What should be done with unprocessed plants moving from U.S. affiliated islands to domestic states?

The recommended action when unprocessed plants are moving from U.S. affiliated islands to domestic states is to send them to the state's plant regulatory agency. This process ensures that the plants undergo the necessary inspection and compliance checks that are critical for maintaining plant health and preventing the introduction of pests and diseases into new areas.

Each state has its own regulations and protocols for the importation of plants, which are put in place to protect local agriculture and natural ecosystems. By forwarding these plants to the appropriate regulatory agency, the state can assess risks associated with the plants, ensure they meet necessary health standards, and prevent potential phytosanitary issues.

This process is crucial in the broader context of phytosanitary measures, which aim to control the movement of plant material that could harbor pests or diseases detrimental to agriculture and the environment. Ensuring that plants are properly inspected and certified aligns with practices that support the protection of both native and agricultural plants in the receiving domestic states, maintaining biosecurity and promoting agricultural health.