The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant and Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is announcing the availability of a draft environmental assessment regarding options for actions it can take to eradicate the horntail snail, (Macrochlamys indica), from Miami-Dade County, Florida. The document addresses the environmental impacts of conducting eradication activities in this area and potential alternatives.&
In June 2020, a citizen reported finding the horntail snail in an urban area in Miami-Dade County. This terrestrial snail is believed to be an agricultural plant pest that is highly invasive, and could negatively affect agriculture, natural ecosystems, and commerce in the United States. Since the detection, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has surveyed thousands of residential properties and ornamental plant nurseries. Although the snail is not known to be in Broward, Collier, and Palm Beach counties, APHIS included these counties in the draft environmental assessment because of their proximity to the snail infestation.
APHIS is seeking public comment on the draft environmental assessment until January 26, 2022, and will thoroughly review and consider all comments before publishing a final environmental assessment.
The draft environmental assessment is available at www.regulations.gov by searching: “Horntail Snail Cooperative Eradication Program.”
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