The Butte County Agricultural Commissioner warns residents after the glassy-winged sharpshooter appeared on plant shipments sent to Costco stores in California.
This pest spreads Pierce’s disease, which can cause major crop losses and hurt the state’s agriculture industry.
It also threatens plants in home gardens and landscapes, putting community plant health at risk.
Butte County’s Department of Agriculture has run pest detection and exclusion programs for many years. They emphasize that public help is key to protecting the local environment from invasive species.
If you bought grapevines or citrus plants from any Costco store since April 21, you need to act now.
For grapevines, place two garbage bags over the plants, seal them tightly, and contact Butte County Agriculture to arrange pickup.
For citrus plants, reach out to schedule an inspection.
Do not try to return, transport, or move the plants on your own. Avoid throwing them in the trash or compost bin.
Call the Butte County Agriculture Department at 530-552-4100 or email [email protected] to report pests, book inspections, or get advice on how to prevent the spread.
Are you aware of any other plants in your area that could be at risk? Taking quick steps can help protect California’s crops and your own garden.
