Washington begins annual invasive pest survey

By: Aspen Ford

Outlets: Washington State Standard

Published: June 8, 2026

Words: 312

Last Updated: 3 days, 15 hours ago

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Washington state’s annual search for over 130 invasive insects, weeds and plant pathogens has begun.

Employees with the state Department of Agriculture are traveling across Washington to set traps for species such as spongy moths, Japanese beetles and apple maggots.

Of the agency’s top priorities is the eradication of Japanese beetles in south central Washington. The small green and brown beetles skeletonize leaves and damage flowers and fruit. The species established itself in …

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