OAR 603-054-0085: Pre-Notification of Imported Christmas Trees

(1) Recipients of Christmas trees and cut evergreen branches imported into the state of Oregon from any out-of-state source are required to notify the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Notification shall be via mail, FAX or e-mail to: Nursery Program Supervisor, Plant Division, Oregon Department of Agriculture, 635 Capitol St. NE, Salem, OR 97301; FAX 503-986-4786; quarantine@oda.oregon.gov. (2) For purposes of this section, " Christmas tree” is as defined in ORS 571.505 (2). (3) For the purposes of this section, cut evergreen branches is defined as cut branches of any evergreen tree in the genera of Abies , Pinus or Pseudotsuga . It does not include cut branches in wreaths or in other manufactured products. (4) Notice under (1) of this section in advance of arrival of the shipment is required and must be no later than two business days (Monday through Friday) prior to its arrival. Notification shall include the species of Christmas tree(s) or cut evergreen branches, origin, quantities, source, and recipient's contact information. Copies of regular shipping documents, e.g. load lists, with this information is required. ODA may approve alternative notification systems if such systems allow ODA at least one business day to determine if an inspection is necessary. (5) ODA will contact the recipient of the Christmas tree(s) or cut evergreen branches within one business day of receipt of notification if the Christmas trees or cut evergreen branches must be held for inspection in order to prevent the introduction or spread of dangerous insects or other plant pests as provided in ORS 570.305. Recipients are not obligated to hold the imported Christmas tree(s) or cut evergreen branches for inspection unless contacted directly by an ODA inspector, except that the imported Christmas tree(s) or cut evergreen branches must not be sold or distributed to untraceable buyers, e.g. final consumers, for two business day after notifying ODA. (6) No person shall knowingly offer to sell Christmas tree stock or cut evergreen branches that are infected or infested with dangerous pests as provided in ORS 571.575. Failure to comply with this section may result in the penalties provided in ORS 571.995.