Peach Fruit Fly Detected On Peninsula: State Ag Dept. To Spray

PALO ALTO, CA — The California Department of Food and Agriculture will conduct limited treatments in two areas of Palo Alto after two invasive peach fruit flies were identified and confirmed within the last two weeks.

The detections were made as part of a coordinated pest prevention system that protects agriculture, community and natural resources from invasive species.

As a result of the confirmed detections, organic bait treatments will be applied beginning July 11 within a 1.5-mile radius from where the fruit flies were found.

The state agriculture department uses a “male attractant” technique as the mainstay of its eradication effort for this invasive species. This approach has successfully eliminated dozens of fruit fly infestations in California.

Trained workers squirt a small amount of fruit fly attractant mixed with a very small dose of an organic material approximately 8- to 10 feet off the ground on street trees and similar surfaces. Male fruit flies are attracted to the mixture and perish after consuming it.

An extended survey will be conducted with multiple peach fruit fly traps placed at 4.5 miles in each direction from original detection sites.

Individuals living or visiting California are encouraged to help protect California’s agricultural and natural resources and to not mail packages or travel with food, plants or other agricultural items that may contain pests and diseases that can be harmful to native species. See www.dontpackapest.com.

While fruit flies and other invasive species that threaten California’s crops and natural environment are sometimes detected in agricultural areas, the vast majority are found in urban and suburban communities.

Peach fruit flies can affect 42 different fruit crops, including peaches, apples, apricots, citrus, tomatoes, watermelons, dates and avocados.

Residents with questions about the project may call the Santa Clara County Agricultural Commissioner’s office at 408-918-4600 or read the additional information.