ISDA On The Lookout For Japanese Beetle

It’s not just the state of Washington that is on the lookout for the Japanese beetle.

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture is again conducting a full-court press against the Japanese beetle.  This invasive pest is highly destructive, and feeds on more than 300 different commodities, such as hops, roses, grapes and more.

ISDA is currently conducting a major eradication effort of the beetle in the Caldwell area.  At 2,113, Canyon County has the most farms in the state and ranks No. 5 in total farm revenue among Idaho’s 44 counties.  Canyon County is also also one of the top seed producing areas in the world and the center of Idaho’s $500 million seed industry.  While a Japanese Beetle was found adjacent to farmland in Caldwell, the good news is ISDA’s eradication efforts appear to be working.

ISDA officials suspect the invasive pest hitchhikes to Idaho, mainly on nursery stock brought in by newcomers moving to the state.  Rules are in place to try to prevent that from happening but they still pop up in Idaho from time to time.  Idaho has been trapping for the beetles since 1991. 

The Japanese beetle threatens to take a bite out of that economic impact if it ever gains a significant foothold in Idaho.  According to figures from the University of Idaho, agriculture is a major part of the state’s economy, accounting for one in every nine jobs in the state, 17% of total sales and 13% of total gross state product.

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