by Kim
Photo by Jennifer Forman Orth of Mass Dept of Agricultural Resources
In Northern Worcester (Area within: 190, East Mountain Street, Quinapoxet Lane) clear cutting of hardwoods continues to stem the spread of Asian Longhorn Beetles. The beetles nest and feed on maples, chestnuts, birches, poplars, willows, elms, ashes, and sycamores; larvae eat the heartwood and kill the tree. Beginning August 2008, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) with backing from state, federal and city governments is “authorized to use all lawful means to suppress, control and eradicate” the beetle. What this means is quarantining the wood of trees within a mile and a half from an infested tree, and clear cutting the hardwood trees on private and public lands within short ranges of the infestations and chipping the trees to kill the beetles. Areas of Worcester, Holden, West Boylston, Boylston, and Shrewsbury (2,399 acres, 3.75 sq miles) are under quarantine and this summer and the area and surroundings will be further surveyed for the spreading of infestation.
The DCR has mandated that it is unlawful to move, harvest, transport green lumber, wood debris, nursery stock greater than a half inch in size within the quarantined area. It is important not to obtain firewood from these areas and use only locally obtained, non-infested woods. More information can be obtained by calling: 617-626-1735.
Photo by Jennifer Forman Orth of Mass Dept of Agricultural Resources
Early reporting of infestations will minimize the spread and destruction of trees. The beetle bores a half inch hole to lay eggs and the larvae emerge from dime sized holes in June and remain active until October. The beetle is 3/4 to 1.5 inches long, black and white with blue feet and antennae 1 to 2 times the body length. To report sightings of the beetle, see the Pest Outreach Project site below or call 866-702-9938.
Update: ALB has been found in Boston.
Sources:
link to Massachusetts pests outreach project
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