Revises Requirements for Importation and Interstate Movement of Plant Pests, Biocontrol Agents, and Soil The comment period for APHIS’ proposed rule to revise the regulations in 7 CFR part 330 that govern the movement into and within the United States of plant pests, biological control agents, and soil, has been extended until April 19, 2017. This 30 day extension will …
Notice of Availability of Proposed Changes to the National Poultry Improvement Plan Program Standards
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) invites the public to review and comment on proposed changes to the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) Program Standards. The proposed updates would amend the Program Standards by establishing new biosecurity principles and updating some testing procedures.
Changes Aimed at Ending the Inhumane Practice of Horse Soring
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) today announced a final rule that includes changes that will help to protect horses from the cruel and inhumane practice known as soring and eliminate the unfair competitive advantage that sore horses have over horses that are not sore. The practice of soring is intended to produce …
APHIS Confirms New World Screwworm in Miami-Dade County, Florida
The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) in a stray dog near Homestead, Florida. The dog was isolated and his infested wounds were treated. He is now in good health. Federal and state officials have started active surveillance in the area. This is the …
Final Rule to Allow Lemons from Northwest Argentina into the Continental United States
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is publishing a final rule to allow the importation of fresh lemon fruit from northwest Argentina into the continental United States. Over the last 10 years, APHIS has thoroughly reviewed Argentina’s citrus production and packing practices and fully evaluated pest risks to U.S. agriculture. The review included …