The San Luis Obispo County Department of Agriculture / Weights And Measures warns people not to open packages of unsolicited seeds shipped from China.
People in numerous states reported receiving the mystery seeds, and local agriculture officials say homeowners in San Luis Obispo County and Santa Barbara County have also received the shipments.
The SLO County Department of Agriculture says the seed packets are often labeled as jewelry, toys, or other items.
Ag officials say that anyone who receives the shipments should not open, plant, or dispose of the seeds. Instead, contact the Department of Agriculture / Weights and Measures.
“Invasive and exotic species can be damaging to the environment by impacting native ecosystems, damaging crops, and potentially poisoning livestock. Excluding and preventing their introduction is effective in reducing impact in San Luis Obispo County and protecting our robust agricultural economics, “said Martin Settevendemie, San Luis Obispo County Agricultural Commissioner / Sealer.
To contact the SLO County Department of Agriculture, call (805) 781-5910.
To contact the Santa Barbara County Department of Agriculture, call (805) 681-5600.
The United States Department of Agriculture is investigating seed shipments.
The department says it has no evidence that they are not a “brushing scam,” in which people receive unsolicited items from a seller who then posts false customer reviews to increase sales.
The USDA is reportedly collecting seed packets from recipients and testing them.
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