Unsolicited seed deliveries raise biosecurity concerns in Austin

Officials in Texas are calling on residents of Austin to report any unsolicited seed packages they receive in the mail. They caution that these mysterious deliveries may present significant risks to agriculture, the environment, and public safety.

The Texas Department of Agriculture has reported the collection of over 1,000 unsolicited seed packages across the state in the past year, with incidents noted in Central Texas. Authorities report that the initial confirmed case emerged in February 2025, when a Clute resident received a package from China that included unidentified seeds and an unknown liquid.

The department has successfully gathered a total of 1,101 seed packages from 109 different locations throughout Texas. The agency reports that the initial packages originated from China and were incorrectly labeled as common consumer goods.

Authorities cautioned that the issue extends beyond Texas. Similar seed deliveries have been reported in Ohio, New Mexico, and Alabama, indicating what investigators suspect could be a coordinated and extensive initiative.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller warned that what may appear to be small packages could pose a significant risk if not handled properly.

“At first glance, this may appear to be a minor issue, but it is, in fact, a significant matter,” Miller stated. “The potential arrival of an invasive species through these seeds presents significant threats to Texas families and the agricultural sector.”

The department has reported the identification of certain tested seeds as invasive plant species. Meanwhile, others remain unidentified and may harbor insects, bacteria, or plant diseases. Officials said it was possible for a single invasive pest to rapidly proliferate, posing a threat to crops, natural ecosystems, and urban green spaces, particularly in the Austin area.

Officials at both the state and federal levels are regarding the incidents as a possible biosecurity issue. The TDA warned that the continuous shipments could pose a persistent risk to the nation's agricultural framework if not dealt with swiftly.

“Regardless of whether the case is an ongoing scam or something more nefarious, our commitment to safeguarding Texans remains unwavering,” Miller stated. “The arrival of unsolicited seeds in our nation poses a significant threat to American agriculture, the environment, and public safety.”

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) collaborates with federal partners to collect, test, and safely dispose of foreign seeds. Authorities emphasized that residents must refrain from opening the packages, planting the seeds, or discarding them, as improper disposal could lead to germination or further spread of the seeds.

Austin-area residents receiving unsolicited packages are advised to leave them unopened in their original packaging and reach out to the Texas Department of Agriculture for guidance on proper handling.

Individuals can submit reports by dialing 1-(800) TELL-TDA.

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