Growers in the South Valley are now spraying pesticides to fight a citrus pest.
The spraying is mandatory for some homeowners and growers because of the Asian citrus psyllid, which has been discovered in the Strathmore-Lindsay area.
The Asian citrus psyllid is an aphid-like insect that feeds on the leaves and stems of citrus trees and other citrus-like plants.
The reason for concern is that the pest can carry a bacteria known as Citrus Greening Disease that is deadly to citrus plants.
A mild pesticide is now being used in the affected area.
Tulare County Ag Commissioner, Marilyn Kinoshita said, "Within the 800 meters around the psyllid find northeast of Strathmore there's an eradication area and the treatments are mandatory."
Transporting citrus fruit and plants is also restricted in a 163 square miles area of Tulare County.
Click the related link for more information on the restrictions and spraying.
