The Sacramento County Agricultural Commissioner, in cooperation with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), is beginning an extensive survey in response to the detection of eight Japanese beetles in the Arden-Arcade area, specifically near the intersection of Watt and Whitney Avenues in Sacramento County. A separate detection of 11 beetles within the city limits of Rancho Cordova by CDFA staff, has triggered an extensive survey as well.
The initial detections in both areas were confirmed on June 4, 2020. The detections were made as part of our coordinated pest prevention system that protects our agriculture and natural resources from non-native invasive species with early detection playing a key role in successfully eradicating an infestation before it can become established.
The extensive survey, also known as a delimitation survey, is triggered after beetles are detected. Traps are placed over a 49-square mile area with a higher density of traps (up to 160 traps per square mile) within a 1-square mile core area around the initial find site. Traps in the core mile will be visually inspected every day for the first week, while all others will be inspected on a weekly basis.
The Japanese beetle traps are green plastic vessels baited with a commercially produced combination of a food lure and male sex attractant. The traps are placed near grass areas and other favored hosts. In addition to trapping, a visual survey for adult beetles on host plants within the areas surrounding the detection sites will occur.
The Japanese beetle is of concern due to the ability of both the adults and grubs (the larval stage) to destroy plants here in California. It is an invasive species in California and is native to Japan, where it is controlled by natural predators and cooler climate. Adults feed on the foliage and fruits of several hundred species of fruit trees, ornamental trees, shrubs, vines and field and vegetable crops. Among the plants most commonly damaged are apple, pears, cherries, corn, grapes, roses and turfgrass. Adults leave behind skeletonized leaves and large, irregular holes. The grubs develop in soil, feeding on the roots of various plants and grasses and often destroying turf in lawns, parks, golf courses and pastures.
Federal, state and county agricultural officials work year-round, 365 days a year, to prevent, deter, detect and eliminate the threat of invasive species and diseases that can damage or destroy our agricultural products and natural environment. The efforts are aimed at keeping California’s natural environment and food supply plentiful, safe and pest-free.
Residents with questions about the project may call the Sacramento County Agricultural Commissioner’s office at (916) 875-6603 or CDFA’s Pest Hotline at (800) 491-1899. Additional information can be found on the CDFA website.
