California residents are being urged to avoid transporting citrus tree material while traveling this summer due to the highest-ever threat of a deadly citrus tree disease called Huanglongbing (HLB). Currently, more than 1,000 square miles in the Southern California communities of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties are in an HLB quarantine area. Transporting a citrus plant can contribute to the spread of the disease, even if the plant is not showing symptoms. Citrus is part of California’s cuisine, landscape and economy. Commercially grown citrus contributes $7 billion in economic value and employs more than 22,000 individuals in California. HLB threatens to erase this tradition from our state’s history and put thousands out of work. Tree owners may choose to share fruit with friends and family within their quarantine area, but all leaves must be removed and fruit washed thoroughly before moving it from the property. Residents should be sure to dry out citrus clippings or double bag them before disposal. This prevents the insects or leaves infected with HLB from spreading to new areas.