Shrewsbury Warns Residents To Check For Asian Longhorn Beetle

SHREWSBURY, MA — Shrewsbury officials are warning residents to stay vigilant for an invasive pest that comes around town this time of year — the Asian longhorned beetle.

August is the peak time of year to spot the Asian longhorned beetle as adults emerge from trees. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is declaring August as “Tree Check Month.”

The Asian longhorned beetle is an invasive wood-boring beetle that attacks twelve different types of hardwood trees to include: maple, elm, horse chestnut, birch, and willow. The current cooperative eradication program had previously established a 110 square mile quarantine zone in Worcester County. Shrewsbury is one of six communities in the quarantine zone. The other communities are Worcester, Boylston, West Boylston, Holden and Auburn.

To prevent further spread of the insect, quarantines are established in an effort to avoid transporting infested trees and branches from the area. Early detection of infestations and rapid treatment response are critical in the success of eradicating the beetle.

If you think you’ve seen the beetle or signs of an infestation, resident can report the insect or tree damage by calling the ALB hotline at 866-702-9938. Or report online at AsianLonghornedBeetle.com.