We are protecting against grapevine cicadas nationwide; farmers can count on us

(Photo: Pixabay)

István Nagy said in the video that they are continuously and with great effort protecting against the serious infection that threatens grapevines, golden yellow disease. In cooperation with the National Council of Mountain Villages, more than 200 inspection groups are searching for signs of the disease in vineyards nationwide. They are also conducting drone reconnaissance.

More than 8,000 hectares of grapes were inspected by the end of the week

The National Food Chain Safety Authority (Nébih) mobile laboratory vehicle can confirm the presence of the pathogen on site in case of suspicion of infection – he explained, indicating that the inspections can continue until the beginning of the vegetation period or until pruning is completed. “The situation is serious” – István Nagy emphasized, pointing out that although the plant disease does not pose a threat to humans, its appearance causes significant damage to grape growers and winemakers. That is why 3.8 billion forints were allocated for protection as part of the action plan quickly adopted after the appearance of the infection. Roughly half of the amount will be spent on post-harvest and spring pesticide treatment. Helicopter spraying is taking place over a large area – he announced. The weather is now helping with protection, as the American grapevine cicada, which spreads the disease, dies at dawn temperatures close to freezing point – he noted. The Minister of Agriculture said that the owners of the infected plantations can apply for state support due to the compulsory measures taken by the authorities. They have also initiated that the victims be entitled to full compensation for their costs, supplemented by the EU fund – he added. “We will not leave the grape growers and winemakers alone!” – the Minister concluded the video message.

AM/MTI