The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) is warning residents about potentially dangerous foreign seeds arriving in unsolicited packages across New Mexico and Texas. These unauthorized seed shipments violate state and federal law and pose serious risks to our agriculture and environment. Unknown seeds could introduce invasive species or plant diseases that threaten New Mexico's ecosystems and farming communities. (Photo from 2020, courtesy New Mexico Department of Agriculture)
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) is warning residents about potentially dangerous foreign seeds arriving in unsolicited packages across New Mexico and Texas.
Take these immediate steps if you receive unexpected seeds:
· DO NOT plant the seeds.
· If already planted, remove all seeds before germination or destroy any growing plants.
· Keep all packaging materials, labels and seeds.
· Document with photographs if possible.
· Report to NMDA immediately.
“These unauthorized seed shipments violate state and federal law and pose serious risks to our agriculture and environment,” said Katie Laney, NMDA Agricultural Production Services Assistant Division Director. “Unknown seeds could introduce invasive species or plant diseases that threaten New Mexico’s ecosystems and farming communities.”
How to report:
· Email: ddlabs@nmda.nmsu.edu (include photos).
· Phone: 575-646-1551.
· Online: NMDA’s Unsolicited Seed Package Form.
Mail seeds and packaging to:
New Mexico Department of Agriculture | Laboratory Division
Attn: Tim Darden
MSC 3 LD / P.O. Box 30005
973 Agriculture Way
Las Cruces, NM 88003-8005
While receiving these packages does not violate any regulations, your cooperation is crucial in helping authorities track and stop these illegal shipments. For updates and additional information, visit nmdeptag.nmsu.edu.
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