Bats Benefit Ag, But Are in Danger

Washington State’s Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) are asking everyone to keep an eye out for bats, particularly if they are sick or dead as they monitor for white nose disease.

Communications Director for the WSDA Hector Castro said farmers need bats.

“They do provide a real benefit to agriculture in the form of pest control. The value of that benefit has been estimated at being worth several billion dollars to the agriculture industry nationwide.”

The pest control helps prevent damages to crops from unwanted pests.

Castro said there are many things that anyone can do to help make their land friendlier to bats.

“Make things more conducive for bats by reducing lighting if you can, minimizing tree clearing if possible to improve bat habitat.”

White nose disease has been found in one bat near North Bend and can cause the bats to starve to death.

Contact the WDFW if you spot any bats, whether they are live or look sick or dead. Their number is 360-902-2515.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (590) 547-1618, or e-mail krounce@cherrycreekradio.com.