CRAE convenes panel on LBAM

2008. In spring 2008, CRAE began discussing the discovery and treatment of the invasive pest Light Brown Apple Moth (LBAM) in the greater San Francisco Bay area. The problem of invasive pests that are likely to affect California agriculture is expected to increase as products are increasingly being shipped across state and federal borders. CRAE is currently working to develop recommendations to mitigate against these impacts in the future.

In June, CRAE held a panel discussion on the light brown apple moth to build understanding and help guide future action. Panelists included Robert Leavitt from CDFA, Ted Batkin from the Citrus Research Board, Paul Schramski from Pesticide Watch, and James Carey, an entomologist from UC Davis. The panel was also joined by Nan Wishner from the City of Albany. The discussion served to illuminate diverging perspectives on the infestation and ideal responses. CRAE launched a project to better safeguard against invasive pests in the future and promote improved and well-coordinated responses.