July: Glassy Winged Sharpshooter
On June 5, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) issued a notification that “invasive glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS) insects were found on shipments of grapevines sold at select Costco locations in Northern California between April 21 and May 21.” The plants were sold at Costco stores in 24 different counties, including Butte, Yuba, and Shasta. The GWSS presents a danger to crops and ornamentals because it is a vector for “Pierce’s disease, a fatal grapevine disease that threatens California vineyards. The pest can also damage citrus trees, landscape plants, and other crops.”
The CDFA notes that “early detection and rapid response are critical to preventing the pest from spreading further.” Reaching Costco members who purchased potentially infected plants so they can properly dispose of them (see below) is of utmost importance. Please spread the word! Visit the UCANR Pest Note for detailed information and history of the Glassy Winged Sharpshooter.
What To Do If You Purchased a Plant
If you purchased a grapevine from Costco in an affected county between April 21 and May 21, take the following steps:
Isolate the Plant
- Keep the plant in its original pot or container and away from other plants.
- Do not put the plant in the ground if you have not already done so.
- If possible, place the plant inside two trash bags, one inside the other, and seal them closed.
- Do not return, transport or relocate the plant.
- Do not place the plant in the trash or compost bin.
Contact Your Local County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office Right Away
Find your County Agricultural Commissioner.
- An agricultural inspector will come to examine the plant and nearby host plants.
- If inspectors find GWSS on the grapevine, they will safely remove and dispose of the plant.
- GWSS monitoring traps may also be placed on or near the property.