Watch what you import

Watch what you import

David Sparks Ph.D.
David Sparks Ph.D.
Travelers certainly should not try to bring back materials or goods that are prohibited from entry to the US, and should not ignore agriculture inspection procedures at border entry stations. For the sake of Oregon's ag and natural resources, enjoy the experience overseas, but leave it all there.

Veterinarian Dr. Brad LeaMaster is focused on keeping pathogens out of the country: "Foreign animal diseases and high-risk diseases are out there and it's a constant risk that's always there. The threat never goes away. As soon as we lower our guard or get sloppy, that's the opportunity or the chance for the disease to get there."

Travelers certainly should not try to bring back materials or goods that are prohibited from entry to the US, and should not ignore agriculture inspection procedures at border entry stations. For the sake of Oregon's ag and natural resources, enjoy the experience overseas, but leave it all there. In Salem

Helmuth Rogg is Director of Plant Protection and Conservation programs for the Oregon Department of Agriculture. He says bad bugs can hop a ride back to the state in your suitcase or clothing.

Rogg has a word of caution for international travelers who want to bring back something to Oregon from their overseas trip:

"When you bring live plants or cut flowers or you bring animals, obviously, there's always a risk associated that you bring other hitchhikers that could then establish here in Oregon spread from Oregon to other states and the country and cause devastation to our agriculture and our natural resources."

Rogg says the world has gotten smaller and more people are able to travel to other countries and back. That's a concern in the battle to keep out invasive species:

"The more people move, there is a higher risk of hitchhikers in your luggage or you bring in intentionally. You don't think much about it but you intentionally bring stuff in here that has a problem, a pest."

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