The detection of the European Grapevine Moth and Asian Citrus Psyllid in parts of the state has triggered a federally-funded, massive statewide trapping survey by the California Department of Food and Agriculture to determine just how wide spread these insects are. Both pests are of concern to federal and state government agencies and could have significant impact on local producers’ ability to ship ag products out of the state.

To date, neither pest has been found in San Luis Obispo County. An estimated 2300 insect traps, scheduled to be placed this spring in local vineyards and urban neighborhoods, will help determine if the pests have arrived. Staff from the San Luis Obispo County Department of Agriculture, working collaboratively with staff from the California Department of Food and Agriculture, will be seeking cooperation from commercial growers and the public to gain access to trees and vines to hang insect traps containing pheromones and sticky surfaces that specifically attract and hold these insects.

The European Grapevine Moth, detected in Napa County in 2009 and native to Italy, poses a significant threat to the local grape industry, valued at more than $124 million in 2008. The caterpillar life stage of the moth eats the flowers and grape bunches. The fruit of olive, cherry, other trees and blackberries are also favorite food for the caterpillar...

For the complete article see the 03-12-2010 issue.

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