Jonah Ulmer, a federal government expert on tiny invasive pests that can devastate crops, was fired as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce the federal workforce. Along with 145 others in plant protection, including entomologists and soil conservationists, Ulmer’s termination has raised concerns about the impact on the USDA’s ability to inspect and quarantine dangerous pests on imported goods at U.S. ports of entry. The loss of expertise and staff could lead to harmful pests and diseases slipping into the U.S., affecting American farmers and consumers. Ulmer’s expertise on thrips and psyllids, insects that can cause billions of dollars in economic damage, is particularly crucial. Other experts in invasive pests, such as slugs, have also been fired, posing a threat to U.S. crops and potentially increasing costs for importers and consumers. The USDA inspections are highly time-sensitive, and the delays caused by staff cuts may result in additional fees for storage, shipping, and refrigeration. While Ulmer hopes to be reinstated, the uncertainty surrounding his job status has left him eager to return to his work identifying and quarantining dangerous pests to protect the agricultural industry from significant damage.
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