County appoints pest inspector for UGVPCD to help protect local agriculture

Mesa County’s agricultural heritage depends on healthy orchards, crops and soil. On March 3, the Board of Mesa County Commissioners adopted a resolution appointing Ryan Surad as pest inspector for the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District.

The appointment strengthens the district’s ability to detect and address agricultural pests and plant diseases that threaten crop production and the region’s agricultural economy.

The Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District was established in 1965 under Colorado’s Pest Act to help protect commercial growers and agricultural lands in the Grand Valley. The district works to prevent and manage insects, plant diseases and other threats that can damage orchards and crops.

Surad, who serves as Mesa County’s Noxious Weed and Pest coordinator, will conduct inspections, document pest infestations and work with property owners to address potential risks.

County Natural Resources Director Amber Martinez explained during the public hearing that the position also helps address challenges that arise as residential development occurs near agricultural areas.

New homeowners may not always realize how unmanaged fruit trees or vegetation can affect nearby orchards. The pest inspector will work with property owners to identify concerns, provide guidance and help develop pest management plans.

Education and voluntary compliance are the first steps. If necessary, the district can take additional action authorized under the Pest Act to address risks to surrounding properties.

The district’s boundaries include many of the Grand Valley’s primary fruit-growing areas, including Palisade, East Orchard Mesa and parts of Clifton.

County leaders say restoring the pest inspector role helps ensure the district can respond quickly to emerging threats and continue supporting the farmers and growers who help sustain Mesa County’s agricultural economy.