APHIS is proposing rule to allow the importation of fresh raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) fruit from Morocco into the continental United States. The proposed rule will be available for review and comment beginning August 26, 2016.
Raspberries may carry a fungal pest (Monilinia fructigena) that is found in Morocco. The proposed rule allows fresh raspberry fruit from Morocco into the continental United States under a systems approach to include registration of growing areas with the government of Morocco, inspections, and a phytosanitary certificate to ensure the fruit was inspected and found free of the fungus.
APHIS conducted a pest risk assessment (PRA) that identifies the fungus as a pest of concern, and a risk management document (RMD) that recommends phytosanitary measures to prevent the risk of entry of the fungus.
APHIS will carefully consider all comments received by October 25, 2016, and then make its decision regarding any change to the Agency’s import regulations for fresh raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) fruit from Morocco into the continental United States.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by either of the following methods:
- Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=APHIS-2015-0053
- Postal Mail/Commercial Delivery: Send your comment to Docket No. APHIS-2015-0053, Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS, Station 3A-03.8, 4700 River Road Unit 118, Riverdale, MD 20737-1238
Supporting documents and any comments we receive on this docket may be viewed at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=APHIS-2015-0053 or in our reading room, which is located in room 1141 of the USDA South Building, 14th Street and Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC. Normal reading room hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. To be sure someone is there to help you, please call (202) 799-7039 before coming.