The California Gypsy Moth Checklist form is a mandatory document designed to ensure that individuals moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area inspect their outdoor household items. This inspection is crucial to prevent the spread of the gypsy moth, a pest that can harm over 300 species of trees and shrubs. Compliance with this law not only protects your new neighborhood but also helps avoid potential penalties.
To fulfill this requirement, it is essential to complete the checklist accurately. Click the button below to fill out the form and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
The California Gypsy Moth Checklist form is an essential tool for residents moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area. This form outlines the legal requirements that individuals must follow to prevent the spread of this invasive pest, which can cause significant damage to a wide variety of trees and shrubs. Before making a move, individuals must inspect their outdoor household items for any signs of gypsy moth life stages, including egg masses. The checklist provides a straightforward self-inspection process, allowing homeowners to verify that their belongings are free from infestation. If needed, they can also hire a certified applicator to conduct the inspection. The form emphasizes the importance of keeping a completed checklist during the move, as it serves as proof of compliance with federal regulations. Moreover, the checklist is designed to be user-friendly, featuring various categories of outdoor items that require inspection, from recreational equipment to building materials. By adhering to these guidelines, individuals not only protect their new neighborhoods but also contribute to the broader effort of controlling the gypsy moth population in California.
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IT’S THE LAW: BEFORE MOVING, CHECK FOR THE GYPSY MOTH
What Does the Law Require?
If you are moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area, you must inspect your outdoor house- hold items for the gypsy moth and remove all life stages of this destructive insect before you move. You may face penalties if you are required to inspect but fail to do so. Fortunately, this inspection is easy to do, and you will protect your new neighborhood from a voracious leaf eater that can attack over 300 kinds of trees and shrubs.
How Do I Know if I Live in a Gypsy Moth
Quarantine Area?
Visit www.YourMoveGypsyMothFree.com and click on the U.S. map to find out if you live in a quarantine area. If you do, you will need to inspect your household goods for gypsy moth if you’re moving to a non-quarantine area. If you do not live in a quarantine area, this law does not apply to you.
I Live in a Quarantine Area and Am Moving to a Non-Quarantine Area. How Do I Meet This Legal Requirement?
1)Use the self-inspection checklist on the back of this flyer r hire a qualified certified applicator to inspect your outdoor
household articles. If you are moving between April and August, you should complete the inspection on moving
day, if possible. If you cannot complete the inspection on moving day, you must protect the items from the possibility of infestation by sealing them under a tarp, keeping them indoors, or in a closed moving truck.
For self-inspection, follow these steps:
•Carefully inspect all surfaces and crevices of your outdoor household articles such as patio furniture, lawn equipment, toys, grills, trailers, and vehicles for gypsy moth egg masses.
•Remove and destroy any egg masses you find. Scrape them off with a putty knife, stiff brush, or similar hand tool. Dispose of egg masses and other life stages in a container of hot, soapy water, or place them in a plastic bag, seal it, and set it in the sun.
•Check each item off on your checklist as you go, and complete the requested information.
If a qualified, certified applicator performs the inspection, be sure you get a copy of the completed, signed checklist.
2)During your move, keep a copy of the completed checklist in the vehicle moving the goods in case a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or State official requests it at any point during your trip. If you are not driving, provide a copy to the driver. This completed checklist is an official certificate that will satisfy the requirements of all
non-infested States.
3)Once your move is completed, you may want to keep the checklist filed with your moving materials in case you need it in the future.
Where Do I Go For Help?
•See the back of this flyer for photos of all gypsy moth life stages.
•Learn more at www.YourMoveGypsyMothFree.com.
•Contact your State Department of Agriculture or nearest USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) office (www.aphis.usda.gov/planthealth/sphd).
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
This publication supersedes Program Aid No. 2065, “Your Next Move Gypsy Moth-Free,” which was published in October 2010.
Issued October 2013
Revised September 2018
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Program Aid No. 2147
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 0579-0104. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.
OMB APPROVED
0579-0104
EXP. DATE 09/30/2021
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE PLANT PROTECTION AND QUARANTINE
GYPSY MOTH CHECKLIST AND
RECORD OF YOUR SELF-INSPECTION
Important: Make sure this checklist goes with your outdoor household items when you move
1. Originating Property Address
2. Date
3. Recreational or Camping Items
Backpacks
Ice Chests
Tarps
Basketball Backboards
Motorcycles
Tents
Bicycles
Motor Homes
Waders or Boots
Boats
Recreational Vehicles
Other: _____________________
Boat Trailers
Snowmobiles
None
Campers
Sports Equipment
4. Household Items
Air Conditioners
Ladders
Tanks for Propane and Oil
Barrels
Outdoor Doormats
Television Antennas
Cardboard and Wooden Boxes
Outdoor Thermometers
Trash Cans
Clothesline Poles
Refrigerators
Washing Machines
Clothespin Bags
Sheets of Plastic
Water Hoses
Empty Plant Containers
Shutters
Weather Vanes
Firewood*
Storage Sheds
Window Awnings
House Plants (taken outside
Storm/screen Doors and Windows
during the summer)
5. Building Materials
Bricks
Roofing Materials
Welding Equipment
Cement Mixing Tubs
Sewer Pipes
Workbenches
Cinder Blocks
Tools and Toolboxes
Lumber
Water Pipes
6. Yard and Garden Items
Animal Houses (doghouses,
Fertilizer Spreaders
rabbit hutches, etc.)
