Medfly Found in New Valley Neighborhood

One pregnant Mediterranean fruit fly was reported in a new San Fernando Valley neighborhood Wednesday, prompting agricultural officials to widen aerial spraying in the area.

The Medfly was found in Sun Valley, about one mile outside the boundaries of an already infested zone that includes North Hollywood and parts of Burbank, Studio City and Toluca Lake.

The Sun Valley infestation will be added to the 12-square-mile North Hollywood sector and will be subjected to at least 12 aerial applications of the pesticide malathion as part of an aggressive attack against the crop-destroying pest.

Only residents around the new Sun Valley find will receive notice of the next spray date, which has not yet been set, agricultural officials said.

North Hollywood-area residents must rely on media announcements or call a Medfly hot line.

Assemblyman Richard Katz, (D-Sepulveda) called this policy “totally unacceptable” in a letter sent Wednesday to Los Angeles County Agricultural Commissioner Leon Spaugy. He urged state and local officials to reconsider the decision. Los Angeles County will conduct aerial spraying of malathion tonight. Area: 23 square miles encompassing Rosemead, San Gabriel, South San Gabriel and parts of Alhambra, Arcadia, El Monte, South El Monte, Monterey Park, San Marino and Temple City. Time: 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Precautions: Stay indoors; keep animals indoors; wash animal dishes and toys left outside; cover cars; keep doors and windows closed. Information: Toll-free numbers for the Agricultural Commissioner: (800) 356-2894; (800) 225-1346.