A quarantine has been declared in parts of San Diego County following the detection of Mexican fruit flies during a routine inspection in La Mesa. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has established a quarantine zone impacting Spring Valley, Bonita, and five additional cities within the county.
Quarantine Zone
The quarantine covers approximately 77 square miles, bordered by the San Diego River to the north, Sweetwater Reservoir to the south, Interstate 15 to the west, and the city of El Cajon to the east. A map of the quarantine area is available at www.cdfa.ca.gov/plant/mexfly/regulation.html.
Affected Cities
- El Cajon
- La Mesa
- Lemon Grove
- San Diego
- Santee
The USDA, the San Diego County Agricultural Commissioner, and the CDFA are collaborating to manage the situation and offer guidance to those involved in the production and sale of fruits and plants.
Eradication Measures
Efforts to control the infestation will include the release of sterile male Mexican fruit flies. Properties within 200 meters of where the flies are detected will be treated with an organic formulation of Spinosad, a bacteria-derived substance. Fruit will also be removed from sites within 100 meters where larvae or flies are found.
Impact on Residents and Businesses
The quarantine affects growers, wholesalers, retailers, and nurseries. Home gardeners are advised to consume any homegrown produce on the property where it is grown and avoid transporting it elsewhere. Residents who believe their fruits or vegetables may be infested are encouraged to contact the state’s Pest Hotline at 1‑800‑491‑1899.
Authorities believe these pests often arrive by “hitchhiking” in fruits or vegetables brought into the state by travelers. The CDFA urges travelers to follow the Don’t Pack a Pest guidelines available at www.dontpackapest.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are under quarantine?
The quarantine affects Spring Valley, Bonita, and the cities of El Cajon, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, San Diego, and Santee. The zone is approximately 77 square miles.
What is being done to eradicate the flies?
Eradication efforts include releasing sterile male Mexican fruit flies, treating properties with Spinosad within 200 meters of detections, and removing fruit within 100 meters of detected larvae or flies.
Who should I contact if I suspect an infestation?
Residents who suspect their fruits or vegetables may be infested should call the state’s toll‑free Pest Hotline at 1‑800‑491‑1899.
How might this situation evolve? the quarantine area could be expanded if additional flies are detected. Continued monitoring and eradication efforts are likely to be necessary to fully resolve the issue.
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