hi Continued from page 10 ACAW certified its first class of diplomates how to conduct animal welfare assessments in 2013. for a wide range of species and discussed veterinary services contemporary animal welfare issues and best Zong Xiong Ames, IA In addition to the education, training, and practices. Stokes discussed strategies for examination required to become board- reducing and avoiding pain and distress in wildlife services certified, candidates must also publish two biomedical research and testing. Kenneth Baer Elko, NV papers in peer-reviewed journals. Shannon Tunnell* Roswell, NM Nicolette Petervary, national animal care Kelly Hobbs* Roswell, NM “The journal papers are significant because specialist in Raleigh, discussed how Animal the candidates, through research or critical Welfare Act regulations are applied to address *WS Pilot Kelly Hobbs and program reviews, are evaluating new ways to approach the key aspects of animal welfare. Thirty-three cooperator Shannon Tunnell died on June specific animal welfare challenges—and this Animal Care VMOs—plus one from Veterinary 5 when their aircraft crashed during coy- leads to science-based improvements in animal Services and one from USDA’s Food Safety ote control work southeast of Raton, NM. welfare,” said Stokes. and Inspection Service—attended the course. Hobbs became a WS employee in 1990 and had more than 35 years with the [great fit for animal care] Animal Care’s Deputy Administrator Chester cooperative WS program, serving as a Animal Care employs 72 VMOs in the field Gipson is determined to enable as many of pilot in New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado. and another 13 in the Center for Animal his program’s VMOs as possible to become Tunnell began his career in 2009 as a Welfare and Riverdale. A large number of ACAW-certified. them have shown a strong interest in New Mexico Department of Agriculture becoming ACAW diplomates. The program has established a working wildlife specialist in Chaves County. He group to develop recommendations for had extensive training as a crewmember “Many of our veterinarians are interested training and education opportunities that in aerial shooting operations for predator because becoming a diplomate demonstrates would allow interested VMOs to meet the damage management. Read more. that you have special knowledge and skills in requirements for certification.

