On October 10, 2014, Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP), Diaphorina citri, a serious exotic pest, was identified from two areas of San Joaquin County. One psyllid was trapped from a backyard tree in the city of Lodi, and another in a residential area in Manteca. Quarantine zones have been set up around both areas

The quarantine prohibits the movement of citrus and curry tree nursery stock out of the quarantine area and requires that all citrus fruit be cleaned of leaves and stems prior to moving out of the quarantine area. Residents with backyard citrus trees in the quarantine area are asked not to transport citrus fruit or leaves, potted citrus trees, or curry leaves from the quarantine area.

The ACP is an invasive species of grave concern because it can carry the disease huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening. All citrus and closely related species, such as curry trees, are susceptible hosts for both the insect and the disease. There is no cure once a tree becomes infected and the diseased plant will decline in health and produce bitter, misshaped fruit until it dies. The HLB disease has decimated the Florida citrus industry, causing billions of dollars in economic damage and thousands of lost jobs as a result. Locally, county agricultural agencies are working diligently with CDFA and USDA to limit and mitigate the spread of this disease. Asian Citrus Psyllid populations are currently expanding into northern California, while many diseased trees are being located in Los Angeles County residential areas. This plant disease does not affect human health.

For more information, see links below, or contact San Joaquin County Agricultural Commissioner's office at (209) 953-6000

For additional information click the links below