FAC §6031: The necessity of controlling beet leafhopper, the only known vector of the curly top virus, is recognized by the Legislature as being in the public benefit.

The necessity of controlling beet leafhopper, the only known vector of the curly top virus, is recognized by the Legislature as being in the public benefit. The state’s agricultural business economy could be seriously damaged if measures are not continued to prevent the transmittal of curly top virus by this insect. Since the control program primarily is carried on in uncultivated areas, involving both private and public lands, often far removed from the areas receiving benefits, it is necessary for a state agency to take primary responsibility. The Legislature therefore supports a program jointly funded by industry and public funds whereby protection is provided to both home gardens and commercial crops.