loading...

Many in the Washington Ag community are not happy with Governor Jay Inslee after he brought apples that contained apple maggot larvae from Thurston County to North Central Washington. While she appreciates the gesture by the Governor, Moses Lake Senator Judy Warnick said the quarantined areas established across the state are not to be taken lightly.

"Apple maggots is one of the biggest issues that we have had to face especially for our export markets.  So, I'm very, very disappointed."

Warnick said produce from western Washington must undergo stringent safety measures to prevent maggot infestations. She added that signs are posted across central and eastern Washington, warning not to transport apples from quarantined areas.

Warnick added Inslee should have followed the law to keep Washington’s already fragile Ag economy safe.

"I have spent a good part of my legislative career trying to protect our agriculture products."

Warnick said she will urge the Washington state Department of Agriculture to investigate.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com

More From PNW Ag Network