Award-Winning European Grapevine Moth Eradication Program
September 18, 2012 Several years ago, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) detected a new pest in California — the European grapevine moth, an invasive species that targets a number of plants, notably grapes.
Because California is the leading grape producer in the country and one of the largest in the world, CDFA understood immediately that the stakes were enormous for the wine, raisin and table grape industries, and the response was decisive.
The agency teamed with stakeholders at the USDA, including the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), as well as the University of California. They worked with key California counties and the grape and tree fruit industry to put an eradication plan in place that has been very successful, so far.
Relying largely on fruit removal from residential properties and industry-driven treatment programs in commercial vineyards, the European grapevine moth population has dropped dramatically, and the USDA has determined that the effort is worthy of the APHIS Administrator’s Award.
The letter announcing the award notes the program has protected the California grape and tree fruit industry by preventing the establishment of the European grapevine moth. While that’s definitely true, and an achievement worthy of attention, CDFA knows full well that their work isn’t done, says Robert Leavitt, director, CDFA Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services.
“We will continue to protect the food supply and natural resources of our state from this and many other invasive species. It’s what we do,” he says. “We’re pleased with these results, proud of our team, and grateful for the partnerships we share in making this recognition possible.”
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