Georgia Plant Protection Division recognized by National Plant Board

Georgia’s Plant Protection Division has won national honors from a nationwide plant protection board.

The National Plant Board (NPB) bestowed an Outstanding Team Performance award for 2024 to the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s (GDA) division.

The division, based in Tifton, Georgia, was recognized for exceptional performance in its efforts to trap, track and eradicate the invasive yellow-legged hornet from Georgia, according to an Aug. 30 news release from Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper.

The NPB presented the award during the organization’s July 24 annual meeting in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

“I am incredibly proud of our Plant Protection Division’s dedication and the progress they have made in our efforts to eradicate the yellow-legged hornet from Georgia,” Harper said in a news release. “Their commitment and expertise are essential to protecting Georgia’s pollinator populations and our state’s agricultural industry from the threat of the Yellow-legged hornet. This award is a testament to their exceptional work, and I thank the National Plant Board for recognizing our team.”

The yellow-legged hornet is an invasive species that represent a significant threat to Georgia’s agriculture industry and the native pollinators that contribute more than $350 million annually to Georgia’s agricultural economy. The PPD’s efforts — including tracking, trapping and targeted eradication measures — have significantly curtailed the spread of the pest and plays a crucial role in protecting the state’s number 1 industry: agriculture. according to the release.

“I am incredibly proud of our Plant Protection Division team; their dedication and hard work have truly been inspiring,” Mike Evans, PPD director, said in the release. “I also want to thank NPB president Mia Kirk for acknowledging our efforts. This award highlights the significant impact of the team’s commitment to eradicating the yellow-legged hornet from Georgia.”

The Madison, Wisconsin-based NPB is an association of state plant regulatory officials that collaborates closely with state and federal partners.