CA-CRaFT Growers Application
Advancing and Scaling ACP Management in California Citrus
The Citrus Research Board (CRB), with USDA HLB-MAC support, continues the next phase of the California Citrus Research and Field Trials Program (CA-CRaFT) to manage Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), the primary vector of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), the bacterium responsible for huanglongbing (HLB), a deadly and incurable citrus disease.
CA-CRaFT operates as a coordinated, field-based program designed to deliver practical solutions under real production conditions. Regional differences across California require different strategies, so work is organized into two systems—Desert and Ventura—each built around how ACP behaves in those environments.
Desert Program
Early detection, canine surveys, and coordinated suppression
Desert citrus in Imperial and Coachella Valleys represents a frontline for ACP pressure. ACP detections in desert citrus are consistently concentrated along grove edges, indicating repeated introductions from outside individual blocks, followed by movement of adults into orchards and gradual spread inward.
This program currently operates across approximately 6,500 acres of commercial citrus, with expansion expected to reach around 7,000 acres over the next several years. Scale supports coordinated monitoring and suppression across a large regional footprint while maintaining block-level focus.
Management in this region depends on early detection and rapid response. Regular monitoring is carried out using structured field scouting, tap sampling, and sticky traps across enrolled acreage. Canine detection is integrated into this system to identify very low-level infestations along grove perimeters, often before ACP is detectable through standard methods. These surveys help pinpoint where follow-up inspections and responses should occur. Monitoring results are returned to growers throughout the season, providing a clear picture of ACP activity at both block and regional levels, and allowing growers and PCAs to make management decisions based on these data.
Program mitigations include perimeter-focused treatments or full-block applications depending on block conditions and assigned approach. Coordination across acreage reduces reinfestations and slows spread over time. Annual drone imagery supports evaluation of grove condition and helps interpret irrigation trends.
Ventura Program
Biological control for sustained ACP suppression
Ventura County supports ACP activity for much of the year due to mild climate, frequent flush, and a highly mixed landscape that includes commercial groves, organic production, and unmanaged citrus. Under these conditions, ACP populations persist and rebound quickly, requiring long-term suppression.
CA-CRaFT in Ventura focuses on building a biological control system based on Tamarixia radiata, a natural enemy of ACP. This program is designed to expand across approximately 2,000 acres of commercial citrus, creating a coordinated network of participating groves.
Participating blocks will host field-based Tamarixia release systems that continuously produce and release parasitoids directly into citrus. Ongoing release allows beneficial populations to build within orchards and move into surrounding areas, creating sustained pressure on ACP.
Program staff install and maintain these systems, which consist of curry leaf plants that support ACP reproduction without risk of HLB, allowing continuous Tamarixia production. Fine mesh cage structures retain ACP within the system while allowing Tamarixia to disperse into adjacent trees. Monthly visits ensure consistent production, system maintenance, and monitoring of ACP and parasitism levels. Results are shared with growers throughout the season so progress remains clear and measurable.
This approach supports long-term suppression rather than repeated short-term control. The fit is strong for organic systems, reduced-input programs, and areas where spray options are limited. Ant management is encouraged where needed, as Argentine ants reduce Tamarixia effectiveness. Annual drone imagery will also be used to evaluate canopy condition and support reporting across participating acreage.
Grower participation
Participation connects individual blocks into a coordinated regional effort. Enrolled acreage is monitored under consistent protocols, and growers receive regular updates based on field data collected throughout the season.
Program staff work directly with growers to support implementation and maintain clear communication. Annual reimbursements are available for participating acreage and approved activities following verification of required records. Standard grove operations continue while program activities are integrated into existing management.
Why CA-CRaFT matters
CA-CRaFT now operates at a scale where meaningful impact is achievable. Desert system delivers early detection and coordinated suppression using advanced tools such as canine surveys across thousands of acres. The Ventura system builds a long-term biological control framework across a large and challenging citrus landscape. Combined effort strengthens ACP management, reduces reinfestation pressure, and supports long-term protection of California citrus against HLB.
Ventura Growers – Apply Now
Applications are currently open for Ventura County growers only.
The Ventura program offers a coordinated biological control approach designed to work under real field conditions and provide long-term ACP suppression across a growing network of acreage.
Use the application link below to submit your blocks and participate in the Ventura CA-CRaFT program.
Selected growers will be contacted directly with next steps.