Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

05/23/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/23/2022 09:06

APHIS’ Plant Protection and Quarantine Updates Policy to Import Earthworms into the United States

Published: May 23, 2022

On July 1, 2022, APHIS' Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) will require all stakeholders who import earthworm species into the United States to request and obtain a PPQ 526 pest permit, and to comply with rearing and shipping requirements.

This new policy applies to all earthworm species and will help to prevent the introduction and spread of potentially harmful pests and plant and animal pathogens transmitted from imported earthworms. PPQ will only issue import permits for earthworms for environmental release in the United States from countries that are free from foot-and- mouth disease.

To apply for a PPQ 526 permit and learn about earthworm rearing and shipping requirements, visit APHIS' Earthworms Import Permit website.

For more information, please send an email to APHIS at [email protected]

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America's food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.