The Asian longhorned beetle, also known as starry sky beetle, was first discovered in Worcester, Massachusetts in 2008. At the height of the infestation, which is ongoing, 110 square miles were regulated and under quarantine. Because the only way to effectively eliminate this wood-boring insect is to remove and chip all infested trees, since the discovery, over 35,000 trees have been harvested and destroyed. This presentation will share the story of Worcester’s experience with this beetle and tips for early detection to avoid this scenario in Vermont.

Speakers: Nolan Durkee is a Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) officer with USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). He has worked on multiple facets of the USDA’s Massachusetts ALB Eradication Program, including trapping and surveying. He currently serves as the Outreach Coordinator for the program. Matthew Rich is a Forester with Massachusetts’ Department of Conservation and Recreation. He has deep experience with Asian longhorned beetle and has worked for 13 years in all aspects of the program. 

Zoom https://uvm-edu.zoom.us/j/87253905168?pwd=MXM1TmlHL3ZhaUw5NVFES2xraUdNUT09

Meeting ID: 872 5390 5168

Passcode: 120095