USDA encourages Michigan to check for invasive Asian longhorned beetle

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — State and federal agriculture specialists are encouraging people to take some time this month and check their property for the invasive Asian longhorned beetle — even though they have yet to be found here in Michigan.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has declared August as Tree Check Month. APHIS is putting a particular emphasis on the Asian longhorned beetle, often referred to as ALB, because it’s the time when the beetles are most active.

Right around this time of year, ALBs emerge from trees to feed on leaves and bark before mating and laying eggs.

The insects are considered invasive across North America and are known to feed on at least 12 different types of hardwood trees, including maples, elms, horse ches