Washington residents asked to keep watch for emerald ash borer, other invasive insects

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- The state of Washington is asking residents to keep an eye out for invasive insects on trees this summer.

Late summer is usually the peak for invasive wood-boring insects to emerge from trees in their adult stage, the state said, and researchers are working to monitor the situation.

“Researchers and scientists are monitoring for invasive species statewide, but we need the public’s help,” said Stephanie Helms, executive coordinator of the Washington Invasive Species Council. “Public awareness of emerging invasive pest issues can greatly reduce the risk of spread, as human travel plays a major role in the movement of unwanted insects.”

Since 1990, officials said that at least 70 insect species have been detected across Washington and 36% of them were first discovered by the public.

“While you are outside enjoying the summer, take ten minutes to search your yards and neighborhood trees,” Zeima Kassahun of the Washington Department of Natural Resources suggests. “If you see or suspect you see an invasive insect, report your findings, including a picture, to the Washington Invasives mobile app or on the Washington Invasive Species Council website, which routes the report to organizations that can help.”

The state highlighted three insects to watch for: Invasive Longhorned Beetles, Emerald Ash Borers and Spotted Lanternflies.

The Longhorned Beetles have been found in Washington several times before however they have always been stopped before trees could be damaged.

Emerald Ash Borers and Spotted Lanternflies haven't been found in Washington yet, but the borers were found recently in Oregon and Vancouver, British Columbia and the Lanternflies have been seen in California.

Washington residents are being asked to take 10 minutes to check trees on their property showing sudden signs of death and look for sawdust and exit holes or adult beetles.

If a living insect is found, residents are asked to take a photo and send a report to the Washington Invasive Species Council online or through their mobile app.

Residents are also asked to check swimming pools and inside lamps where they can often be found dead.

“Alert residents can help spot infestations when they are easy to handle,” said Helms. “All it takes is ten minutes to check your trees this August, and you could save the state hundreds of thousands, if not millions, in potential invasive species management costs. And yours could be the report that saves your neighborhood’s trees.”