East Providence News
6/1/2010 - INSECT ALERT - Destructive tree pest found in nearby Massachusetts
(UPDATE JUNE 2010) Asian Longhorned Beetle has been found in Boston. The Asian Longhorned Beetle, (ALB), an invasive insect that is native to China and other areas of eastern Asia, and infests many hardwood trees, has been discovered in Worcester, MA. This insect can cause widespread mortality of poplar, willow, elm and maple trees. From January through July 2009 almost 26,000 trees have been removed in parts of Worcester. The beetle is an invasive species in the United States and is a serious threat to many species of deciduous hardwood trees. In addition, nursery stock, logs, green lumber, firewood, stumps, roots, branches and wood debris of a half-inch or more in diameter are subject to infestation. The ALB was first discovered in the United States in 1996 in the Greenpoint Section of Brooklyn, NY and has also been discovered in New Jersey and Chicago. It is believed that the beetle was brought to the US in wooden packing material used in cargo shipments from China. The beetle is large, ranging from 0.75-1.25 inches long with very long black and white antennae. The body is glossy black with irregular white spots. Adults can be seen from late spring to late fall depending on the climate. For more information please visit: RI DEM News Release
If you see this insect on ANY tree please contact East Providence Parks at 435-7756.