Become a ‘Beetle Buster’ during August

Know your tree’s enemy! August is Tree Check Month, a time to be aware of the invasive Asian Longhorned Beetle. The United States Department of Agriculture is urging the public to look for signs of infestation in August, which is a peak time for emergence of the beetle.  

Take 10 minutes to look for this large black and white beetle anywhere around your yard, on walls, trees, benches, outdoor furniture, cars and in pools. Other signs to watch for on trees, especially maples, include:

• Perfectly round dime size holes,
• Sawdust like material on the ground and the branches,
• Oval depressions on bark where eggs are deposited.

Asian Longhorned Beetles can be unknowingly spread by moving infested firewood to another location. Don’t move firewood to or from your home. Always purchase wood locally.  

If you think  you spotted an Asian Longhorned Beetle or signs of them be sure to take a picture, if possible, with your mobile device and report your findings at www.beetlebusters.info

The Asian Longhorned Beetle has done plenty of damage in neighboring Clermont County, with Monroe, Stonelick, Batavia and Tate townships (61 miles) under a quarantine regulation zone. Checking your trees and never moving firewood can help put a stop to this invasive threat.