California declares victory over Medflies

SACRAMENTO, Aug. 15 (UPI) -- The Mediterranean fruit fly has been eradicated from California, agricultural officials said.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture said Thursday quarantines in Santa Clara and Solano counties have been lifted and the Los Angeles County quarantine is no longer being enforced.

"The Medfly is a pest that poses a serious threat to California agriculture," said CDFA Secretary A.G. Kawamura. "I would like to thank the residents and growers who helped us eradicate these infestations by cooperating with the three quarantines."

The fruit flies were eradicated by releasing sterile male Medflies in the area.

Mediterranean fruit flies can infest over 260 types of fruits and vegetables, threatening crops, exports and landscaping, the CDFA said.