Two adult Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) samples have tested positive for Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas)—the bacteria that causes Huanglongbing (HLB)—in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Both detections were confirmed on March 10, with one found at a residential property in the city of Santa Barbara and the other in a commercial grove near Fillmore.
No HLB quarantines will be established, as quarantines are only triggered by a positive plant detection. Both sites are currently outside existing HLB quarantine zones.
The Citrus Pest and Disease Prevention Division (CPDPD) has conducted intensive surveys and collected plant samples in and around both detection sites. While treatment is not mandatory, voluntary treatments are strongly encouraged to help limit ACP spread. In Santa Barbara, no-cost treatments are being offered to properties within 50 meters of the detection. In Fillmore, growers within 250 meters are encouraged to treat host material using UC-recommended products.
These detections underscore the importance of continued vigilance. Early treatment and monitoring remain critical to preventing the spread of ACP and potential HLB infection.
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