animal welfare—and they want to gain that Special Note: Since our last issue, we

learned of the passing of APHIS retiree knowledge and enhance their welfare assess- “We are supporting those who want to be- John Cougill on February 26, 2015. John ment skills,” said Stokes. come ACAW-certified because they will joined APHIS in 1991 and retired from be bettering themselves professionally. And In June, ACAW offered its second annual “Ani- Veterinary Services in December 2014.l mal Welfare Short Course.” Speakers explained our whole program will benefit from that,” said Goldentyer.l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13 14 15 16 17 18 plant protection and quarantine pilot program helps users bring the Imagine returning from an exciting adventure in Heather Curlett, PPQ’s outreach and risk com- People traveling from Mexico and China, as Mexico or China or a relaxing vacation in Hawaii. munications coordinator, says that for travel- well as those entering the U.S. mainland from ‘right stuff’ You would like to bring back mementos from ers, knowing when it’s ok to bring something Hawaii, can use the site to make informed your trip: an orchid, sand from the beach, even and when you should leave it behind can be choices about what they might wish to bring By Amanda Sutker a mango from a tree outside your hotel. challenging. That’s why Curlett and others in with them. The interactive, graphic-based Web PPQ developed CanIBringIt.com. site is accessible in English, Mandarin, and A new Web site, CanIBringIt.com, sponsored Spanish. Individuals with limited language skills by Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ), can “The Web site is currently being piloted,” says should find its photo-heavy design easy to help you make smart choices when you pack Curlett says. “By focusing on certain countries use, says Curlett. your suitcase. and points of entry, we are learning how to help travelers navigate our regulations. When The Web site’s accessibility and ability to com- PPQ works cooperatively with U.S. Customs travelers know what they can and can’t bring, municate effectively with broad, diverse audi- and Border Protection (CBP) and State depart- it helps to alleviate pressure on our safeguard- ences have already yielded impressive results. ments of agriculture to protect our agricultural ing system by reducing the risk that someone Since the pilot began in mid-April, CanIBringIt. and natural resources from invasive pests. might unknowingly bring a dangerous plant com has received nearly than 51,000 unique Many travelers do not realize that some fruits, pest or animal disease.” visitors and more than 100,000 page views. l vegetables, and meat products from certain areas can carry potentially harmful pests and diseases that could cost millions of dollars in agricultural and environmental damage and can i bring it? quiz eradication efforts. Can you identify which items are allowed 6. Curry leaf from Hawaii? While USDA regulations permit certain items into the United States? 7. Prickly pear fruit from Mexico? to cross U.S. borders or move interstate 8. Pork skins from Mexico? 1. Kudzu from China? (i.e., in the case of items entering the mainland 9. Citrus peel from China? 2. Orchids from Mexico? from Hawaii), some items are prohibited 10. Wreaths made from spruce from 3. Mango from Hawaii? entry. And all items entering the country are Mexico? 4. Empanada from Mexico? subject to inspection by CBP or—for items 5. Seed leis from Hawaii? from Hawaii—to predeparture inspections by Check your answers on page 13. APHIS officials. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] 14 15 16 17 18 question can i bring it? of the –quiz answers day 1. Kudzu from China—Allowed (leaves and stems allowed after clearing U.S. Customs and Border Protection) In our last issue, we asked employees, “What [next question please] 2. Orchids from Mexico—Allowed (fresh do you do most often for your lunch break?” Different people learn new skills and information in different ways. Some prefer books, cuttings for decoration allowed after clearing U.S. CBP) What do you do Here’s the percentage breakdown of the classrooms, or Webinars, while others choose most often for your answers we received. on-the-job training experiences whenever 3. Mango from Hawaii—Prohibited possible. lunch break? 4. Empanada from Mexico—Allowed 5% With that in mind, we ask: For you, what is the (thoroughly cooked, prepared food Don’t Take best way to gain the knowledge and skills you containing meat for personal use in a Break need to enhance your career with APHIS? 14% small quantities allowed after clearing 2% U.S. CBP) Exercise • Webinars Eat on 5. Seed leis from Hawaii—Allowed (after 59% • Shadow Assignments the Run clearing U.S. CBP) Eat at • Details 20% My Desk • Classroom Courses 6. Curry leaf from Hawaii—Allowed Eat Lunch • All of the Above (if commercially treated at USDA- Away from approved facility and packed in boxes My Desk As always, thanks for responding and that are clearly marked/stamped after remember your participation is voluntary clearing U.S. CBP) and confidential. Our thanks to everyone who responded to 7. Prickly pear fruit from Mexico— our last question. Share this link with your coworkers and en- Allowed (after clearing U.S. CBP) courage them to participate! Click here to take 8. Pork skins from Mexico—Selectively part in the poll: Question of the Day l allowed depending on State of origin, crispness, and temperature fried (after passing U.S. CBP) The APHIS Center for Training and Organizational Development (CTOD) offers many 9. Citrus peel from China—Prohibited explore your courses and options to help you with your professional development goals. training 10. Wreaths made from spruce from Visit the CTOD SharePoint page to learn about all the resources available, including a Mexico—Prohibited options today! Training Calendar that features course descriptions and registration information. l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 [ 14 ] 15 16 17 18 weighing options with regulatory enforcement What happens when someone violates consider, and aggravating or mitigating factors resources, it’s just not possible, and such an APHIS regulations? to weigh that may shape the penalties pursued approach wouldn’t necessarily yield better by the agency. compliance results. Instead, IES aims to strike While the question sounds straightforward, a balance between two things: applying effec- the answer can get complicated. Thankfully, IES looks at the seriousness of the violation, tive measures that support the agency’s mis- APHIS Investigative and Enforcement Services the culpability or level of responsibility of the sion and maximizing USDA’s overall enforce- (IES) is there to answer the question. parties involved, and any previous violations. ment resources. They also consider how cooperative the Depending on the particular situation, the parties have been. This means understanding, for example, details of the violation, and consideration over that an official warning will work well in some which enforcement action may best deter When you add to this mix the collaboration cases, and in others, a civil monetary penalty possible future violations, each case can take it takes to investigate potential violations and is needed. a variety of different paths. actually complete an enforcement action, you get a pretty thick stew. IES works closely with [deterrent effect] The role of IES staff is to investigate and APHIS programs, U.S. Customs and Border Determining which enforcement action to take understand the specifics and then, as needed, Protection (CBP), USDA’s Office of the General is difficult, and it can be controversial. Ques- advise the agency programs and guide the Counsel (OGC), and the U.S. Department of tions can arise about appropriate penalties, enforcement action that follows. Justice (DOJ). the complexities of following Federal regula- IES efforts promote and protect the health and tions, the financial impact on small businesses, [striking a balance] issues of quality and timely case resolution, value of American animal, plant, and natural After an investigation that substantiates viola- resources by supporting APHIS programs and how effective enforcement actions are as tions, IES has several options. With agreement deterrents to future violations. and the agency’s regulations, including those from the agency program involved, IES can related to essential laws like the Plant Protec- issue an official warning, pursue a voluntary That last part—an enforcement action’s ef- tion Act (PPA), the Animal Health Protection settlement agreement, refer a case to OGC for fectiveness—is especially hard to quantify and Act, the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), the Horse an administrative proceeding, or—in cases in- predict. For some, the value of a deterrent is Protection Act, and others. volving more serious violations—refer the case measured in dollars. For others, the deterrent [no easy task] to the DOJ for civil or criminal action. is more about being publicly associated with The work of IES is no easy task. In every case, violating Federal regulations. there are many factors to sort out. There are For practical reasons, not all cases result in pursuing the toughest possible enforce- In a recent case, a plant nursery—in violation often competing information, facts to docu- of APHIS regulations—shipped plants known ment, specific provisions in the statutes to ment action or penalty. Considering available Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 [ 15 ] 16 17 18 did you know Did you know that our Investiga- warnings, the collection of more than $1.8 Disqualification List on the Web site. But it’s tive and Enforcement Services’ (IES) Web million in stipulated penalties, and the assess- not just about data. The site now also pro- pages now feature data and summaries ment of almost $1 million in civil penalties from vides links to information for small businesses, outlining APHIS enforcement actions for each administrative orders. frequently asked questions, and IES contacts. ? program, agricultural quarantine inspection The program is planning other exciting addi- activities, and the agency as a whole? [improving communication] tions as well, such as a searchable enforce- With a focus on community relations, IES has ment action tool. IES recently posted the information to taken other steps to improve the availability of help increase public awareness and its information online. Visit the IES Web site to see what’s new and support of enforcement activities for APHIS- check back for up-to-date information about For example, IES listened to public requests administered laws. APHIS enforcement efforts. l and began posting the Horse Protection Act The Web site helps make APHIS enforcement efforts more transparent. It houses data and summaries covering fiscal years’ (FY) 2014 and 2015 (mid-year), weighing options Continued from page 14 plus information about IES and how it supports the APHIS mission. as a host for sudden oak death. The nursery insufficient qualified care. Following an IES sent the plants without the necessary investigation, the zoo agreed to a monetary IES will update the posted data at notifications and continued even after a hold settlement agreement of $8,107. Unlike the the end of FY 2015 and twice each was placed on materials that tested positive nursery, the zoo has not been the subject of year thereafter. for the pathogen. In response, IES pursued any further investigation. [increasing efficiency] a case, and an Administrative Law Judge issued a consent decision assessing a civil [not just numbers] The site also shares some exciting successes penalty of $10,750. Despite the penalty, the In fiscal year 2014, IES initiated over 2,500 from IES’ Business Process Improvement nursery is now again under investigation enforcement actions, but the numbers alone (BPI) project. The goal of the BPI was to help for continuing to violate the PPA. Together, are not its goal. IES take swifter action on alleged violations. IES, OGC, and the Plant Protection and Through this project and other initiatives, IES IES serves to support the APHIS mission. Quarantine program are pursuing stronger has increased its efficiency, cutting its pro- And, like the agency, IES is becoming enforcement actions to compel the nursery’s cessing time in half. increasingly aware that fulfilling this mission compliance. can be done not just through enforcement The project has also driven dramatic In contrast, consider the case of a public actions, but through proactive collaboration reductions since 2011 in the number of open zoo that had several serious AWA-related and communication with the public and with cases pending action. And, last year alone, issues. These involved animal enclosure greater transparency and information sharing IES efforts resulted in nearly 1,800 official hazards, poor sanitation, and providing on its Web site. l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 [ 16 ] 17 18 recent aphis

