Texas Department of Agriculture Enacts Emergency Quarantine to Combat Invasive Leafhopper Threatening Cotton Industry

What's Happening?

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), led by Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, has implemented an emergency quarantine to address the spread of the invasive two-spotted cotton leafhopper, also known as the cotton jassid. This pest, originally from Asia, has been spreading across the southeastern United States and poses a significant threat to Texas's cotton industry, which accounts for 40% of the nation's cotton supply. The quarantine affects shipments from several states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas counties where the pest has been detected. The TDA's measures include the destruction of infested plants, rejection of non-compliant nursery stock shipments, and increased monitoring at border stations and nurseries. The pest damages crops such as cotton, hibiscus, and okra, causing significant agricultural losses.

Why It's Important?

The emergency quarantine is crucial for protecting Texas's cotton industry, a vital component of the state's economy. The cotton jassid can cause severe damage to crops, leading to potential losses of up to 50%. By implementing these measures, the TDA aims to prevent the pest from establishing itself in Texas, thereby safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers and the broader agricultural sector. The quarantine also highlights the importance of maintaining rigorous agricultural inspections and the need for cooperation among growers, retailers, and consumers to prevent the spread of invasive species.

What's Next?

The emergency order is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice. The TDA is conducting expanded inspections in collaboration with the USDA and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. The department urges growers, retailers, and consumers to report any suspicious plant activity and to refrain from moving infested plants. The TDA is committed to using all available resources to combat the pest, similar to past efforts against other agricultural threats. Ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the quarantine will be made as necessary to ensure the protection of Texas's agricultural interests.