The Idaho State Department of Agriculture is requesting permission from property owners in select Caldwell and Pocatello neighborhoods to conduct free treatments aimed at eradicating the invasive Japanese beetle.  Japanese beetle is a highly invasive pest that feeds on more than 300 plants including some of Idaho’s top commodities.  ISDA said if left unchecked, the beetle poses a significant threat to the state’s agriculture industry.

 

The state Department of Ag is asking for property owner consent to apply targeted treatments to lawns and turf in affected areas.  Property owners in designated treatment zones have been mailed letters containing details about the program and a consent form.

 

Only properties with signed consent will receive treatment. 

 

Japanese beetles were first detected in Canyon County in 2021, and this marks the third consecutive year of eradication efforts in Caldwell.  Treatment zones are determined by ISDA’s 2024 trap findings in both Caldwell and Pocatello.  To determine if your property is in the treatment zone and submit a consent form, visit the  ISDA's Website. 

 

 The state of Washington is trying to deal with their own Japanese Beetle problem in the central portion of the state.

 

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com 

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