The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) wants to ensure that all residents and visitors to the San Luis Valley are aware of important quarantine regulations regarding the importation of Prunus species (which includes plums, cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots, and more) into Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Rio Grande, and Saguache Counties. These regulations are crucial for protecting local agriculture which is a major economic driver for the San Luis Valley.
Nearly all Prunus species are prohibited from entering these counties with only a few exceptions, to safeguard the health of the potato fields across the San Luis Valley. The goal of this quarantine is to prevent the introduction and spread of plant diseases. The prohibited species serve as over-wintering hosts of the primary aphid vector of certain viral diseases that affect potatoes.
“Adhering to these import restrictions is incredibly important for the long-term health and prosperity of the San Luis Valley's agricultural industry,” said Wondirad Gebru, Director of CDA’s Plant Industry Division. “By understanding and following these guidelines, everyone can play a vital role in protecting our local farms and ensuring the continued success of agricultural communities. It's about being good stewards of our land and protecting our neighbors' livelihoods.”
Before bringing any Prunus plants into these counties, please review the Colorado regulations thoroughly to ensure compliance. All Prunus species with the exception of Prunus besseyi, Prunus cistena, Prunus glandulosa, Prunus maackii, Prunus tomentosa, Prunus triloba and Prunus virginiana are prohibited entry into Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Rio Grande, and Saguache Counties of Colorado. For complete details of all of the above please see the entire text of the Quarantine on the Importation of Prunus Species into the San Luis Valley, 8 CCR 1203-18.
More information about the Prunus quarantine can be found on the CDA Plant Imports website. Anyone can download informational posters and social media materials for educational purposes. Thank you for helping us protect the San Luis Valley's precious agricultural resources.