USDA PROPOSES REVISION TO PLANT PEST REGULATIONS

USDA PROPOSES REVISION TO PLANT PEST REGULATIONS    The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has proposed changes to plant pest regulations that would update the current positions regarding movement of plant pests and other regulated organisms.
   The proposed changes include adding risk-based criteria for determining the plant pest status of organisms, establishing a notification process that can be used as an alternative to the current permitting system, and providing the environmental release of organisms for the biological control of weeds.
   APHIS said these changes will help clarify the factors considered when assessing the plant pest risks associated with certain organisms. The changes will also facilitate the importation and interstate movement of regulated organisms, and address gaps in current regulations.
   The public is invited to comment on the proposed changes. Comments must be received by the USDA by Dec. 10.
   For more information, contact Robert Flanders, risk assessment chief, plant protection and quarantine, APHIS, as (301) 734-5930. APHIS documents may be viewed at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/ppd/rad/webrepor.html .