retirees Between March 1 and June 26, 2015, a total Darlene Di Leone Riverdale, MD John Johnson Little Rock, AR of 48 employees joined the ranks of APHIS Peggy Elder Otis AFB, MA Barry Latney Orient Point, NY retirees. Joel Floyd Riverdale, MD Reed Macarty East Lansing, MI Steven Golebiowski Worcester, MA Beverly Moxley Austin, TX We send our congratulations to each and Stephen Knight Des Plaines, IL Annette Olson Ames, IA wish them all the very best. Nora Lynch Riverdale, MD Douglas Pedersen Ames, IA Mark Michaelis Berlin, VT Evonne Phillips Ames, IA office of the administrator Connie Pepper Sacramento, CA Harry Vogt Del Rio, TX Cynthia Smith Edenton, NC Richard Richerson Glynco, GA Tim Wetherbee Blackfoot, ID Joseph Rocco, Jr. Ft. Pierce, FL

international services Gilbert Rowe, Jr. Mullins, SC wildlife services Eloisa Jones Riverdale, MD Ralph Salber Mullica Hill, NJ Peter Butchko Okemos, MI William Spitzer Baton Rouge, LA Rodney Krischke Casper, WY marketing and regulatory Judy Loven West Lafayette, IN programs business services Earl M. Toyama Honolulu, HI Shirley Wager-Page Riverdale, MD Brenda Scott Springfield, IL Deborah O’Brien Minneapolis, MN Terrance Washington Miami, FL Ricky Walker Collins, MS l Sherri Sirotkin Riverdale, MD plant protection and quarantine veterinary services Debra Beaugh Fort Collins, CO Deverett Alexander Palmetto, FL Judith Berganini Fort Collins, CO Debora Bivins Goldsboro, NC Judy Crawford Gainesville, FL Joseph Cavey, Jr. Riverdale, MD Arthur Davis Ames, IA Linda Chan Daly City, CA Jack Ellithorpe Lakewood, CO James Clow Raleigh, NC Nils Forseth Miami, FL Dean Daugherty Owensboro, KY David Gramlich New Braunfels, TX Joseph Dayball Ft. Pierce, FL

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 [ 17 ] 18

manager profile with michelle wenberg

[what is your background?] on sheep in the Colorado mountains. Another just finished reading Patrick Lencioni’s I was born and raised in the Washington, big highlight of my career was helping draft Five Dysfunctions of a Team. I am currently Michelle Weddle Wenberg D.C., area. I began working for APHIS in 1990 the fiscal year (FY) 2003 appropriations bill reading Leading Across Boundaries by APHIS Budget Officer when I was a student at the University of during my congressional detail. Russell Linden. Policy and Program Development Maryland in College Park. [priorities in the coming months?] [favorite meal?] My staff and I will continue to defend Being a Maryland girl, I love to spend After graduating with a degree in business, I and justify APHIS’ FY 2017 bud- time on the water picking crabs dur- began working for APHIS full-time and have get request as it makes its way ing the summer. Of course, this must since held positions in Plant Protection and through USDA and the Office of be accompanied by a healthy helping Quarantine, Marketing and Regulatory Pro- Management and Budget. I have of crab dip and a cold beverage. grams Business Services, Wildlife Services, been spending a lot of time prepar- and Policy and Program Development (PPD). ing and justifying emergency funding requests [hobbies?] for the current avian influenza emergency, I enjoy planning community outreach activities I also spent a year on detail with the U.S. too, and expect that to continue into the fall. for my daughter’s Girl Scout troop, for which I Senate Appropriations Subcommittee for Another priority for me is leading the effort to am also the money manager. Agriculture in the early 2000s. I have been the develop PPD’s first strategic plan. APHIS Budget Officer since 2005. I also got a FitBit watch recently to track my [most memorable [accomplishment most proud of?] steps, activity, etc. and am having fun chal- aphis experience?] Professionally speaking, I am most proud lenging myself—and my FitBit friends—to of receiving the APHIS Supervisor of I have had a number or memorable experi- walk more each day. the Year Award in 2012 because ences while working for APHIS. As a head- members of my staff [guilty pleasure?] quarters employee, I have particularly enjoyed nominated me for it. Binge-watching recorded episodes of The opportunities to spend time in the field to see Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. And all APHIS’ mission in action. [last book read?] things chocolate. I’m currently enrolled in the Office Some examples are when I volunteered for of Personnel Management’s Federal Execu- [favorite movie?] the Karnal Bunt emergency program in Ari- tive Institute training, so I’ve been reading a National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. l zona and tracked coyotes that were preying lot of leadership development books lately. I page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 [ 18 ] plant protection and quarantine understanding international standards “How do you make diplomats out of scien- training course is called Introduction to stations around the country, have completed tists?” Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) International Phytosanitary Standards. the course as part of their basic agricultural Assistant Deputy Administrator John Greifer safeguarding training. asked recently. “You do everything you can to It introduces users to standards set by prepare and equip them to deal with a rapidly International Standard Setting Organizations “The Introduction to International Phytos- changing world.” (ISSOs)—such as the International Plant Pro- anitary Standards training is only the begin- tection Committee (IPPC) and North American ning,” said Katz. “Changes in global agriculture • More than 180 “Historically PPQ has been known primarily Plant Protection Organization (NAPPO)—and will require a workforce that understands the for its domestic work, but now we’re about the way they affect PPQ’s daily operations. global policy framework that affects commerce countries, in much more than keeping bugs away from our The four-lesson training takes about an hour to and regulators. We welcome employees with addition to the borders,” said Greifer. complete. an interest in this critical area to let us know if they would like to serve as a technical expert United States, When PPQ reorganized in 2013, one of its “The course information is interesting and on an IPPC or NAPPO working group.” priorities was to increase the program’s focus it provides a good foundation for employees are members of on international standards and trade by who participate in IPPC or NAPPO meetings For more information about the online train- the IPPC. placing those responsibilities directly under or with international working groups,” ing, contact Katz or Stephanie Dubon. Katz the PPQ Deputy Administrator. said Lora Katz, PPQ communications is available at [email protected] program specialist. or (301) 851-2256; Dubon is available at • The NAPPO In an increasingly complex, global society, [email protected] PPQ believes it is critical that more employees More than 100 APHIS employees or (301) 851-2180. l member countries understand international guidelines for plant designated as subject matter experts have health in order to work more effectively with attended IPPC or NAPPO meetings abroad or are the United foreign counterparts. served on ISSO working groups here in the United States. States, Canada, [new training] and Mexico. To help achieve this goal, PPQ recently Since the May 1st launch of the online train- introduced a new training program, available ing, 16 plant health safeguarding special- through AgLearn to all USDA employees. The ists, entry-level professionals serving in duty

