WSDA Expands Rules Governing Apple Maggot

In May 2016, WSDA issued emergency rules addressing apple maggots, expanding the items that are regulated under the existing quarantine.  Pest Program Manager Jim Mara told the Washington Ag Network, now the rules cover all municipal organic waste.

“We were first notified of the intentions of some of the compost facilities on the Eastside of the state that were going to be importing organic waste from the Westside of the state.  That means they would cross the quarantine boundaries.”

And since much of western Washington is quarantined in some fashion, this recent request prompted the state to take action.  In addition, under the emergency rules, another transporting Organic Waste that originates in the quarantine zone must obtain a special permit issued by the WSDA.  To learn more about the WSDA’s efforts, the apple maggot, the quarantine areas, visit WSDA's Website.

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