Growers in the South Valley are now spraying pesticides to fight
a citrus pest. The spraying is mandatory for some homeowners and
growers because of the Asian citrus psyllid, which has been
discovered in the Strathmore-Lindsay area. The Asian citrus
psyllid is an aphid-like insect that feeds on the leaves and
stems of citrus trees and other citrus-like plants. The reason
for concern is that the pest can carry a bacteria known as
Citrus Greening Disease that is deadly to citrus plants. A mild
pesticide is now being used in the affected area. Tulare County
Ag Commissioner, Marilyn Kinoshita said, "Within the 800 meters
around the psyllid find northeast of Strathmore there's an
eradication area and the treatments are mandatory." Transporting
citrus fruit and plants is also restricted in a 163 square miles
area of Tulare County. Click the related link for more
information on the restrictions and spraying.