Recent detection of Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly) in Half Moon Bay has resulted in quarantine of fruits and vegetables in a 56-square-mile portion of San Mateo County from Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir to the Coast, bordered by San Vicente Creek in Moss Beach on the north, and Lobitos Creek Rd on the south.
Sterile male Medflies will be released in the area as part of the eradication effort (press release).
Medfly can infest more than 250 types of fruits and vegetables, causing severe impacts on California agricultural exports and backyard gardens alike. The most common pathway for these invasive species to enter our state is by “hitchhiking” in fruits and vegetables brought back illegally by travelers as they return from infested regions of the world. To help protect California’s agriculture and natural resources, follow the Don’t Pack a Pest program guidelines.