OTTAWA, November 22, 2007 - In response to early October test results indicating the
possible presence of Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN) in northern Alberta, the Canadian Food
Inspection Agency (CFIA) launched an investigation to confirm the presence of this pest
and the extent of its possible distribution. The investigation, which includes extensive
soil sampling and testing, continues and has not yet confirmed the presence of PCN in the
area.
PCN does not pose a risk to human health, but is considered a quarantine pest because
it can reduce the yields of host crops such as potatoes, tomatoes and eggplants by up to
80 per cent.
Following initial test results, the CFIA immediately placed strict regulatory measures
on the implicated farms to control the potential spread of PCN. These control measures are
consistent with internationally recognized scientific standards and the CFIA is confident
that these measures will protect non-infested areas in the event that the presence of PCN
is confirmed.
The CFIA, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the Province of Alberta are working
together with growers, the implicated agricultural sectors, industry and Canadas
trading partners to respond to this issue and protect Canadian farmers.
Canada is keeping its trading partners, including the United States and Mexico,
apprised of the investigation as it evolves. Until the investigation is complete and more
definitive information is available, the CFIA and the U.S. Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service have placed temporary restrictions on the movement of potatoes from
Alberta to the U.S. including the following:
a temporary ban on exporting seed potatoes from Alberta to the U.S.
a requirement that potatoes for consumption must be substantially free from soil, and
that bulk shipments of potatoes to the U.S. for consumption or processing must be
accompanied by an official form indicating that the potatoes have been cleaned and are
substantially free from soil.
Programs are in place to provide farmers with access to financial assistance for farm
income losses, including those caused by the regulatory measures imposed following suspect
findings of PCN.
Due to the ongoing nature of this investigation, new
information will be provided as it becomes available and posted on the CFIAs
website: www.inspection.gc.ca.
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For more information:
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
National Media Relations: 613-228-6682
Main Page - Potato Cyst Nematode