page United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Vol. 3, 2015 APHIS plant protection and quarantine

click supporting exercise in this issue talisman sabre Plant Protection and Presentation By Jose Lozada and Andrea Simao Quarantine: Supporting Training: Exercise Talisman Sabre 1 Overcoming the Every two years, the United Blah, Blah, Blahs 7 States and Australia conduct a Combined Federal joint military exercise called Campaign: We Biotechnology Regulatory Talisman Sabre. The exercise Make It Possible 3 Services: How APHIS is provides an opportunity for Improving Biotechnology 8 the two countries to test and In Memoriam 3 practice their capacity for Recent APHIS Retirees 9 contingency response and the International Services: interoperability of their tactics, Improving Vesicular In Tribute: Kelly Hobbs techniques, and procedures. Disease Surveillance in and Shannon Tunnell 10 Central America 4 And for Plant Protection and Question of the Day 11 Quarantine’s (PPQ) Preclearance A Good Rainy Day’s Work 4 and Offshore Programs (POP), Shown (left to right) are: Nicole Harvey Gleaning for Feds the exercise—which occurred (Aus.), Michelle Brotohusodo (Aus.), Andrew Pear Program Party 5 Feed Familiies 11 again this past summer—gives agency Agius (Aus.), Leonie Kearney (Aus.), Bill Aley personnel the chance to support the train- (PPQ), Emma Davidson (Aus.), JoAnn Cruse Wildlife Services: Manager ing, collaborate with a key agricultural trading (PPQ), Lee Newport (PPQ), Jon Bicket (Aus.) Returning Black- Profile: partner, and demonstrate PPQ’s skills at and (kneeling front) Jose Lozada (PPQ). Footed Ferrets Burke Healey 12 safeguarding agricultural and to Prairie Lands 6 natural resources. exercise, which requires the movement of Did You Know 13 Since 2007, POP’s military preclearance U.S. military equipment to Australia. inspectors have joined forces with the U.S. Australia has strict biosecurity requirements Department of Defense (DOD) to facilitate the that protect its agriculture and natural Continued on next page page APHIS page 1 [ 2 ] 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

talisman sabre

Continued from page 1

resources. Without the support of POP helicopter took an average of 3 days to clean, inspectors, these requirements would make inspect, and certify. John Scott, Editor APHIS (301) 851-4068 it very difficult to conduct a realistic training [email protected] exercise since military equipment can pose a [step aboard] Photo sources: Bill Aley (PPQ), Kristy Bly (World high biosecurity risk. In July, members of POP’s military preclear- Wildlife Fund), Anson Eaglin (LPA), Bob Nichols ance team left land and served aboard U.S. (USDA), Plant Protection and Quarantine, John Additionally, POP’s involvement eases other Navy vessels. During the 3-week exercise, Steuber (USDA), Veterinary Services. obstacles concerning inspection. Because team members provided advice, inspection, Inside APHIS is a quarterly newsletter serving U.S. military vessels and aircraft have sov- and certifications at sea, which allowed DOD all APHIS employees by delivering agency news, providing useful workplace information, and ereign immunity, foreign authorities may not to practice on the Australian shores. connecting employees from across the agency board and conduct inspections required for to our shared mission, common challenges, and entering Australian ports and national waters. PPQ’s involvement demonstrated the pro- significant accomplishments. Here again, POP personnel step in and help. gram’s unique ability to deliver agricultural risk For information about contributing articles and photos, click here to visit us on My.APHIS. mitigation any time, any place—even under [exercise preparations] the challenging environments at sea. As part of the preparation for the exercises, A Landing Craft Utility boat approaches POP officials conducted pre-inspection of Congratulations to PPQ’s Jose Lozada, Lee the well deck of an amphibious assault U.S. military equipment and eliminated all Newport, William Aley, JoAnn Cruse, and interested in ship. Cobra attack helicopters can be agricultural risks discovered during the Colleen Kitzmiller for their outstanding work on seen on the flight deck above. inspection process. These efforts included Talisman Sabre. l writing? inspecting and certifying 41 combat aircraft, Whether you’re looking to practice your 5 amphibious vessels, and all of the U.S. skills, add an interesting new goal to your vehicles and equipment used by the more individual development plan (IDP), or you than 30,000 military participants. simply enjoy writing, consider contacting Inside APHIS to learn about writing op-

