Harmful Insect Spotted in Capital Region

According to troyrecord.com, the harmful insect known as the Emerald ash borer has been found in Waterford and Ballston Spa.

The emerald ash borer is a small green beetle that devastates ash trees and threatens the upstate New York economy in the process. The insect feeds on these trees, which are used to make handles for wooden tools and major league baseball bats which are manufactured by Rawlings in Herkimer County.  34 counties have reported infestations, a growing trend since 2014 when it was 22 counties. Acting DEC commissioner Basil Seggos said "DEC continues to survey for emerald ash borer within the state to notify municipalities and private landowners of new detections or expansions of existing infestations." The beetle originated in Asia, and since arriving in the U.S. has devastated neighborhoods and woodlands.

Have you spotted this insect in your area? For more info, check out the Troy Record article here.