DETROIT (WWJ) - A rare, but potentially harmful pest to Michigan crops was intercepted at a Detroit port after it appeared to hitch a ride on inbound cargo from Europe, officials announced on Thursday.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said eagle-eyed agriculture specialists inspecting an inbound container from Italy discovered the stowaway -- elusive Egyptian locust -- at a local railyard on September 29.
The pest was positively identified by CBP agents and U.S. Department of Agriculture officials. It is classified as an invasive species -- it is not known to live in the United States, though it is commonly found in Europe.
CBP said if the locust managed to gain a foothold in the U.S., it could have disastrous outcomes.
"The locust is a voracious leaf feeder and poses a threat to numerous crops found in Michigan, to include grapevines and various vegetable plants," federal officials said. "This is believed to be only the third time the Port of Detroit has encountered the Egyptian locust."
Officials quarantined the container where the locust was found and subsequently fumigated it to eliminate any other unwanted hitch-hitchers before the cargo was allowed to safely enter U.S. commerce.
CBP said the interception highlights the important part agriculture specialists play in protecting America's food supply.
“Not only do agriculture specialists work hard to intercept invasive insects and plants, but they also play a critical role in stopping the increased threat of biological agents that could seriously harm our citizens and livestock," John Nowak, Acting Port Director for the Port of Detroit, added.
International cargo is routinely examined for potential threats to people, U.S. agriculture, and natural resources, CBP stated.
"On a typical day in Fiscal Year 2022, CBP discovered 240 pests at U.S. ports of entry and 2,677 items for quarantine," officials said.
Travelers are encouraged to learn more about how they can help keep America safe from agriculture threats. Click here for additional information.