The process required great patience and portunities. immense attention to detail. Each Cobra Contact editor John Scott by phone (301- 851-4068) or email (john.e.scott@aphis. usda.gov) for more details. l page APHIS page 1 2 [ 3 ] 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 combined federal campaign we make aphis it possible in memoriam By Amanda Sutker There’s still time to make your contribution to To benefit other regional CFC campaign From June 26 through November 28, we the 2015 Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). areas, APHIS employees in Minneapolis, Ra- lost five members of the APHIS family. We The campaign has been extended and now leigh, Ames, Fort Collins, and other locations will miss them, and our thoughts go out to runs until December 31st. are supporting CFC by working with State their families and loved ones. campaign coordinators to sign up donors plant protection and quarantine With a list of thousands of eligible charities to and host events. Robert Dahl Gladstone, MO choose from, it’s easy to select an orga- Lance Oshiro Honolulu, HI nization or charity of interest to you. CFC Fort Collins employees even found a way to Genoveva Pereira Miami, FL keyworkers in Riverdale and Washington, D.C. connect their local USDA People’s Garden to Juan Vasquez Edinburg, TX are available to assist you with completing this year’s CFC fundraising efforts. Veterinary paper donation forms or online giving. Services’ Kasey Reyling organized a “guess wildlife services the pumpkin’s weight” contest in October. The Mark Crabb Petersburg, TX Since the CFC kickoff in September, APHIS pumpkin, which Kasey and others grew in the employees throughout the country have garden, weighed 53.1 pounds. Special Note: We learned recently of participated in local CFC campaigns, pledging the passing of APHIS retiree Dr. Pierre payroll deductions and attending events to Through individual pledges and events like the Arthur Chaloux, former Deputy raise awareness about CFC. “guess the weight” contest, APHIS employees Administrator of Veterinary Services. in Fort Collins have raised nearly $18,000 in Chaloux joined USDA in 1953 and Agency employees in the National Capital support of CFC. l had a lengthy and very accomplished Area have so far raised nearly $58,000. Con- career. tributions have come from individual donors and an active fundraising schedule, including Among other achievements, he played jeans and jersey days, a coffeehouse with live a key role in the development of the

music, an international chocolate fair, and vari- bovine tuberculosis, screwworm fly, and

ous lunchtime food events. hog cholera eradication programs. For more, read Administrator Kevin Shea’s message (December 2, 2015).l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 [ 4 ] 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 international services improving vesicular disease surveillance in central america In August, APHIS signed a cooperative management and program analysis, as well as for FMD, screwworm, and other transbound- agreement to begin an enhanced and the Vesicular Disease Laboratory in Panama. ary animal diseases. In recent years, however, sustainable level of vesicular disease and with less financial support for these programs, By Conrad Estrada screwworm surveillance in various Central [risk-based strategy] the number of field samples and the efficiency American countries. The agreement— Since the 1970s, APHIS has supported of the system has decreased. a collaborative effort with the International vesicular disease surveillance in Central Regional Organization for Plant and Animal America, working on early detection systems Continued on next page Health (OIRSA)—improves animal disease surveillance in the region and helps safeguard the United States against the risk of foot-and- mouth disease (FMD).

[partners in protection] a good rainy Veterinary Services employees OIRSA is an intergovernmental organiza- spent hours in the rain on November tion that provides technical assistance to the day’s work 17 at the port of Olympia, WA, to ministries and departments of agriculture and safely load 1,427 Holstein heifers livestock of nine member states: Belize, the for export. The exporter shipped the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Honduras, cows to Vietnam to help enlarge the Nicaragua, Panama, El Salvador, Mexico, country’s herd and meet a national and Costa Rica. The organization plays an goal of providing all children with International Services Deputy important role in disease and pest control one glass of milk per day. Administrator Beverly Simmons throughout Central America, protecting and and OIRSA Executive Director strengthening development of agriculture, Shown here, loading crew members M.Sc. Efrain Medina Guerra forestry, and aquaculture by enhancing pro- were (left to right): Mille Chopic, shake hands after signing the duction capacity and the safety of crops and Jodie Jones, Tom Lehman (back),

cooperative agreement. agricultural products. Aaron Gilbertsen, Kate Bowers, and

Victoria Knutson. l The recent cooperative agreement supports field surveillance for vesicular diseases, data page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 [ 5 ] 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 improving vesicular disease surveillance Continued from page 4 A robust vesicular disease and screwworm sequently develop a surveillance plan to track ensure they are familiar with the goals and surveillance program includes field investiga- and detect disease in these areas. Countries objectives of the program. tions, sample collection and submission, will have the option of participating in other and diagnostic sample processing. The new established surveillance programs as long The project will last one year and supports cooperative agreement outlines a risk-based as samples are collected from the identified long-term capacity-building objectives surveillance strategy. It focuses on higher at-risk sources. Countries will also include that will allow the region of Central risk populations and species, which in turn samples from vesicular disease investigations. America better access to diagnostic and increases the efficiency of detections while analytical systems. Additionally, the project optimizing the use of the designated funds. Countries will decide how frequently veterinar- collaboration and information exchange are ians and animal health technicians should visit both essential ingredients in APHIS’ efforts to Although no country in Central America has sites to collect samples and epidemiological combat serious transboundary and emerging ever reported an occurrence of FMD, information and to talk with producers to animal diseases. l vesicular stomatitis is an endemic disease with clinical signs similar to those of FMD. By supporting vesicular disease surveillance in the region, APHIS is helping to ensure that pear program there are no undetected disease incursions in FMD-free areas. This reduces the risk of party APHIS formalized the cooperative FMD being introduced into the United States. On November 17th, International agreement with the International The project also supports screwworm surveil- Services and Plant Protection and Regional Organization for Plant and lance in coordination with the Commission for Quarantine (PPQ) celebrated the Animal Health (OIRSA) in Washington, the Eradication and Prevention of Screwworm 30th anniversary of the sand pear D.C. on Aug. 26, 2015. in Panama. export program in South Korea. The event was hosted by the indus- [how it will work] try cooperators and the National In accordance with the cooperative agree- Plant Protection Organization for

ment, each participating country in the Central South Korea. Organizers presented Preclearance and Offshore Programs,

