Trapping Efforts for Emerald Ash Borer Expand

Emerald Ash Borer is one of the most recent of many invasive pests threatening Virginia's forests. This insect reached Virginia only a few years ago, and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has a major monitoring program to track its movements. Here's the latest update on that from Chris Asaro, Forest Health Specialist with the Virginia Department of Forestry.

"Yes, those large, purple triangle-shaped things that you may have seen hanging in a tree near you are part of the 2011 emerald ash borer survey. Compared to last year, the survey has expanded greatly in terms of number of traps (statewide about 5,500) and area covered. They are still in the process of putting traps up over the next few weeks. Many of you may be seeing these traps for the first time since most of the trapping last year occurred in northern Virginia. This year, a large swath of Virginia from the East to the Southwest will be part of the one trap per 2x2 mile grid area."

"As for who to contact for more information or to report a fallen or damaged trap: this year, all trapping is being handled by a federal contractor called Delta 21 who has been hired by APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service). Delta 21 has a toll-free number to call for more information - 877-207-9406 or 865-482-5000."

Remember: you can help stop or slow the spread of EAB and other forest pests by not moving firewood. Don't bring firewood from home into parks, campgrounds, or forests. Instead, use firewood from local sources only.

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