The following information comes from the United States Department of Agriculture about a critical issue facing our community. More information is expected over the next several days and weeks and I will endeavor to provide you with the most up to date information as it is unveiled.
Recently, the Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) was found in the Greendale section of the City of Worcester. This invasive insect is extremely destructive and poses a serious and potentially costly threat to certain species of our Town's hardwood trees. It is important to note, however, that the ALB is a not a threat to humans or pets and does not attack or carry human disease, but if left unchecked, these insects will have a devastating impact on our community's urban forest and precious green resources. Damage caused over time by the ALB's growing, chewing, and traveling inside the tree will eventually kill the host trees. In addition, another hazard is that dead limbs can fall from the trees and could be a safety danger to people underneath.
Mature Asian Longhorned Beetles are very large insects with bodies ranging from 1 to 1 ½ inches in length and antennae that can be as long as 4 inches. They are shiny and black with white spots and antennae that are banded black and white. They have wings and can fly for short distances. Below is a graphic of the Asian Longhorned Beetle.
To prevent further spread of the insect, the Town of West Boylston, in partnership with the City of Worcester, the United States Department of Agriculture and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation has stepped into action to ensure that our forest is not destroyed. Additional measures will be taken in the coming weeks to identify the extent of the infestation and eliminate it. In an effort to keep residents apprised of the situation, the City of Worcester is holding a Public Meeting at Quinsigamond Community College at Hebert Auditorium on August 20th, 2008 at 6:30 p.m.
To this blog entry I have attached a copy of the regulated area map which shows how much of West Boylston is currently within the regulated area. I have also attached a description of the insect with characteristics. If you suspect an Asian Longhorned Beetle on your property, please report this by filling out the form found at http://www.massnrc.org/pests/albreport.aspx. This will give Federal and State officials the information they need to track the beetle's progress and help define the regulated area.
Finally, until further notice, I am temporarily suspending operations of the West Boylston Brush Dump. All brush and trees to be destroyed found in the regulated area must remain within the regulated area. Soon, the location within the regulated area will be announced and a decision to reopen the brush dump will be made at that time. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
I will keep you apprised of any further developments on this insect infestation as I obtain it. Until then, you should know that I will be providing West Boylston Public Access with a presentation to be aired about this insect and the damage it can cause. If you get a chance to view this program, I think you will learn a lot about the problems we are facing.
Leon A. Gaumond Jr.
Town Administrator
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