European Grapevine Moth Quarantine Expands

By Growing Produce Staff|May 20, 2010

California winegrape growers remain concerned about the European grapevine moth (EGVM). Numerous detections have resulted in the addition of portions of Fresno and Mendocino counties to the EGVM quarantine, and they have also expanded existing quarantine areas in Napa, Sonoma and Solano counties.

“We have set an array of more than 40,000 traps statewide to determine exactly where the infestations exist,” said the secretary of the state’s Department of Agriculture, A.G. Kawamura. “Detecting the pest is an important first step toward controlling it, and quarantines are the next step in the process. These regulations allow us to protect surrounding uninfested areas by preventing movement of the insects on crops, harvesting equipment and related articles.”

Previously quarantined areas in Napa, Solano, and Sonoma counties are expanding by approximately 827 square miles. New quarantine areas are being created in Fresno County (approximately 96 square miles) and in Mendocino County (approximately 140 square miles). The state’s total EGVM quarantine area now stands at approximately 1395 square miles. Maps of the quarantined areas are available online at: http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/PE/InteriorExclusion/egvm_quarantine.html

The quarantines primarily affect growers as well as those who harvest, transport and otherwise process or handle crops. Agricultural officials have already begun the process of informing those involved in the industry of the requirements.

Homeowners, plant nurseries, landscapers and other citizens and businesses who work with plants are also involved in the quarantine, though. For example, residents who have grapes, stone fruit trees (peaches, plums, etc.) and other “host plants” for this pest in their yards are asked to harvest and consume their fruit on-site to further limit the risk of spreading the pest.