Infestation of an invasive insect, the Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP), have been detected in citrus trees in and around San Gabriel. ACP extract large amounts of sap from plants or trees as the pests feed and produce copious amounts of honeydew. The honeydew then coats leaves and leads to the growth of mold. However, the most serious damage caused by the ACP is its ability to transmit a bacterial disease call Huanglongbing (HLB) to citrus trees. HLB is fatal to citrus trees. Establishment of ACP and HLB in California will threaten California's citrus industry and residential citrus trees. HLB does not directly harm humans or pets, only citrus trees and closely related plant species. Once infected with HLB, a tree will deteriorate and die, typically within a few years.
A public meeting will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the San Gabriel Library, Multi-Purpose Room, 500 S Del Mar Avenue. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and cooperating agencies will be present to answer any questions regarding the program for interested citizens in the treatment area.
A diluted formulation of Tempo® SC Ultra (cyfluthrin), a contact insecticide, will be applied to the leaves of citrus trees and plants to counter Asian citrus psyllid adults and nymphs. This material will be applied at least one time at designated residential properties. Residents of affected properties will be notified individually at least 48 hours prior to any application of insecticide.