Florida's Citrus Black Spot Quarantine Expands to New Counties!

Highlands County, Florida, USA - In a significant move aimed at curbing the spread of Citrus Black Spot (CBS), the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has announced an expansion of quarantine areas across Florida. This action, prompted by confirmed detections of the fungal pathogen Phyllosticta citricarpa, will take effect immediately and encompasses measures to protect the state’s vital citrus industry.

The quarantine expansion will now include nine sections in Collier County, seven sections in Glades County, and seven sections in Hendry County. Notably, new quarantined areas have also been established in DeSoto County and Highlands County, totaling 17 and one section respectively. This is a response to monitoring activities for the 2024/2025 growing season, as FreshPlaza reports.

Impacts on Citrus Producers

Citrus Black Spot is notorious for causing blemishes on fruit and can lead to substantial yield losses, particularly impacting sweet oranges like the ‚Valencia‘ variety. All commercial citrus species in Florida are vulnerable. Growers are already facing challenges due to this persistent disease, first identified in Florida back in 2010, primarily in Collier and Hendry Counties. Currently, CBS is confined to parts of eight counties in Southwest Florida, as USDA notes.

The new Federal Order DA-2024-30 introduces more stringent regulations for the movement of fresh citrus fruit and other plant parts. While growers can still transport fresh citrus out of the quarantined areas, they must process their fruits using APHIS-approved methods and pack them in compliance with specific guidelines. Transporting leafy materials for consumption also falls under new rules that require handling under a compliance agreement.

Monitoring and Management

With CBS being particularly favored by the warm, humid climate of Florida, especially from May to September, the USDA emphasizes the need for proactive management practices in groves. Monthly fungicide applications are recommended, alongside cultural practices such as minimizing plant trash movement and maintaining proper nutrition programs. University of Florida emphasizes that growers must implement these best practices to keep the disease in check and support fruit health.

Furthermore, those involved in the citrus supply chain—producers, caretakers, and transporters—must adhere to compliance agreements to mitigate disease spread. New packinghouse procedures have been introduced to ensure that all citrus material is treated and transported safely, particularly regarding sanitation measures for equipment that has come into contact with regulated articles.

Looking Ahead

As the situation continues to evolve, citrus producers and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments and compliance requirements. With random inspections set to ensure adherence to recommended practices, maintaining vigilance is more critical than ever. For guidance and additional information, producers can reach out to APHIS National Policy Manager Abby R. Stilwell at (919) 323-6296 or via email at abby.r.stilwell@usda.gov.

Florida’s citrus industry has weathered many storms over the years, and there’s something to be said for the resilience of its growers. As they navigate these new challenges, let’s hope for fruitful harvests ahead.