Public Notice: Plum Pox Virus Inspections Underway

From May to September 2025, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) are conducting inspections in select areas of the Niagara Region, including the Town of Grimsby, as part of its ongoing Plum Pox Virus (PPV) Monitoring and Management Program.

Residents may notice CFIA inspectors on or near their properties during this time. Inspectors working in residential areas will carry official CFIA identification and wear orange safety vests for easy identification.

What is Plum Pox Virus?

Plum Pox Virus is a serious plant disease that affects stone fruit trees such as apricot, nectarine, peach, and plum, as well as ornamental shrubs like the purple leaf sand cherry. While PPV poses no risk to human or animal health, it is a significant threat to Canada’s stone fruit industry.

Regulated Area and Measures

A regulated zone has been established in areas where PPV has been detected. To help prevent the spread of the virus, the following measures are in place:

• A ban on propagating (growing or multiplying) plants susceptible to PPV
• Restrictions on moving regulated plant material outside the designated area without written permission from the CFIA

How PPV Spreads

PPV spreads primarily through aphids and the movement or propagation of infected plant material.

Questions or Concerns?

For more information about the program or survey, please contact:

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
📞 905-937-3734
📧 PPV-Sharka@inspection.gc.ca