Notice to Arriving Travelers

Plant Protection & Quarantine

August 2000

We regret that it is necessary to take agricultural items from your baggage. They cannot be brought into the United States because they may carry animal and plant pests and diseases. Restricted items include meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, soil, and products made from animal or plant materials.

Agricultural pests and diseases are a threat to U.S. food crops and livestock. Some of these organisms are highly contagious animal diseases that could cause severe economic damage to the livestock industry and losses in production, which would mean increased costs for meat and dairy products. Other pests can affect property values by damaging lawns, ornamental plants, trees, and even homes.

Confiscated items are carefully destroyed in special facilities of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). For additional traveler information, please check the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's (APHIS) Web site at www.aphis.usda.gov or call 1-866-SAFGUARD. If you have any questions, please write to APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine Port Operations Staff, 4700 River Road, Unit 60, Riverdale, MD, 20737.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA^s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202)ã720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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