Leave Hungry Pests Behind (European Grapevine Moth)
Are you unknowingly harboring tiny hitch-hikers? One of the ways pests, diseases and harmful weeds spread is by hitching a ride with humans, pets and vehicles. An invasive pest is one that is introduced to areas that are not part of its natural range, where it may not have any natural enemies to keep its population in check. Invasive pests can wreak havoc on agricultural crops and natural areas like forests and watersheds, causing economic, environmental and even human health impacts.
Viewer Tip: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) declared April Invasives Awareness Month. There are several pests that are being monitored as “most damaging” in the United States, including the European grapevine moth, which feeds on flowers and fruits of its host plants, mostly grapes. When moth attacks mature grape clusters, it can further damage grapes through a potentially deadly fungus infection, known as bunch rot. The moth is found in California, with the risk of spreading to Oregon and Washington. What can you do to prevent the spread of the European grapevine moth and other invasive pests?
- Inspect. Regularly inspect grapevines for signs of the European grapevine moth and notify your state department of agriculture or USDA if you suspect an infestation. Learn more about the signs and symptoms: www.hungrypests.com/the-threat/emerald-ash-borer.php.
- Know quaratines. If your area is under a European grapevine moth quarantine, cooperate with all instructions and do not remove fresh produce from your property.
- Stay local. Don’t bring or mail fresh fruits, vegetables or plants into your state or another state unless agricultural inspectors have cleared them beforehand.
Learn more about “most damaging” invasive pests and their impacts at www.hungrypests.com.
(Sources: USDA. “European Grapevine Moth,” www.hungrypests.com/the-threat/european-grapevine-moth.php; “What You Can Do,” www.hungrypests.com/what-you-can-do/)