Barbecue Grills
Flagpoles
Swimming Pools
Birdbaths
Garden Tillers
Tractors and Trailers
Bird Feeders
Garden Tools
Trees, Shrubs, and Plants
Bird Houses
Lawnmowers
Trellises
Bug lights
Mailboxes
Wheelbarrows
Carts
Picnic Tables
Yard Decorations
Cold Frames
Porch or Patio Furniture
Driftwood
Signs and Posts
Fencing
Snow-blowers
7. Children’s Playthings
Other Outside Toys (like trucks or
Bicycles, tricycles
Swing sets
sand molds)
Playhouses
Tire Swings
Sandboxes
Wagons
Sleds, Toboggans
8. Other Items
Cars or Trucks
Farm Implements
Car Parts
Stored Tires (snow tires)
Car Ramps
Gypsy moth egg masses on a lawn mower (USDA/APHIS, Susan Lane)
Gypsy moth egg mass on a padlock (USDA/APHIS, Susan Lane)
Gypsy moth caterpillar (larva)
(Daniel Herms, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org)
Gypsy moth pupae
(Pennsylvania Department of Conservation
and Natural Resources, Forestry Archive,
Bugwood.org)
Female (top) and male adult gypsy moths (USDA APHIS PPQ Archive, USDA/APHIS/PPQ, Bugwood.org)
Inspect anything that was stored outside
By signing my name in block 9 below, I agree that I am legally signing this document and affirming that I have inspected all outdoor household articles, whether included on this checklist or not, for all life stages of gypsy moth in accordance with the procedures on this form, as required by Title 7, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 301.45-4(a).
9.Signature and Date
11.Printed Name
10. Phone Number
12.Company Name (if applicable)
* To avoid spreading other tree pests, move only USDA- or State-certified, treated, and labeled firewood.
PPQ Form 377
SEP 2018
Note: The electronic signature function on this form works only if the user opens the file in Internet Explorer or Adobe Acrobat.
Filling out the California Gypsy Moth Checklist form is an essential step for anyone moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area. By following the steps outlined below, you can ensure that your outdoor household items are inspected properly. This checklist not only helps you comply with the law but also protects your new community from potential infestations.
The California Gypsy Moth Checklist form is designed to help individuals who are moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area. The law requires that you inspect your outdoor household items for gypsy moths before moving. This inspection helps prevent the spread of these destructive pests, which can damage a wide variety of trees and shrubs. By using this checklist, you can ensure that you have completed the necessary inspection and removed any life stages of the gypsy moth, thereby protecting your new community.
To determine if you reside in a gypsy moth quarantine area, visit the website www.YourMoveGypsyMothFree.com . On this site, you will find a U.S. map that indicates which areas are under quarantine. If your location is marked as a quarantine area, you will need to perform an inspection of your household goods before moving to a non-quarantine area. If you do not live in a quarantine area, you are exempt from this requirement.
If you live in a quarantine area and are moving, you can either conduct a self-inspection using the checklist or hire a certified applicator. Here are the steps for self-inspection:
If you choose to hire a qualified applicator, ensure you receive a signed copy of the completed checklist.
Once you have completed the checklist, keep a copy with you during your move. It is important to have this document in case a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or State official requests it. If you are not driving the moving vehicle, provide a copy of the checklist to the driver. This completed checklist serves as an official certificate that confirms you have met the inspection requirements for all non-infested states.
If you need more information or assistance, you can refer to the back of the checklist flyer for images of gypsy moth life stages. Additionally, visit www.YourMoveGypsyMothFree.com for further details. You may also contact your State Department of Agriculture or the nearest USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) office for support. These resources can provide guidance and help ensure that your move is compliant with the necessary regulations.
Not checking the quarantine status: Many people forget to confirm whether they live in a gypsy moth quarantine area. This crucial step ensures compliance with the law.
Skipping the inspection: Some individuals assume that their items are free of gypsy moths without conducting a thorough inspection. This oversight can lead to penalties.
Inadequate inspection: Failing to inspect all surfaces and crevices of outdoor items can result in missed egg masses or larvae. Each item should be carefully checked.
Improper disposal of egg masses: Not disposing of found egg masses correctly can contribute to the spread of gypsy moths. They should be destroyed in hot, soapy water or sealed in a plastic bag.
Not completing the checklist: Forgetting to check off items on the checklist during inspection can lead to confusion later. Each item must be marked as inspected.
Failure to keep a copy of the checklist: Some people neglect to retain a copy of the completed checklist for their records. This document may be requested by officials during the move.
