Pine Shoot Beetle (Tomicus piniperda) Survey

Since the introduction and subsequent establishment of Tomicus piniperda, Pine Shoot Beetle, in states immediately north of Kentucky we have become concerned about the possible introduction of these foreign bark beetles. The state of Kentucky has six barge terminals that receive foreign dunnage along with a major international airport that receives cargo from Europe on a daily basis. Scolytids are routinely intercepted at Cincinnati Airport from pallets, dunnage, or crating sometimes on a monthly basis. These are significant interceptions that require treatment of the commodity. Over the past few years, pine shoot beetle has been spreading steadily southward toward Kentucky from Ohio and Indiana. According to NAPIS, it is considered to be established in Hamilton County, Ohio and Switzerland and Dearborn Counties, Indiana, all of which directly border Kentucky. The close proximity of this pest to Kentucky highlights the need for surveys to prevent pine shoot beetle from becoming established in this state. The survey for Tomicus piniperda will be conducted in counties along the Ohio River which are closest to pine shoot beetle infested states. Visual surveys of all Christmas tree farms and nurseries were completed over the entire northern Kentucky area during a two year period with negative findings. Locating traps in pine stands and other vulnerable areas across the river from quarantine areas will enable us to find this pest before it can obtain a foothold. Lindgren funnel traps baited with alpha-pinene lure will be used. Traps will be checked once every two weeks with specimens sent to Mississippi State Entomological Museum for identification. With pine shoot beetle populations so close to Kentucky, this survey is necessary to find any infestations in the state while they are in the early stages of establishment. The Cooperator seeks to conduct a program which is expected to result in: " Safeguarding Kentucky's pine resources from the pine shoot beetle. " Early detection and a rapid response if pine shoot beetle is found in Kentucky. " Prevention of the establishment of pine shoot beetle in the state. " The entry of positive/negative data into an APHIS approved database.