U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists in El Paso are currently focused on ensuring that flowers imported for Mother's Day are free from pests and diseases. The observance of Mother's Day in Mexico is on May 10, while the U.S. celebrates it on May 11.
"This is always one of the busiest weeks of the year for CBP agriculture specialists," said Hector Mancha, CBP Director of Field Operations in El Paso. "Vigilant CBP agriculture specialists are hard at work making certain that any imported floral arrangements are free from insects, pests, and disease."
The increase in flower imports during this period poses a risk to American agriculture due to potential pests and diseases. To protect crops and the environment, certain plants and soil cannot cross the border to prevent invasive species from spreading.
CBP specialists inspect all flowers entering the U.S., using tools like magnifying glasses to detect pests or diseases. If found, these samples are sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for identification using advanced technologies.
While roses and carnations can enter after inspection, Chrysanthemums are restricted when brought from Mexico through passenger ports due to threats like Chrysanthemum White Rust. Similarly, bouquet fillers such as Murraya can carry pests harmful to citrus crops; infested arrangements will be seized.
Travelers must declare any plants or flowers upon arrival, as soilborne pests present risks too. Even though harmful pests appear in only a small percentage of inspected flowers, they could cause significant crop damage if introduced.
CBP advises travelers bringing agricultural products into the U.S. to consult their guidelines before traveling abroad. Declaring items acquired abroad helps avoid penalties and prevents pest introduction into ecosystems.
Real-time Border Wait Times information is available online or via an app for travel planning convenience.
CBP remains America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to securing borders while facilitating lawful trade and travel.
