I won in a bid a nice olive tree grown in Israel last july. Little did I know that I would get a visit from the USDA to seize my olive. Apparently, the olive didn’t have the proper documentation, and them’s are forbidden in the US. I won it in ebay. Didn’t cost me much, but the fact that it was grown there, made it somehow special. I still don’t have it clear how it passed customs. The guy was nice, and explained me the whole thing, which I ignored. Lesson learned. Be careful whoever is not aware of this situation while buying trees from overseas. I’m sure it not only applies to olives.
I am surprised you received a visit. More surprised that the tree arrived. Even more curious as to how the USDA got involved. The surprise is based on my experience trying to navigate Import, Export, Inspection,Transport with USDA and particularly with the new APHIS system which links federal agricultural permits to state inspection activities.
As a Canadian Bonsai artist who has trained in the United States, attended many conventions, purchased and transported trees from various states back to Canada, I can verify that there are many regulations both federal and state that affect the ability to purchase, import and transport trees. Bonsai enthusiasts are best to stick with Licensed growers with current state inspection status and access to phytosanitary certificates. Transport permits, Import and Export permits are all needed under various circumstances. Also, there is often a list of species that are not permitted to cross borders under any circumstances. And then there is the question of collecting native species and transporting them across state or international borders.
If you attend a Bonsai Convention or workshop, make sure that the tree you purchased can be transported back to your home location. Particularly if you are flying. If you put on a convention or workshop and expect registrations from out of state or country be sure the tree suppliers are certified and the local inspectors will issue phytosanitary certificates. Then inform the participants that they are responsible for their own Import or Export Permits if required. Some states even require transport permits to move trees between locations. The state of California has inspection stations at the borders to check on all agricultural products. ( including trees )
PS: I have always been able to acquire trees that are permitted with the proper documentation. It does add considerably to the expense and effort required.
NB: for some it is more convenient to beg forgiveness if caught than to get permission, this i understand and i intend no slight. The paperwork and expense is ridiculous to say the least.
. They harden up real quick.
