FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 30, 2020
Contact: Mary Peck, 720-428-0441, mary.peck@state.co.us
Broomfield, Colo. - In response to numerous reports from across the state of people receiving unsolicited packages of seeds in the mail, the Colorado Department of Agriculture has activated a dedicated reporting hotline number. Those who have received unsolicited seeds in the mail are asked to call 303-869-9081 to report them. Reports of mailings may also be submitted via email at cda_nursery@state.co.us.
The packages appear to have originated from China and other countries and many are labeled as containing jewelry or other items. The Department currently has no reason to believe these packages are dangerous, and is taking all precautions to ensure safety. Unsolicited seeds could be invasive, introduce diseases to local plants, or be harmful to livestock.
Anyone who receives an unsolicited package of seeds is asked to hold onto the seeds and packaging in its original package safely, including the mailing label, until contacted by the Colorado Department of Agriculture or the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service with further instructions. Do not plant seeds from unknown origins, and do not put the seeds in the trash, which could ultimately end up in the landfill and then sprout.
USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is working closely with the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection and State departments of agriculture to prevent the unlawful entry of prohibited seeds and protect U.S. agriculture from invasive pests and noxious weeds.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
The Colorado Department of Agriculture exists to support the state's agriculture industry and serve the people of Colorado through regulation, advocacy and education. Our mission is to strengthen and advance Colorado agriculture, promote a safe and high-quality food supply, protect consumers, and foster responsible stewardship of the environment and natural resources.