Public urged to help reduce spread of Giant African Snail (updated)

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy is sounding the alarm and calling on all Dominicans to take action against the growing threat of the Giant African Snail, now confirmed in over a dozen communities across the island, including Paix Bouche, Dos Dane, Penville, Anse De Mai, Bense, Glanvilla, Giraudel, Bath Estate, Stockfarm, Bellevue Rawle, Tarish Pit, Fond Cole, Goodwill, River Street Roseau, St. Joseph, Jimmit, and Calibishie.

The Giant African Snail is no ordinary garden nuisance. Known to destroy crops, ravage native plants, and carry dangerous parasites like rat lungworm—which can affect the brain and spinal cord—this species poses a serious risk to both agriculture and public health. First discovered in Dos D’Âne in 2008, the snail has since proven to be one of the most destructive invasive species in the region, capable of damaging up to 500 plant types.

Ministry of Agriculture Officials emphasize that controlling the snail population has to be a collective effort. They pointed to the early success in Dos D’Âne, where residents teamed up with the Ministry to reduce snail numbers through debris burning and the use of snail bait. Similar efforts were seen in Fond Cole last year, where the local Improvement Committee hosted an educational session to raise awareness and mobilize action.

The Ministry is urging residents to take the following steps:

What can you do?

• Keep surroundings clean and free of debris.
• Avoid moving plants or soil from infested areas.
• Inspect vehicles and heavy equipment before relocating.
• Use gloves or tools when collecting snails.

To destroy snails safely:

1. Drown them in water mixed with bleach or salt for 24 hours.
2. Dehydrate them in a sealed garbage bag with salt.
3. Use snail bait containing Metaldehyde—keeping it away from pets and children.

After killing, snails should be burned, buried at least two feet deep, or sealed in heavy-duty garbage bags.

The Ministry also advises against eating the snails due to the risk of disease transmission.

Residents are encouraged to report sightings to their nearest Farmer Service Center or contact the Ministry directly at [email protected] or by calling 266-3828 or 266-3271.

With over $7 million spent between 2008 and 2013 to combat the pest, and continued slug baiting exercises in affected areas, the Ministry remains committed—but it’s clear that the battle cannot be won without the public’s help.