P. ramorum rules will sunset in 2007
Federal rules regarding the inspection of West Coast nurseries for Phytophthora ramorum, the sudden oak death pathogen, are scheduled to sunset (phase out) in December 2007. The industry can expect USDA's APHIS to support some provisions of the existing federal order beyond 2007, said Jonathan Jones, APHIS nat'l. P. ramorum project manager. The federal order, in place since December 2004, requires California, Oregon and Washington growers to inspect host and non-host plants. Jones said that starting in 2008, unless shown necessary, there will be no federally mandated nursery inspections. However, state provisions could be in place.
Immigration-reform rally planned for this week
Members of Agriculture Coalition for Immigration Reform (ACIR) will gather in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday to urge Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform. "We need to stress to Congress that agriculture needs a viable guest-worker program and earned legalization for our trained and trusted workforce in addition to border security," said Jeanne Little, Society of American Florists sr. dir. of gov't. relations. "And with Congress preparing for elections this year, we only have a small window of time to do that."
Loropetalums show copper deficiencies
Univ. of Ga. is researching loropetalum varieties showing signs of copper deficiencies. The primary cultivars identified with these problems are 'Ruby,' 'Suzanne' and 'Sizzling Pink,' said John Ruter, professor headquartered at the university's Coastal Plain Station in Tifton, Ga. Applying copper at 3 times the recommended rate typically ends physical symptoms.
Sirex woodwasp detected in New York, Pennsylvania
Sirex woodwasp (Sirex noctilio) was found for the 1st time in Pennsylvania and in 13 new New York counties, according to North American Plant Protection Org. This pest is a significant threat to pine populations. Native to Europe, Asia and Africa, it attacks living pines while native woodwasps attack only dead or dying trees. The Pennsylvania detection took place in Tioga County. The pest was 1st detected in New York in 2004.
Sterility technique could control cactus moth
USDA researchers are rearing sterile male cactus moths (Cactoblastis cactorum) for release in the South in hopes of controlling this pest of prickly pear cactus (Opuntia). The release of sterile males reduces the odds that females will produce viable eggs. USDA estimates trade, nursery, landscape, crop and forage value of prickly pear cactus at $70 million a year. The moth was first found in North America in Florida in 1989. Unless slowed, it's expected to reach the Texas border by 2007.
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