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Posted: Thursday, 05 July 2012 8:49AM

Invasive Pests Can Hitchhike With Local Travelers



BELLINGHAM, WA -- As Northwest Washington continues its battle against aquatic invasive species, federal officials are trying to prevent the spread of several other invasive pests this summer.

U-S Department of Agriculture Spokesperson Rebecca Blue says Washington travelers need to be on the lookout for Asian Longhorn beetles, European Grapevine moths, and European Gypsy moths.

She says these damaging pests can hitchhike from state to state hidden in fruit, vegetables, plants, or camping supplies.

Blue says no traveler wants to be responsible for introducing a destructive foreign species into a new area.

She adds that in Washington, the European Grapevine moth could have a big impact on the state's $114 million dollar grape industry.

For a state-by-state list of the USDA's top invasive pest threats, go to www.hungrypests.com.

Filed Under :  
Topics : Environment
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Locations : Washington
People : Rebecca Blue