Aug 16, 2016

USDA seeks comments on exotic fruit fly eradication program

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking public comment on an updated environmental impact statement (EIS) that analyzes the effects of exotic fruit fly eradication programs in the United States and its territories.

APHIS last published an EIS on the environmental effects of the fruit fly cooperative control program in 2001. Under the National Environmental Policy Act, federal agencies must examine the potential environmental effects of proposed federal actions and alternatives significantly affecting the quality of the human environment before taking that action, according to USDA.

APHIS uses an integrated pest management approach to eradicate infestations including chemical and nonchemical control measures. Chemical options may include applications of insecticides and/or the use of detection and control attractants. Nonchemical control methods include sterile insect technique (SIT) and fruit stripping from areas in and around the detection sites.

This notice identifies potential issues and alternatives that will be studied in the environmental impact statement, and requests public comments to further delineate the scope of the alternatives and environmental impacts and issues.

APHIS will consider all comments received on or before Sept. 26, 2016. Comments may be submitted by either of the following methods:

• Federal eRulemaking Portal
• Mail comments to:
  Docket No. APHIS-2016-0031, Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS, Station 3A-03.8, 4700 River Road Unit 118, Riverdale, MD 20737-1238.