Not sealing items properly: If unable to complete the inspection on moving day, items must be protected from infestation. Leaving them uncovered can result in contamination.
Ignoring the timeline: Conducting inspections outside the recommended timeframe, especially between April and August, can lead to overlooking potential infestations.
Not using the right tools: Using inappropriate tools for scraping off egg masses can make the task more difficult. A putty knife or stiff brush is recommended for effective removal.
Neglecting to inform the driver: If not driving, failing to provide the driver with a copy of the checklist can lead to complications if officials ask for it during transit.
The California Gypsy Moth Checklist form is essential for anyone moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area. However, there are several other forms and documents that are often used in conjunction with this checklist to ensure compliance with regulations and to facilitate a smooth moving process. Below is a list of these documents, each briefly described.
Using these additional forms and documents alongside the California Gypsy Moth Checklist will help ensure compliance with regulations and protect your new neighborhood from potential infestations. Proper preparation is key to a successful move.
The California Gypsy Moth Checklist form shares similarities with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) forms. Both documents aim to prevent the spread of invasive species, specifically by ensuring that individuals moving from quarantine areas take necessary precautions. The PPQ forms require inspections and provide guidelines for identifying and managing pests, much like the checklist that instructs individuals to inspect their outdoor items for gypsy moths before relocating.
Another document that aligns with the California Gypsy Moth Checklist is the Invasive Species Inspection Form. This form is used when transporting items across state lines, where invasive species pose a risk. Similar to the gypsy moth checklist, it emphasizes the importance of inspecting items for pests and provides a structured format to document compliance. Both documents serve as official records that can be requested by authorities during transportation.
The Pest Control Compliance Form is also comparable to the California Gypsy Moth Checklist. This form is utilized by pest control professionals to certify that a property has been treated for specific pests. Both documents require detailed inspections and the removal of pest life stages, ensuring that the environment remains safe from invasive species. They both serve as proof of compliance with state regulations aimed at protecting local ecosystems.
Additionally, the State Department of Agriculture's Quarantine Compliance Certificate resembles the gypsy moth checklist. This certificate is issued after an inspection confirms that items are free from pests before being moved from a quarantined area. Like the checklist, it provides a record of inspection that is necessary for compliance with state laws and helps prevent the spread of invasive species.
The Interstate Movement Permit is another document that shares characteristics with the California Gypsy Moth Checklist. This permit is required for transporting certain plants and materials across state lines to prevent the introduction of pests. Both documents require inspections and serve as a means of ensuring that individuals comply with regulations designed to protect agriculture and natural resources.
The Agricultural Inspection Report is similar as well, as it documents the findings of an inspection conducted by agricultural officials. This report can include information about pest presence and required actions, much like the gypsy moth checklist, which provides a structured approach for individuals to follow during their self-inspection process.
The Plant Health Certificate is another related document. It certifies that plants and plant products are free from specific pests and diseases. Both this certificate and the gypsy moth checklist emphasize the importance of inspections to ensure compliance with agricultural health standards, thus preventing the spread of harmful species.
The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Pesticide Applicator Recordkeeping Form also shares similarities. This form is used to document pesticide applications and ensure compliance with regulations. Both documents require thorough record-keeping and inspections, contributing to the overall goal of protecting the environment from harmful pests and chemicals.
Lastly, the Homeowner’s Pest Management Plan can be likened to the California Gypsy Moth Checklist. This plan guides homeowners in managing pest issues on their properties, including inspections and treatments. Both documents emphasize the importance of proactive measures to prevent pest infestations, thereby safeguarding homes and surrounding areas from invasive species.
When filling out the California Gypsy Moth Checklist form, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure compliance with the law. Below are five things you should and shouldn't do during this process.
Misconception 1: The checklist is only necessary for professional movers.
Many individuals believe that only professional moving companies need to complete the California Gypsy Moth Checklist. In reality, anyone moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area is required to inspect their outdoor household items. This law applies to personal moves as well, ensuring that all residents take part in protecting their new neighborhoods.
Misconception 2: The inspection process is complicated and time-consuming.
Some people fear that inspecting for gypsy moths is a difficult task that will take a significant amount of time. However, the inspection process is straightforward and can often be completed within an hour. By following the self-inspection checklist provided, individuals can efficiently check their belongings and ensure they are free from gypsy moths before moving.
Misconception 3: The checklist is not important and can be ignored.
Ignoring the checklist can lead to serious consequences. If you fail to inspect your items when required, you may face penalties. Moreover, not adhering to the law can put your new community at risk of gypsy moth infestation, which can damage local trees and plants. Taking the time to complete the checklist is a responsible action that contributes to environmental protection.
Misconception 4: Only certain items need to be inspected.
Some individuals think that only large outdoor items, such as furniture or grills, need to be checked. In fact, all outdoor household articles should be inspected, including toys, tools, and recreational equipment. Anything that has been stored outside can potentially harbor gypsy moths, so a thorough inspection of all items is essential.
Key Takeaways for the California Gypsy Moth Checklist Form: