Insects of Concern to Brookline

Asian Longhorned Beetle:

ALERT:  The Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) was discovered near the Boston/Brookline boundary on July 3, 2010, and is still a significant concern for Brookline.  The ALB poses a significant threat to many hardwood tree species.  Federal, state and local officials are continuing to investigate.  Officials established a 1.5 mile regulated area around the site where the infested trees were found, which remains in effect in 2011.  No wood and woody debris greater than 1/2” in diameter is allowed to leave the regulated area.  All residents are encouraged to look for the ALB and report any sightings.  Please click here for the full ALB alert and information including details on reporting suspicious tree damage or beetles, disposing of wood or woody debris, a map of the regulated area, and links to updates.

The Asian Longhorned Beetle has previously been discovered in the New York City area, the Chicago area, New Jersey, Ontario, and most recently in 2008 in the Worcester, Massachusetts area.  The beetle infects many deciduous tree species, and damages the trees when larvae bore into the heartwood, eventually leading to the death of the tree.  Infested trees show characteristic egg laying sites on the bark, round exit holes where adults have emerged, and frass or sawdustlike material on the branches or ground below.  Currently, the only way to eradicate the beetles when trees are already infested, is removal of the infested trees.  However, the USDA is undertaking research on controlling or preventing infestations through systemic injection of insecticides.  There is significant concern that the beetle may continue to spread and drastically damage our urban forest, as well as trees throughout New England.  If you find a beetle that may be the Asian Longhorned Beetle or a tree with damage that is consistent with this beetle, please contact the Parks and Open Space Division immediately.  For current updates, photographs and other information on the Asian Longhorned Beetle visit Massachusetts Tree Wardens & Foresters Association, UMass Extension, or U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Asian Longhorned Beetle

Emerald Ash Borer:

The Emerald Ash Borer was first discovered in southeastern Michigan in 2002 and has since spread across much of the midwestern United States.  The beetle has only been observed feeding on ash trees, where larvae tunnel through the wood, leading to death of branches and eventually the entire tree.  Infested trees may exhibit vertical splits in the bark above feeding sites, and D-shaped holes where adults have emerged.  If you find a beetle that may be the Emerald Ash Borer or a tree with damage that is consistent with this beetle, please contact the Parks and Open Space Division immediately.  For current updates, photographs and other information on the Emerald Ash Borer visit UMass Extension or U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Emerald Ash Borer

Present in Brookline Already

Winter Moth:

CLICK HERE for current Winter Moth Information and details on the areas of Brookline where host trees will be targeted for Winter Moth treatments beginning the week of May 14th.

Winter Moth, a defoliating caterpillar, is an insect pest whose population is growing exponentially in the northeast, after its initial identification in 2003 in eastern Massachusetts.  The insect detrimentally affects all deciduous trees and shrubs where it lays its eggs, when caterpillars feed on buds, leaves and flowers.  Adult moths are visible and active during the early winter months.  In accordance with the Park Division's proper integrated pest management approach, either B.t.k. or Conserve is used to control the Winter Moth in a few select areas of Town.  The Town will continue to monitor the insect's population and impact.  For current updates, photographs and other information on the Winter Moth visit UMass Extension.

Winter Moth