Using a Rifle, Not a Shotgun, in Medfly War

The reasons of Supervisors Roger R. Stanton and Harriett M. Wieder for rejecting the advice of scientists to double the number of Medfly-trapping locations stretches credibility to the limit.

Consider Stanton’s statement: “I don’t see a logic to increasing the probability . . . of finding a new fly out there.” What does he think the trapping is all about except to eliminate local infestations before it’s too late?

If the Medfly gets established in our metropolitan area, there is no question that our entire state will be ultimately infested. He and Wieder obviously have never lived where the Medfly is endemic and tried to raise any number of food crops.

Let me quote from the November, 1990, issue of California Grower about a little-publicized event. “Are we safe from additional Medfly outbreaks? Absolutely not! From May 14 to May 20, 60 special federal and state inspectors inspected every piece of luggage and all handbags on flights from Central and South America. The inspection produced 1,928 pounds of prohibited fruits and vegetables which contained 61 live fly larvae.”

To this, add the infected fruit the Postal Service is intercepting coming in from the Far East. Unfortunately, only suspicious packages that are leaking fruit juices can be opened for inspection. X-ray or other examination should be carried out on all suspected contraband.

In reviewing Stanton’s and Wieder’s rationale behind their vote, I’m convinced that candidates for public office be given an IQ test as part of the electoral process.

DICKSON SHAFER, Corona del Mar