American region will identify the sources, such awards to growers and exporters who received a plaque for his 15 years of work as farms with susceptible species, that may have been active in the program for a with the program. Shown here (center), be at risk because of their proximity to ports, number of years. Ron Tsunezumi, a pre- PPQ’s Ken Law poses with exporters airports, and landfills. The countries will sub- clearance mitigation specialist in PPQ’s participating in the program. l page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 [ 6 ] 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 wildlife services returning black-footed ferrets to prairie lands

A black-footed ferret pokes its head out of prairie homeland,” said Kristy Bly, senior WS personnel have used DeltaDust® in By Pam Boehland the ground on the Crow Nation reservation in wildlife conservation biologist with the World Colorado, Montana, and Arizona to pre- Montana. As onlookers take photos, the ferret Wildlife Fund. vent plague where more ferret releases are gazes around at its new home with no way of planned, and near where the ferrets have knowing the many cooperators it has taken to [plagued by fleas] already been released. make this day happen. The black-footed ferret is one of North America’s most endangered mammals due to “We are so thankful for Wildlife Services’ part- [first time in a long time] habitat loss and sylvatic plague—a non-native nership and contributions to ferret recovery. It’s been 92 years since the charismatic disease that is transmitted by infected fleas Protection of prairie dog habitat from plague black-footed ferret has called the Crow lands and lethal to ferrets and prairie dogs. is an essential part of restoring and retaining its home. But now its back, thanks to the ferrets on the landscape, and Wildlife Services collaborative efforts of Federal, State, Tribal, As part of the project, all ferrets released personnel are excelling at it,” said Bly. l and environmental agencies and organiza- into the wild are vaccinated against plague tions. Together, they coordinated the release before they leave the U.S. Fish and Wildlife of 29 ferrets onto the reservation on October Service Ferret Recovery Center in Colorado. 23. The project’s goal is to return black-footed But that’s just part of the equation. Without ferrets to the North American prairie. intervention, plague can spread through a prairie dog colony in just a few days, leaving For its part, Wildlife Services (WS) is helping to the ferrets stranded without food. make sure the ferrets are well-fed and healthy. WS role is to protect the reservation’s prairie This is where WS comes in. dog population—the ferrets’ main prey and food source. WS biologists worked closely This summer WS biologists in Montana with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services; Mon- applied an insecticide called DeltaDust® into prairie dog burrows on the Crow Nation tana Fish, Wildlife and Parks; Crow Nation Wildlife Services’ (WS) Wildlife Disease Biologist where ferrets were reintroduced. The insecti- Fish and Game Department; and the World Jerry Wiscomb and WS’ Specialist Jaelynne cide kills the fleas that transmit plague to the Wildlife Fund. Nielsen release a black-footed ferret. prairie dogs and reduces the occurrence of “This important partnership is a part of the the disease. effort to return the masked bandit to its page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 [ 7 ] 8 9 10 11 12 13 presentation training overcoming the blah, blah, blahs

By Gary Roush What was the worst presentation you ever sat “stick” in an audience’s long-term memory. In the meantime, if you’d like to sharpen your through? A likely guess is that the speaker was Participants learned how to keep an skills right now, CTOD has a robust online standing in front of a screen, facing away from audience’s attention by using PowerPoint Career Development Center website that the audience and reading word-for-word from to create arresting, image-rich slides that offers a wide range of learning activities to fit PowerPoint slides crammed with meaningless complement a spoken message. your learning style, developmental goals, and bullets and charts. Sound familiar? Or, perhaps work situation. These activities are organized you have even done this yourself? Effective Executive Speaking emphasized the around the Office of Personnel Manage- importance of speech preparation and delivery ment’s 28 core career competencies and Frankly, we all know there must be a better techniques, such as voice projection and other learning categories, including a section way to communicate ideas. To help employees hand and body movements that reinforce a on presentation skills. Click on any of the discover their inner-speaker, APHIS is offering speaker’s authenticity with an audience. associated links and you will discover a broad training opportunities to learn, practice, and range of courses, webinars, reading materials, refine vital presentation skills. These skills are [more help on the way] websites, and personal activities to enhance essential both for personal effectiveness and Marketing and Regulatory Programs Business your skills. career advancement. And they benefit APHIS Services’ Center for Training and Organization as well: every presentation an employee Development (CTOD) and Plant Protection And remember to check out your local Toast- makes to an external audience is an opportu- and Quarantine’s Professional Development masters club. Toastmasters is an excellent nity to enhance the public’s faith and confi- Center are partnering to develop a hybrid pre- way to gain confidence in public speaking dence in our agency. sentation course that will be offered to APHIS through fun, structured practice with col- employees nationwide. Although final details leagues. APHIS reimburses the cost of Toast- Recently, the agency hosted two contractor- are still in flux, the course will likely consist of masters’ membership fees. led classes: Death by PowerPoint and video and/or webinar sessions coupled with a Effective Executive Speaking. Both courses classroom component to provide opportuni- Visit the Toastmasters website to search received rave reviews from participants. ties to practice the skills with other enrollees. for a club near you. The Riverdale Club meets Watch your email for course descriptions and every other Wednesday in the library, and Death by PowerPoint focused on speech training dates! guests are always welcome. l content and explored what makes ideas page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [ 8 ] 9 10 11 12 13 biotechnology regulatory services how aphis is improving biotechnology

