Re: [CH] Hatch chiles
Brent Thompson (brent@hplbct.hpl.hp.com)
Mon, 10 Sep 2001 09:12:12 -0700
> Too bad California is more interested in illegal fruits and veggies coming
> from the east than they are illegals from the south !!
Given that illegal fruits and veggies from the east (or foreign countries)
can bring diseases and pests that could devastate agricultural crops in
California (e.g. tristeza which unfortunately has finally invaded Citrus in
San Joaquin valley (probably entered from eastern USA), or the infamous
Mediterranean Fruit Fly (probably entered from Mexico or Hawaii), or
Oriental Fruit Fly (probably entered from Hawaii), or Peach Fruit Fly
(probably entered from India?) now in Santa Clara valley, or Glassywing
Sharpshooter that finally made it into California from Florida and
threatens grape/wine industry here, etc.etc.etc.)
Whereas, illegal immigrants provide net contributions to our economy,
So it seems appropriate the gov't _should_ be more interested in illegal
fruits and vegetables. But I think budget sizes if nothing else show the
gov't is not in fact more interested in illegal fruits and vegetables.
And anyway, voluntarily acting in our own interest is best. I certainly
hope no one on our list would hide green chiles coming from New Mexico
instead of declaring them to Ag inspectors, despite whatever (probably low)
risk exists some inspector might confiscate simply to ensure a tasty meal
at home that night.
--- Brent