USDA Set to Unleash Japanese Bugs on Invasive Knotweed
Published Date: 6/22/2026
Notice
Summary
The USDA is giving the green light to release a tiny bug called Aphalara itadori from Japan to help fight invasive knotweed plants spreading across the U.S. This natural pest control method won’t harm the environment and offers a smart, cost-effective way to protect our lands. Gardeners, farmers, and nature lovers can expect this eco-friendly solution to start making a difference soon!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Permits approved to release knotweed psyllid
On June 16, 2026 APHIS authorized permits to release the insect Aphalara itadori sourced from Murakami, Japan into the contiguous United States to help control Japanese, giant, and Bohemian knotweeds. APHIS issued a final supplemental environmental assessment and a Finding of No Significant Impact and determined an environmental impact statement is not required.
Murakami line chosen for better hybrid control
APHIS considered and authorized release of the Murakami-sourced Aphalara itadori after finding it is native to a climate and photoperiod better matched to primary U.S. knotweed regions, is recently collected (field-adapted), and 'performs particularly well on hybrid knotweed (F. x bohemica),' which the notice says is the most abundant knotweed type in the United States. APHIS received the permit request in June 2021 and published a supplemental EA for public comment on February 10, 2023.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-19532, Amendments To Import Requirements for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
The USDA is proposing to shorten the waiting time for importing live birds and bird products from 90 days to 28 days after a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak. This change helps foreign exporters get back to business faster while keeping the U.S. safe from bird flu. If you’re involved in bird imports, get ready to comment by November 23, 2026, and watch for updates that could speed up trade without extra costs.
2025-01836, Horse Protection Amendments; Postponement of Regulations
The USDA is delaying new horse protection rules that were set to start on February 1, 2025, pushing them back 60 days to April 2, 2025. These rules affect horse shows, exhibitions, and sales by requiring trained inspectors to catch soring, a harmful practice. This delay gives everyone more time to get ready without changing any fees or costs.
2026-19237, Bayer U.S.-Crop Science: Availability of a Petition for a Determination of Nonregulated Status and Draft Plant Pest Risk Assessment for Herbicide Resistant MON 96012 Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)
Bayer U.S.-Crop Science wants the green light to grow a new type of cotton that resists several herbicides, making weed control easier for farmers. The USDA is reviewing this request and asking the public to share their thoughts by November 20, 2026. If approved, this could change farming practices and possibly save money on weed management.
2026-18858, Notice of Availability of a Final Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact for the Field Release of Aceria salsolae (Acari: Eriophyidae), a Mite for Biological Control of Russian Thistle (Salsola tragus), in the Contiguous United States
The USDA is giving the green light to release a tiny mite called Aceria salsolae to help control the pesky Russian thistle (tumbleweed) across the central and western U.S. This natural solution aims to reduce the spread of this invasive weed without harming the environment, and permits for releasing the mite will be issued soon. Farmers and landowners can expect fewer tumbleweeds, making land management easier and potentially saving money on weed control.
2026-18021, Notice of Request for Revision to and Extension of Approval of an Information Collection; Irradiation Treatment; Location of Facilities in the Southern United States
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's intention to request a revision to and extension of approval of an information collection associated with the regulations for the location of irradiation treatment facilities in the United States.
2026-18022, Notice of Request for Revision to and Extension of Approval of an Information Collection: Environmental Monitoring
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's intention to request a revision to and extension of approval of an information collection associated with environmental monitoring.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-12428, Proposed Revision of Information Collection; BLS Data Sharing Program
The Bureau of Labor Statistics wants to update its Data Sharing Program to make it easier and clearer for researchers to access important but confidential labor data. This change affects eligible researchers who use this data for studies, and the public can share their thoughts by August 21, 2026. The update aims to reduce paperwork and keep data safe without costing extra time or money.
Next: 2026-12430, Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed eCollection eComments Requested; Reinstatement, With Change, of a Previously Approved Collection for Which Approval has Expired: Census of State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies (CSLLEA)
The Department of Justice wants to bring back a survey that collects info from state and local police agencies, but with some updates to make it easier and more useful. Police departments across the country will be asked to share data again, helping the government understand law enforcement better. Comments on this plan are open until July 22, 2026, and the changes aim to reduce hassle and improve electronic submissions.