Volunteer EAB/ALB forest pest survey

Arnold Arboretum, September 13, 2011

Be an ace beetle detective. Check your yard, street trees, and neighborhood green spaces for signs of the Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) and the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) beetle, which have destroyed millions of trees throughout the United States. Since their discovery, infestations of ALB have been reported in four states and infestations of EAB in thirteen states. There could be other undetected infestations in the country as well. The USDA and the Arnold Arboretum are partnering to ask New England residents to participate in the Volunteer Forest Pest Survey. We need your help to determine if either of these damaging beetles have arrived in your community.

You can help us stop the spread of these pests-and the devastation they inflict on our forests, parks and neighborhoods-by searching for signs of both beetles. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Review the ALB fact sheet [pdf] and the EAB fact sheet [pdf] to become familiar with the beetles and to recognize signs of damage. Take the fact sheets with you for reference when you search.
2. Locate host trees in your search area. The EAB lives in ash trees and the ALB lives in hardwood trees, particularly maple, birch, horsechestnut, willow, and elm. Carefully examine each tree for signs of infestation. Take notes on the following:
   • Area searched;
   • Types of trees examined;
   • Descriptions of any beetles or signs of infestation detected; it is also helpful to take pictures of the insects or damage to your trees.
3. Report both positive and negative sightings online at BeetleDetectives.com. Negative sightings help confirm that the beetles were not found in your area.

Thanks for your help in our efforts to control the further spread of these destructive insects in our region.