California’s citrus industry has breathed a sigh of relief as tests on the recent discovery of Asian citrus psyllids in Tulare County have come back negative for the disease Huanglongbing (HLB).
HLB is a citrus tree disease which causes stunted growth and the production of small, irregularly shaped fruit which is green at the bottom and bitter to the taste, before resulting in the death of the entire plant.
Despite this good fortune for the industry, state officials are planning a quarantine zone likely to comprise 80 square miles (128.7km²) in Tulare and Fresno countries.
According to the agricultural commissioner for Fresno County, Les Wright, there may be a significant amount of commercial citrus in both counties to be included in this quarantine zone.
Agricultural officials are continuing to investigate how such a dense concentration of psyllids ended up in such a small area.
The trees and surrounding area were immediately treated to kill the pests, but additional spray treatment may be administered should officials consider it necessary.
Wright is putting his energies into raising awareness among local residents of the serious implications of the pest for the local citrus industry and how they can assist in keeping psyllid populations from spreading.
This includes correct disposal of tree trimmings and fruit within a quarantine zone and may form part of a statewide campaign.
