The damage caused by invasive pests, known as "hungry pests," can be costly.

"Invasive insects and plant diseases cost the US an estimated $40 billion each year in damages to trees, plants, crops, and related eradication and control efforts," said Samantha Simon with USDA's Plant Protection and Quarantine.

"Ppeople play an important role in helping to protect our plants from invasive pests and diseases by recognizing the signs reporting hungry pests as well as preventing their spread," Simon noted.

So, how can you and I help?

"If you think you have a hungry pest or an unusual insect that could be invasive in your area report it to the USDA state plant health director in your state."

Click Here to learn more, or to help identify a hungry pest.

"The website includes photos of invasive plant pests and diseases." Simon said. "It [also] has an online tracker of hungry pests by state It also provides information about what to look for and how to prevent the spread of hungry pests and also how to report them."

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