1. (a) The foundation grove manager shall ensure that trees within the foundation grove and the increase block are tested by a certified laboratory to verify that the trees continue to be free of diseases listed in this subchapter. A list of approved testing procedures and testing schedules will be provided to the foundation manager by the department.

2. (b) The following measures shall be taken to prevent disease contamination from internal or external sources:

   1. (1) if one or more trees within the foundation grove become infected with a disease listed in this subchapter, the affected tree(s) must be removed immediately according to procedures and authority set out in the Texas Agriculture Code, §71.0091, as amended;

   2. (2) tools and equipment used to cut or prune citrus trees shall be used only in the foundation grove, including the increase block, unless:

      1. (A) it is impractical to restrict equipment use only to the foundation grove; and
      2. (B) such equipment has been sterilized with a solution of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and water (1 part bleach to 4 parts water) for at least 3 seconds, followed by rinsing with clean water;
   3. (3) Irrigation of the foundation grove shall be performed in such a manner as to minimize the risk of transmission of diseases through the irrigation system; and
   4. (4) All or part of the foundation grove may be screened to prevent entry of insect vectors when possible.

Source Note:The provisions of this §21.33 adopted to be effective November 10, 1999, 24 TexReg 9828.