By Andre Bell You probably know that APHIS’ Biotechnol- [time to update] The meeting was the first in a series of ogy Regulatory Services program (BRS) The three agencies have worked together expected public engagement sessions on regulates certain genetically engineered (GE) since 1986—that’s when the framework the initiative. organisms, some of which become part of was created by the White House’s Office the U.S. agricultural system. Additionally, of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). During the meeting, presenters from the Veterinary Service (VS) regulates veterinary The framework was last updated in 1992. three agencies discussed their regulatory biologics that contain GE organisms and may Recently, in July 2015, OSTP directed the roles and the OSTP memorandum entitled, regulate certain GE animals if they present an three Federal agencies to again update the “Modernizing the Regulatory System for animal health risk. What you may not know Coordinated Framework to clarify roles and Biotechnology Products.” Public participants is that BRS and VS are one part of a larger responsibilities, to develop a long-term strat- then provided oral comments representing a science-based Federal regulatory framework egy to ensure that the system is prepared for wide range of views. that regulates the safe use of GE organisms. the future products of biotechnology, and to commission an expert analysis of the future APHIS’ John Turner (BRS) and Lisa Ferguson Within that framework, APHIS partners with landscape of biotechnology products to sup- (VS) presented during the meeting. the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) port this effort. and the Environmental Protection Agency [more information] (EPA). APHIS is responsible for protecting [first steps] For additional information—including meeting agriculture from pests and diseases. The On October 30, the three agencies held a agenda, webcasts, transcripts, presentations, EPA regulates pesticides in order to protect public meeting with the overall goal of helping and the Notice of Public Meeting—visit FDA’s health and the environment. FDA is respon- stakeholders understand the current system Modernizing the Regulatory System for sible for ensuring the safety and proper and to receive input on how to improve the Biotechnology Products webpage. The labeling of all plant-derived food and feed, transparency, predictability, coordination, and page also features a link to sign up for notifi- including those products developed through ultimately the efficiency of the biotechnology cations of future activities related to genetic engineering. regulatory system. the effort. l

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 [ 9 ] 10 11 12 13 recent aphis retirees Between June 27 and November 28, 2015, Gerald Clardy Phoenix, AZ Larae Dolph Ames, IA APHIS had 62 employees retire. Joseph Gittleman Amityville, NY Nils Forseth Miami, FL Katherine Handy Riverdale, MD Joe Garrett Austin, TX We send our congratulations to each and Cedric Howell Baton Rouge, LA Joyce Grow Hollidaysburg, PA wish them all the very best. Reynold Ito Honolulu, HI Arnoldo Gutierrez Aspermont, TX Joanne Johnson Vero Beach, FL Leroy Jan San Juan, PR Lawrence Kershaw Jacksonville, FL Susan Jistel Austin, TX animal care Carmen Laureano Miami, FL Kristine Kraig Tumwater, WA Joseph Nelson Raleigh, NC Willie McDonald Orlando, FL Mark Mason Tumwater, WA Kimberly Merenz Albany, NY Luanne McGonigle Ames, IA

international services George Muneoka Honolulu, HI Lawrence Miller Riverdale, MD Eric Hoffman Santo Domingo, DR Jose Renteria Edinburg, TX Terrel Milligan Ben Wheeler, TX marketing and regulatory Joe Rodriguez Raleigh, NC Kathleen Nelson Ankeny, IA programs business services David Root Baltimore, MD Annette Olson Ames, IA Gilbert Rowe, Jr. Mullins, SC Joseph Pericozzi, Jr. Ithaca, NY Anita McGrady Washington, D.C Michael Saah Beltsville, MD Gary Ross Riverdale, MD policy and program development Ralph Salber Mullica Hill, NJ Charles Shaw, Jr. Eupora, MS Karla Gainey Riverdale, MD John Tanaka Kailua Kona, HI Ruth Smith Ames, IA Craig Roseland Riverdale, MD Alan Tasker Riverdale, MD Oscar Winn Eagle Pass, TX Michael Telson San Francisco, CA Michael Wooten Nashville, TN plant protection and quarantine Tom Yoshinaka Lihue, HI Ada Alamani Waimanalo, HI Lawrence Zaleski Frederick, MD wildlife services Linda Beal Shafter, CA Mark Kinney Redmond, OR Michael Bechtel Raleigh, NC veterinary services Daniel Libby Chehalis, WA Dennis Blinkhorn Amelia, OH Gerardo Alarcon Santa Teresa, NM Nancy Stephan Bismarck, ND Joann Botte Boston, MA Linda Craig Sacramento, CA Jacob Wimmer Miles City, MT l Charles Brown Riverdale, MD Eileen Cramer Riverdale, MD Donovan Cho Kailua Kona, HI Mary Darragh Austin, TX

page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 ] 11 12 13 in tribute kelly hobbs and shannon tunnell

On Friday, June 5, 2015, Wildlife Services Hobbs had served with WS since 1990 and as Tunnell had served as a wildlife specialist By Pam Boehland (WS) pilot Kelly Wayne Hobbs was flying a a pilot since 1992. He had more than 35 years since 2009 and trained extensively as a small, fixed-winged aircraft while Shannon of service with the cooperative WS program crewmember for aerial wildlife damage “Bubba” Tunnell, a wildlife specialist from the and had accrued more than 13,500 hours of management activities. New Mexico Department of Agriculture, was flight experience, serving as an APHIS pilot in on board conducting coyote control when the Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. “Both of these guys had hearts bigger than plane went down near Raton, NM. Texas,” said May. “They were friends that the May said that, “Bubba was an easy going WS family and the agricultural producers of Both men were lost in the line of duty, and their guy, who was happiest out in the field on the New Mexico will miss forever.” l sacrifices were honored during the Abraham trap line with his dogs. Always a smile on his Lincoln Honor Awards at the USDA headquar- face, he spent a lot of time thinking of ways to ters in Washington, D.C, on November 5. improve the job he truly enjoyed.”

During the award ceremony, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Department of Administration Assistant Secretary Gregory Parham, and APHIS Administrator Kevin Shea presented a folded flag encased in a wooden frame to the families of the two fallen men.

“Kelly was an exceptionally skilled and well-respected pilot, and absolutely loved flying for Wildlife Services,” said Alan May, Secretary Tom Vilsack, Assistant Secretary Gregory Parham, and APHIS Administrator WS State director in New Mexico. “He Kevin Shea presented flags to family members in memory of Kelly Hobbs and Shannon was a no-nonsense, salt of the earth man Tunnell. The flags were presented during the Abraham Lincoln Honor Awards Ceremony. who took great pride in helping ranchers be Above (left photo) are Hobbs’ son Donald and daughter Vicki Crawford; (right photo) more productive.” Tunnell’s mother Sharon Null, sister Savannah Fleck, and nephew Jacob Fleck. page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [ 11 ] 12 13

question of the day

In our last issue, we asked employees, As always, thanks for responding, and Share this link with your coworkers and “For you, what is the best way to gain the remember your participation is voluntary and encourage them to participate! To take part, knowledge and skills you need to enhance confidential. click Question of the Day--Vol. 3, 2015. l your career with APHIS?”

