San Luis Potosí launches emergency operation against locust plague

The government of San Luis Potosí has launched an emergency operation to combat the presence of the Central American locust (Schistocerca piceifrons) in the state's Media region. Under instructions from Governor Ricardo Gallardo Cardona, the Secretariat of Agricultural Development and Hydraulic Resources (Sedarh) is coordinating with federal authorities, including Senasica, to detect and control the pest.

Specialized technical brigades are conducting nocturnal patrols to locate and contain locust swarms, known as “mangas,” to minimize damage to crops. The operations are concentrated in the municipalities of Lagunillas, Santa Catarina, Rayón, and Tamasopo, specifically targeting areas such as Pinihuan and the La Palma sierra.

Monitoring efforts are focused on protecting essential agricultural products, including corn, squash, and orange. Sedarh officials have requested that local producers and residents report any sightings of the pest to assist the intervention teams.