From the Arkansas Department of Agriculture
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Anna Thrash, (501) 529-2689, anna.thrash@agriculture.arkansas.gov

Public Asked To Report Receipt of any Unsolicited Packages of Seeds

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has been made aware that private citizens in several states have received unsolicited packages containing seeds that appear to have originated from China. The types of seeds in the packages are unknown at this time and may be invasive plant species. The packages were sent by mail and may have Chinese writing on them.

Please do not plant these seeds. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture encourages anyone who has received unsolicited seeds in the mail that appears to have Chinese origin to place the unopened seed packet in a sealed bag and contact the Plant Industries Division at 501-225-1598 or:
Paul Shell Paul.shell@agriculture.arkansas.gov
Mark Stoll Mark.stoll@agriculture.arkansas.gov
Scott Bray Scott.bray@agriculture.arkansas.gov

Invasive species wreak havoc on the environment, displace or destroy native plants and insects and severely damage crops. Taking steps to prevent their introduction is the most effective method of reducing both the risk of invasive species infestations and the cost to control and mitigate those infestations.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit www.agriculture.arkansas.gov.

The Joint Health Committee is meeting this morning to discuss COVID19. You can watch the meeting at the link below. On the agenda:

>Discussion of Governor’s Executive Order 20-37 Which Requires Face Coverings During a Public Health Emergency
Concerning Covid-19
- Jose Romero, MD, Interim Secretary, Arkansas Department

>Arkansas Center for Health Improvement (ACHI) Analysis of Covid-19 Data
- Joe Thompson, MD, MPH, Director, Arkansas Center for Health Improvement (ACHI)

>Concerns of the Medical Society and Capacity of Arkansas Hospitals During the Covid-19 Pandemic

>Fighting for Economic Survival During the Covid-19 Pandemic-Hospitality Association
- Montine McNulty, Executive Director, Arkansas Hospitality Association

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