Press Release 03/07/2006
Contact: Public Affairs (404) 656-3689
Commissioner Irvin Assures Gardeners
Little Risk of Formosan Termite Infestation from Mulch
ATLANTA – A recent flurry of e-mails have circulated incorrect information that bags of garden mulch may contain the damaging Formosan termite. As warmer weather approaches and gardening season begins, Commissioner of Agriculture Tommy Irvin wants to assure Georgia’s gardeners that there is little risk in using mulch.
The termite rumor sprang from the fear that hurricane-damaged trees from Louisiana containing Formosan termites are being turned into mulch and sold here in Georgia. The Louisiana Department of Agriculture has taken appropriate measures by establishing a quarantine against the movement of wood and wood products from the affected areas. Further, it is highly unlikely that the Formosan termite, or any termite, could survive the mulching process.
“There is little to no danger of a Formosan termite infestation from using any mulch,” states Commissioner Irvin. “Consumers throughout the state can feel confident in the safety of any mulch they buy this spring.”
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