APHIS Seeks Comments on Environmental Assessment for the Release of Cheilosia urbana to Biologically Control Invasive Hawkweeds

USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has assessed the potential environmental impacts associated with releasing release of the hoverfly Cheilosia urbana to biologically control invasive hawkweeds (Pilosella species) within the contiguous United States. Based on a thorough analysis, APHIS scientists have determined that the release of the hoverfly will not have a significant impact on the quality of the human environment.

We are making the environmental assessment available to the public for review and comment for a 30 day period that ends on June 27, 2019. APHIS will review and respond to all comments received. If the public does not raise any significant concerns, we will prepare a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) and begin issuing permits to release the hoverfly Cheilosia urbana into the environment.

Review and comment on this this notice in the Federal Register at https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=APHIS-2019-0017-0001