The Asian Longhorn's
beetle (ALB) is an invasive insect that feeds on certain species of hardwood
trees, eventually killing them. The ALB most likely came to the United States
inside wood packing material from Asia. Since it was first discovered in
Brooklyn, New York in 1996, the beetle has caused tens of thousands of trees to
be destroyed in Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York. The control of this insect is critical in
ensuring that it does not spread throughout the region.
At present there is
a significant infestation in the City of Worcester and several its abutting communities. Federal, State and Local authorities have
been working for the last two years to manage and control this population. Additional information on this infestation
can be found at the following web site: http://www.worcesterma.gov/city-manager/asian-longhorned-beetles
As of July 6, 2010
there has been a reported find of Asian Longhorned Beetle in the City of
Boston. Sightings of the Asian Longhorn
Beetle have been confirmed on the grounds of the Faulkner Hospital in Jamaica
Plan. The infested trees have been
removed. The surrounding area was
surveyed and no additional infestation was found. A 1.5-mile radius “Restricted
Area” has been imposed around the site. In the coming week the Federal
Government will be providing additional information regarding this infestation.
It is important that
this pest be reported if sited. If you
think you have found it or something that looks like it please do not hesitate
to contact us at (617) 796-1530 or by email at urbanforestry@newtonma.gov. If at all possible please try to capture the
insect, it does not harm humans or animals.
You can also report
a sighting by going to the following web site: http://massnrc.org/pests/albreport.aspx
For additional
information regarding Asian Longhorned Beetle the following web sites provide
valuable information.
http://www.masstreewardens.org/AsianLongHornedBeetleResource.html
http://massnrc.org/pests/alb/
http://massnrc.org/pests/alb/albmedia.htm
http://www.beetlebusters.info/
Below are several items to help identify Asian Longhorned Beetle.
