Congresswoman Lee Responds to Light Brown Apple Moth Decision
For Immediate Release
June 19, 2008
Contact: Julie Nickson
202-225-2661
(Washington D.C.)- The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) have announced yesterday a revised plan to address the light brown apple moth (LBAM) population that will include no aerial spraying of urban areas for the duration of the program.
In April, Congresswoman Lee sent a letter to the USDA calling for the halt of future aerial spraying pending further review of the proposed eradication plan as well as much-needed, independent study of the potential impact on both public health and the environment.
In response to the decision, Congresswoman Lee issued the following statement:
“I commend CDFA and USDA in their decision to stop aerial spraying of urban areas. I am also pleased that the revised CDFA/USDA LBAM action plan promises the completion of a critical Environmental Impact Report.
“It is vitally important that any eradication effort meets critical environmental and public health standards and that the public be included in the process.
“I will continue to closely monitor the situation and will work to ensure the concerns of our community are heard and addressed.”