According to the RDA, the disease was discovered during a routine inspection period this month, following a report from a local farm. Officials from the Chungju Agricultural Technology Center conducted a preliminary test on May 14, which returned a positive result. Subsequent detailed testing confirmed the presence of fire blight. The affected orchard will be disposed of according to guidelines.
In response, the RDA has activated its emergency response team and is operating a field diagnostic lab to quickly assess suspected samples collected from the outbreak area.
Currently, the North Chungcheong Agricultural Technology Institute and the Chungju Agricultural Technology Center are collaborating on urgent pest control measures. Additionally, they plan to conduct intensive inspections of all orchards within a 2-kilometer radius of the outbreak site until May 19 to prevent further spread.
The RDA emphasizes the importance of preventive measures by farmers to curb the spread of fire blight. They are urging agricultural workers to complete pest prevention training and adhere to safety protocols, as well as to enhance self-monitoring for apple and pear growers.
Furthermore, the RDA warns that farmers who respond passively to suspected symptoms of fire blight may face penalties, including reduced compensation for losses, and encourages immediate reporting to agricultural technology centers upon detection of any symptoms.
Cha Eui-seok, head of the RDA's Disaster Response Division, stated, "Currently, fire blight is not expected to significantly impact the supply of apples and pears. However, since new cases emerge in more than two regions each year, thorough monitoring and pest control must be prioritized in areas without outbreaks."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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