I received an orchid shipment today from California. I noticed a sticker on the exterior of the package which is apparently mandated by the USDA - APHIS - PPQ,

"CERTIFIED UNDER

FEDERAL DOMESTIC QUARANTINE ORDER

LIGHT BROWN APPLE MOTH

EPIPHYAS POSTVITTANA

42QLBAM0003572

I'm not immediately concerned about fruit from California; there is more than enough locally harvested fruit available :)

What is going on? Especially as it relates to the eastern half of the USA? I don't want the apple orchards of Md,Va & WVa to be contaminated! Obviously, the USDA is monitoring this situation.

Is this an excellent example of our tax money AT WORK?

Oh, my!! :)

--Stitz--

Here is a link that might be useful: USDA/Light Brown Apple Moth