Members of Congress from key agricultural states, led by Congressman Doug LaMalfa (CA-1) have joined together to urge the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to prioritize protections for America’s specialty crops.

In a joint letter addressed to USDA Secretary Brook Rollins, lawmakers highlighted the urgent need to bolster efforts against invasive pests and diseases that threaten the nation’s supply of fresh fruits, vegetables and tree nuts.

The letter underscores recent outbreaks, from destructive fruit flies in California to crop-destroying thrips in Florida, that have cost farmers millions and put entire industries at risk. The members are calling for continued support for critical USDA programs, including the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and Agricultural Research Service (ARS), along with investments in border protection tools like canine teams.

You can read the letter in full here.