California Medflies the Medfly Problem: Essay

S. federal government: Unhappy with loss of 'face' in dealing with Japan internationally as well as revenue loss due to trade complications regarding agricultural products and other goods

California residents: Damaged by loss of revenue and possible trade war reducing choice

Step 6:Viable solutions from the above evaluations include:

Cold storage alone without the use of pesticides by far seems to be the most viable and natural solution, despite its long-term costs and somewhat inefficient storing methods during off-seasons. To placate growers concerns about costs, one possible measure might be to seek government assistance in building these facilities on the part of the growers, given the vital role the Californian agricultural community plays in maintaining good relations with Japan for continued U.S.-Japanese economic relationships. The increased interest in organic produce amongst American consumers and concern in Europe about 'frankenfoods' such as GMOs (genetically modified organism) might actually mean that a long-term investment in non-chemically based alternatives might pay off in the long run.

Step 7: Describe possible future monitoring

Getting the state and federal government involved through partially financing the initial expenses involved in setting up the cold storage facility would also mean greater monitoring by the government to ensure that proper steps were being taken to preserve safety.All in all, using the pesticide-free cold storage is a win-win solution, even though growers may balk at the expense. It is a long-term solution that will eradicate the medfly and respond to environmental concerns that will only grow over time in Japan, America, and in the larger world. It will not only circumvent a trade war, but may make California produce more desirable in Asia and internationally because of the ability to control pests without chemicals.

Works Cited

Dawson, Anne Dawson, Sarah Hassenpflug, James Sloan, & Izumi Yoshioka. With the assistance of Andrew Procassini. "Combating the Medfly Menace." Monterey, CA: Center for Trade and Commercial Diplomacy, Monterey Institute of International Studies, 1998......