Another unwanted concern has emerged for Californian fresh produce growers with the discovery of the European grapevine moth in the state - the first appearance of the moth in the US.
The pest was discovered in the Napa County region earlier in the month, with adult moths discovered in one location and larvae found in several different areas, according to the county's agriculture commissioner Dave Whitmer.
European grapevine moths present a threat to fresh fruit production as the larvae feed on the fruit of crops including grapes, cherries, berries, nectarines and pomegranates, The Packer reported.
The United States Department of Agriculture has responded to the news by forming a technical working group to draw up ways of combating the pest, although the full extent of the infestation is not expected to be revealed until next spring.
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