Enchantment State News

The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) has issued a warning to residents regarding unsolicited packages containing foreign seeds arriving in New Mexico and Texas. The department emphasizes that these shipments are unauthorized, violating state and federal regulations, and could pose significant risks to agriculture and the environment.

Katie Laney, NMDA Agricultural Production Services Assistant Division Director, stated, "These unauthorized seed shipments violate state and federal law and pose serious risks to our agriculture and environment." She added that the introduction of unknown seeds might lead to invasive species or plant diseases that threaten local ecosystems and farming communities.

The NMDA advises residents who receive such packages not to plant the seeds. If they have already been planted, individuals should remove all seeds before germination or destroy any growing plants. It is also recommended to keep all packaging materials, labels, and seeds intact. Documenting with photographs is suggested if possible.

To report receipt of these seeds, individuals can email ddlabs@nmda.nmsu.edu with photos included or call 575-646-1551. An online form is also available through NMDA’s Unsolicited Seed Package Form.

Mailing instructions for sending the seeds and packaging were not included in the press release.