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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture

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The International Year of Plant Health

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Plants make up 80% of the food we eat and produce and 98% of the oxygen we breathe, but they're under attack.
The United Nations has declared this the International Year of Plant Health, and we’re spreading the word: protecting plant health is an important part of ending hunger and protecting the environment.

Every year, invasive pests are responsible for the loss of up to 40% of global food crops. Do your part – learn how you can protect plants and the people who need them.

Help Protect Our Plants
Invasive pests hurt ecosystems and agriculture. Here’s what you can do to keep them from spreading.

Move households, not hitchhikers.

Before you move, check your outdoor items for pests. Don't give hungry pests a ride to your new neighborhood.

ITEMS TO INSPECT

Use heat-treated wood.

Hungry pests can hide in untreated firewood. Burn wood in the same area where you buy it or use heat-treated wood so pests can’t hitch a ride.

WHO'S HITCHIKING?

Don't go away with a stowaway.


Before moving in an RV, check your vehicle and outdoor items and remove any pests and egg masses.


WHERE DO I CHECK?

Travel without carry-on baggage.

When you travel abroad, don’t bring fruits, veggies, flowers, or plants where pests can hide. It’s like giving them a U.S. passport.

WHICH PESTS GET PACKED?

Don't mail a menace.



Mailing homegrown plants and produce can give hidden pests a free ride to a new address. It's safer to stick with other kinds of gifts.

KEEP THE POST PEST FREE

Buying online has real-life consequences.


Before you buy plants or seeds online from another country, contact your local USDA office to find out if they’re allowed.

WHAT'S AT RISK?

Celebrate Plant Health All Year Long

We’re Talking #PlantHealth
See what people around the world have to say about the International Year of Plant Health and join the conversation. FOLLOW THE HASHTAG 

Picture This: Plant Health Photo Contest
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations is hosting a photo contest and people all over the world are submitting pictures. Learn more and enter your photos for a chance to win. SCOUT OUT THE COMPETITION 

Help Promote Plant Health
Download sharable materials, find local events and more. GET THE GOODS

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