Infestation of an exotic insect known as Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) and a bacterial disease called huanglongbing (HLB) have been detected in host plants in the city of San Gabriel. Direct injury caused by ACP results from the withdrawal of large amounts of sap from the plant as they feed and produce copious amounts of honeydew. The honeydew coats the leaves of the tree, encouraging sooty mold to grow. However, the most serious damage caused by the ACP is its ability to transmit the huanglongbing disease to citrus trees. The HLB disease is fatal to citrus trees. Establishment of ACP and HLB in California will negatively impact all of California’s citrus industry and all backyard citrus trees through death of the diseased trees.
A public meeting will be held on Wednesday, Apr. 19 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the San Gabriel Library, Multi-Purpose Room, 500 S Del Mar Avenue. The CDFA and cooperating agencies will be present to answer any questions regarding the program for interested citizens in the treatment area.
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