Here’s the percentage breakdown of the answers we received. gleaning for feds feed families For you, what is the best way to gain 19% Classroom Courses APHIS employees nationwide gave generously to the 2015 the knowledge and 19% Details skills you need to Feds Feed Families (FFF) food 16% Shadow Assignments drive that ended October 2. enhance your career The agency collected a total of with APHIS? 11% Webinars 121,565 pounds of food and personal hygiene items. 35% All of the Above Employee-organized gleaning efforts contributed significantly to the total collected. Our thanks to everyone who responded to our last question. Shown here, employees and family members participate in [next question please] a gleaning event sponsored by the APHIS Emerging Leaders As 2015 draws to a close and the New Year Program. International Services, begins, many people will take the time to Plant Protection and Quarantine, reflect on their lives—both inside and outside Policy and Program Development, and Veterinary Services employees joined together to of work. glean sweet potatoes at the Mid-Atlantic Gleaning Network Warehouse. l

With that in mind, we ask: What advice would you give yourself for the coming year? (50 words or less) page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 ] 13

manager profile with burke healey

[what is your background?] shouldn’t be placed into print. Perhaps, of such a committed and energetic group of I was raised in southern Oklahoma on my dad however, the most recent was a call with individuals—from the field responders to and uncle’s beef cattle ranch and haying oper- TJ Myers where I suggested I may need the highest levels of the agency—selfless Executive Director ation. Following college and veterinary school, to stay back from an international trip to individuals with the dedication necessary Surveillance, Preparedness and I practiced small, large, and exotic veterinary assist with some highly pathogenic avian to tackle the largest event of this nature Response Services (SPRS) medicine in Arkansas and Texas before buying influenza (HPAI) questions that that we have witnessed in recent times. Veterinary Services (VS) my own practice in Oklahoma. were arising. By the time we hung up, I was the national [last book read?] My pleasure reading is usually limited to a After 10 years in practice, I was selected incident coordinator for the mystery that I grab before flights and travel as the Oklahoma State Veterinarian, a recent HPAI incident. that I can read before returning home. The position which I enjoyed for another 10 years [priorities in the coming latest title I recall was a Vince Flynn memorial before joining APHIS as the Oklahoma area months?] novel, The Survivor. veterinarian in charge. My top priority is working on finalizing [guilty pleasure?] [how long have you been with aphis?] preparations for a possible reoccur- rence of HPAI this winter/spring all the while Ah, guilty pleasures? That would have to be I joined the APHIS team in 2006 and hoping the virus has mutated enough to not jumping on the Harley and riding away with shortly after relocated from Oklahoma to be the issue it was this past spring. no connections to work or life for a short North Carolina in the Eastern Regional period—just wind and road. It is always good Office for several years before returning Concurrent priorities are focusing on my role to end up the journey with friends and family west to Fort Collins. as executive director to make adjustments in to reconnect however. the new structure of VS to better support our While in Colorado, I have had the pleasure to [favorite meal?] staff in conducting daily activities in the field. serve as an associate regional director, direc- I really like to eat, so picking a favorite food is tor of cattle health, and for the past year as [accomplishment most proud of?] kind of tough. But meals have always been the executive director of SPRS under Associ- In work, it is the fact that we were able to a time to celebrate family and friends, so any ate Deputy Administrator TJ Myers. pull together some of the greatest folks in time they are present and enjoying a relaxing meal is memorable and a pleasure. [most memorable aphis experience?] government to manage and stave off HPAI as it devastated the Midwestern poultry industry There are many wonderful experiences this past spring. It was an honor to be a part Continued on next page and memories with APHIS, some of which page APHIS page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 [ 13 ] did you know Did you know that all of the 211 roughly 90 films released nationwide, the • Employees also spent countless hours commercial facilities affected during the highly Super Bowl, and the NCAA basketball reviewing and processing indemnity pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak are tournament. claim forms, which were crucial to the now eligible to restock? depopulation efforts. l ? • In the summer months, employees managed 100+ degree temperatures while Here are some snapshot facts about the out- working in biohazard suits to help pro- break, its size, and APHIS’ response. ducers get back in business as quickly as possible. Continued from page 12 • The HPAI outbreak is the largest animal health emergency the Federal Govern- • Employees with our National Veterinary ment has ever faced. In total, 211 Services Laboratories produced more manager profile commercial and 21 backyard poultry than 220,000 tubes of the media used to flocks were affected, which resulted in transport samples. In total, they received with nearly 50 million birds being put down. nearly 3,000 samples and performed almost 14,000 tests on those samples. burke healey • More than 600 employees from across the agency deployed to • Veterinary Services’ (VS) Professional [hobbies?] emergency sites—primarily in Iowa Development Services helped provide Working around the house/farm, mo- and Minnesota, but also in other an incident overview and safety training torcycles, snow sports/skiing (No more States like Nebraska, South Dakota, to hundreds of responders, in addition snowboarding but that is another story). Washington, and Wisconsin. to creating and delivering specialized training on environmental sampling, case [favorite movie?] • During deployments, many employees management, biosecurity, and the use Another tough question, as I really like to stepped away from their normal lives, of personal protective equipment. This attend movies—whether it is a quiet date making personal sacrifices and missing training helped ensure that responders with my lovely wife or watching Minion anniversaries, birthdays, or other special had the information they needed to do movies with grandkids at the drive-in. events while deployed. They missed their work as effectively as possible while But I tend towards action type movies other popular events and things that staying safe. now that westerns don’t seem to be in we likely took for granted. For example, production anymore. l between December 2014 and late • Employees at the VS warehouse in Kan- August—when the last employees sas City sent more than 1,000 returned from field deployment—there supply shipments out to support were 6 Federal holidays, 36 weekends, the HPAI response. page