Greece agricultural authorities launch olive fruit fly control programs

Agricultural authorities in Greece are launching new cycles of bait spraying to combat the olive fruit fly in Zakynthos and Trifylia.

In Zakynthos, the Directorate of Rural Economy and Veterinary Medicine will begin its second bait spraying program on September 17, 2026. The operations are expected to last eight days and will cover various local communities, including Kato Gerakari, Galaro, Agioi Pantes, and several others. Organic farmers are advised to clearly mark their lands with signs to prevent spraying on biological crops. Additionally, livestock owners and beekeepers must move animals and hives away from the areas, while olive growers are requested to be present to assist the teams.

In Trifylia, Messenia, a new round of ground-based bait spraying will commence on September 15, 2026. This program covers ten local communities, including Farakladas, Armenion, and Spilia. Similar precautions are required: organic producers must delineate their groves, beekeepers must protect their hives, and livestock must be removed from groves during the process. Owners of fenced olive groves are asked to ensure access for the spraying crews, and growers are encouraged to clear obstacles and weeds to ensure safety and efficiency.