Importation of summer squash flowers to be allowed into the U.S.

USDA-Animal and Plant health Inspection Service has advised the public of its decision to begin issuing permits for the importation into the continental U.S. of fresh male summer squash flowers from Israel. Based on the findings of a pest risk analysis, which was made available to the public for review and comment, APHIS officials believe that the application of one or more designated phytosanitary measures will be sufficient to mitigate the risks of introducing or disseminating plant pests or noxious weeds via the importation of the Israeli flowers.

After reviewing one comment, APHIS officials made the decision to allow import of the flowers provided that each commercial consignment of flowers is accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate stating that the consignment has been inspected and found free of Helicoverpa armigera and Scirtothrips dorsalis. Each consignment is subject to inspection at the port of entry.

This action is published in today’s May 25 Federal Register and it becomes effective upon publication