Invasive Species Management Success
As a realtor and trained ecologist in West Newbury, I’m passionate about our community’s ...
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As a realtor and trained ecologist in West Newbury, I’m passionate about our community’s environment, after all, beautiful, healthy landscapes aren’t just charming; they’re key to property values and quality of life. So I was thrilled to hear that we are on the verge of eradicating the notorious Asian longhorned beetle here in Mass!
A Victory for Our Trees: Massachusetts Nears Eradication of Invasive Beetle
Last week, WGBH shared a captivating glimpse into the state’s decades-long effort to rid our forests of this destructive invader. This beetle which is glossy black with white spots and striking banded antennae, bores into maples, willows, elms, and poplars, tunneling through trunks, weakening trees, and posing risks not only to wildlife habitat, the maple and timber industries, but also to people when unhealthy trees fall.
Since its discovery in Worcester County in 2008, DCR teams have surveyed over 8 million trees and removed and ground up at least 30,000 that showed signs of infestation. Today, the results are encouraging: no infested trees have been found statewide since 2021, and the town of Holden has recently been declared free of the beetle. DCR forest specialist Felicia Hubacz even says, “We think we can eradicate this insect.”
Yet the work continues. Inspectors carefully examine tree bark, looking for dimples where beetles lay eggs and dime-sized exit holes from emerged adults—signs that the larvae have tunneled through the tree’s core. A storm could easily topple such weakened trees.
Additionally, a 98-mile “regulation zone” around much of Worcester County restricts movement of wood and tree debris to prevent spread. Tree limbs must be taken to a DCR chipyard in West Boylston.
Experts caution that it is a race against a resilient adversary: “It just takes one gravid female who can lay 90 eggs [to] start it all over again.” They anticipate needing another three to four years of meticulous surveying before they can confidently declare the beetle gone for good.
Other Invasive Species to Watch For in Massachusetts
While the Asian longhorned beetle is the headline threat, homeowners across Massachusetts should also be aware of other invasive plants and insects that quietly damage our yards, forests, and ecosystems:
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Emerald Ash Borer (EAB): A metallic green beetle that targets ash trees. Look for “D-shaped” exit holes in bark and canopy dieback.
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Spotted Lanternfly: A colorful but destructive insect that feeds on grapes, fruit trees, and hardwoods. Egg masses look like smears of putty on trees, outdoor furniture, or even vehicles.
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Gypsy Moth (now “Spongy Moth”): Caterpillars can defoliate entire stands of trees, leaving them stressed and vulnerable.
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Japanese Knotweed: A fast-growing plant often found along riverbanks and roadsides, it spreads aggressively and is difficult to remove once established.
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Oriental Bittersweet: A climbing vine that strangles trees and shrubs, easily identified by its bright red berries encased in yellow husks.
As homeowners, staying alert to these species and reporting sightings to local conservation groups or the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources can make a big difference. Simple steps—like not transporting firewood long distances, removing invasive plants from yards, and planting native alternatives—help protect our environment and property values.
For us here in West Newbury, this isn’t just environmental news—it’s neighborhood news. Healthy tree cover contributes to vibrant streetscapes, enhances curb appeal, and stabilizes real estate values. The thought of invasive pests compromising our forests is sobering; the prospect of conquering them is inspiring.
Let’s applaud the hundreds of dedicated “beetle hunters” — arborists, climbers, forest health specialists — whose work brings us closer to reclaiming our forests—strong, resilient, and ready for generations to enjoy.
As we show homes surrounded by flourishing trees, let’s celebrate this near-historic victory: Massachusetts is almost free of the Asian longhorned beetle — and early detection, persistent effort, and community collaboration got us here. Here’s to healthy trees, beautiful neighborhoods, and a future where this beetle is finally gone.
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