Unsolicited seed deliveries have continued across the country forcing all 50 states to issue warnings for residents. According to the Iowa Department of Agriculture, they have received more than 300 reports from Iowans receiving the mystery packages often disguised as jewelry.
The exact origin of the packages remains under investigation, but the Utah Department of Agriculture confirmed last week that a majority of packages are coming from China, in addition to a few from Malaysia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that 14 seed types have been identified as ornamental, fruit and vegetable, herb, and weed varieties. The situation is under current investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the U.S. Postal Service, and State departments of agriculture.
Residents in Canada, Australia, and European Union member nations have also received similar packages, according to the USDA. It is unknown how the recipients are being selected to receive the unsolicited seed packages. The USDA has noted that it is likely tied to recent online purchases.
If you receive a package of seeds in the mail, call the Iowa Department of Agriculture immediately at 515-281-5321. Do not open the package, plant, or throw away the seeds. A mailing system has been implemented for collection of the seeds. A reporting form found here has also been established to gather more information on the developing situation.
The USDA announced last week that the incident is not currently being identified as an act of agro-terrorism. It is a fluid situation currently under investigation by various state and federal agencies.