All who are scrupulous in their mitzvah observance can use these etrogim for the mitzva of v'lakachtem lachem, regarding both their status as considered ungrafted and that of Shemittah.
The esrogim of the Israel Etrog Center groves are b'chezkas bilti murkavim, considered ungrafted.
The etrog groves were declared hefker (ownerless) by their owners on the eve of the Shemittah year, as required by halacha. The groves have been under constant supervision by Otzar Bais Din from the eve of the Shemittah year, and throughout the year, regarding everything related to permitted and forbidden work during Shemittah.
The work and harvest were carried out by emissaries of the Bais Din, and there is no fear that the orchards were guarded by their owners or that they were worked illegally during the Shemittah year (shamur v'neevad).
The price to cover expenses and s’char tircha (labor and exertion) was determined by the Bais Din.
Please keep in mind that these etrogim must be treated in accordance with kedushas shvi’is, the sanctity of the seventh year. Please dispose of them in the appropriate manner.
