News Summary
The California Department of Food and Agriculture has imposed a citrus quarantine in San Diego County after Huanglongbing disease was detected in a tree in San Clemente. Covering northern San Diego and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, this quarantine seeks to safeguard the local citrus crop, worth $144 million annually. All movement of citrus stock is restricted within the quarantine area, and residents are urged to monitor their trees for symptoms of infection. The initiative reflects critical efforts to protect the agricultural economy and community health.
San Diego, California – The California Department of Food and Agriculture announced a new citrus quarantine on September 9, 2025, following the detection of the fatal Huanglongbing (HLB) disease in a citrus tree located in a residential area of San Clemente. This quarantine area includes northern San Diego County and parts of the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, marking San Diego’s first multi-jurisdictional quarantine, which stretches from southern Orange County to northern San Diego County. The quarantine aims to protect the region’s significant citrus crop, valued at $144 million annually, from this devastating disease.
The quarantine areas will encompass regions including San Onofre, Agra, and the northwest part of Camp Pendleton. Current quarantines already in place in areas such as Fallbrook, Oceanside, Rancho Bernardo, and Valley Center will continue alongside the new measures. The establishment of this quarantine has become crucial for safeguarding not only the local food supply but also the agricultural economy and environmental sustainability of the region.
Huanglongbing, also known as citrus greening, is caused by a bacterial infection that can lead to misshapen and bitter fruit while ultimately resulting in the demise of infected citrus trees. Though HLB poses no threat to humans or animals, its impact on citrus agriculture is severe, making its control a top priority for agricultural officials. The disease is transmitted primarily by the Asian citrus psyllid, an insect that feeds on citrus trees and carries the bacterium responsible for HLB.
Regulatory Measures
Under the new quarantine regulations, residents and businesses within the stipulated boundaries are prohibited from moving citrus nursery stock, plant parts, and fruit outside the quarantine area, unless they are qualifying agricultural businesses that comply with specific treatment requirements. Nearby citrus trees will receive treatment, and enhanced regulatory survey efforts will be implemented to closely monitor the potential spread of the disease.
Signs of Infection
Residents are advised to be vigilant and look for signs of infected citrus trees, which may display mottled yellow leaves and small, asymmetrical fruit unsuitable for sale or consumption. In the event that personal citrus trees show symptoms of disease, residents should contact pest control services for assistance or to discuss the removal of affected trees to prevent further disease proliferation.
Public Awareness and Reporting
Notifications regarding the quarantine will be disseminated to local citrus growers, plant nurseries, and related businesses to ensure widespread awareness. Residents who suspect their trees may be infected or wish to report complaints or concerns are encouraged to reach out to the state’s toll-free pest hotline at (800) 491-1899 for guidance. Additional information on how to handle citrus tree concerns can be found by contacting the San Diego Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures, or visiting CaliforniaCitrusThreat.org.
Conclusion
The Agricultural Commissioner, Ha Dang, has stressed the importance of community cooperation in efforts to prevent the further spread of Huanglongbing. The initiative reflects vital actions aimed at preserving San Diego County’s agricultural heritage and economic stability while keeping local citrus farmers informed and engaged during these precautionary measures.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Citrus Quarantine Declared in San Clemente
Additional Resources
- County News Center
- Wikipedia: Huanglongbing
- FOX 5 San Diego
- Google Search: Citrus quarantine San Diego
- San Diego Union-Tribune
- Google Scholar: Huanglongbing
- NBC San Diego
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Citrus Diseases
- The Packer
- Google News: California citrus quarantine
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
