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The red imported fire ant (RIFA) (Solenopsis invicta) is a serious pest of agricultural, urban, and native environments in the areas that it has invaded. It is not present in Hawaii. An information sheet on this ant and its threat to Hawaii is available. In order to prevent the introduction of this ant into the state, an interim rule 99-1 went into effect July 19, 1999 and shall be valid for 180 days unless rescinded. This interim rule regulates the importation of all rooted plants and plant cuttings with soil or media attached and baled hay and straw. All plants and plant parts in media imported from a RIFA infested area require a USDA compliance certificate. Shipments without this certificate will be refused entry unless they have been treated with an approved treatment. Treated plants will be inspected and released at the port of entry, if free of pests. Untreated shipments with a compliance certificate will be held for five days by the Plant Quarantine Branch in order to conduct a thorough inspection. Plants and plant parts in media imported from a state that is partially infested will have the same requirements as above if the shipment is from an infested area of the state. Shipments from an uninfested area of a partially infested state will be ordered to the Plant Quarantine Office for 100% inspection before release. There are no approved treatments for baled hay and straw. Hay and straw from infested areas will be held for a 5-day inspection. Shipments from uninfested areas will be inspected and released (if no pests are present) at the port of entry. Documentation stating the county of origin should accompany shipments from uninfested areas to alleviate inspection delays. |
