Current status: Open
This consultation is open from November 18, 2025, to January 16, 2026.
About the consultation
Phytophthora abietivora (P. abietivora) is a fungal plant pathogen that causes root rot in fir (Abies spp.) trees. It is a recently documented pathogen that was originally isolated from diseased Christmas trees (fraser fir, Abies fraseri) in 2019 in Connecticut, United States. Since 2024, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed its presence in:
- 4 Christmas tree plantations in Quebec
- 1 provincial park in Ontario, and
- 3 sites in Nova Scotia
The Province of Quebec has also reported detections at over 50 sites across the province.
Given the known presence of P. abietivora in Eastern Canada and the ineffectiveness of possible regulatory actions for this pathogen, the CFIA is proposing to deregulate P. abietivora in Canada. Risk management document RMD-25-03 presents CFIA's regulatory decision.
The CFIA is seeking feedback on the deregulation of P. abietivora and to add P. abietivora to the list of Phytophthora species that are not regulated by Canada.
How to participate
- Read RMD–25–03: Pest risk management document to deregulate Phytophthora abietivora in Canada
- Send an email with your ideas or comments
Who is the focus of this consultation
All groups or individuals that are interested in plant health, including:
- the nursery industry
- the forestry industry
- plant importers, distributors and retailers
- industry associations
- other government departments
- international trading partners
All comments are welcome.
Related information
Contact us
Your opinion counts!
To submit your ideas, questions, or comments, send an email to: cfia.horticulture.acia@inspection.gc.ca.