About
The Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) is a serious invasive insect pest that threatens Oregon and the western United States. The largest infestation of Japanese beetles ever found in the state was detected in 2016 in the area of Cedar Mill, Bonny Slope, Oak Hills, and Bethany of Washington County in Oregon. This invasive pest can be destructive in multiple life stages. If the beetle were to become widely established in the state, residents and farmers would see severe damage to over 300 plant species, requiring increased use of pesticides in order to maintain our way of life. Acting on the state policy to eradicate invasive Japanese beetles before breeding populations can establish and with support from the local community and municipalities, the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has embarked on a multi-year eradication project in order to protect Oregon’s agricultural economy and natural ecosystems.
Learn more! Watch the Japanese Beetle in Washington webinar recorded February 13, 2019 for an overview of the project and answers to commonly asked questions. This one hour webinar covers the basics of the beetle, the project, and updates for the third year of treatment.
From the 10-year Strategic Plan by the Oregon Invasive Species Council:
“Non-native plants, animals and microbes arrive in Oregon through many different pathways. Although only a small number may become invasive, quick action is essential to eradicate individuals while the population is small. Unchecked, invasive species can reproduce very quickly, often with devastating effects. Without sufficient resources to rapidly eradicate or contain newly discovered species within the state, the economic and environmental effects of established invasive species can be extreme, long-lasting, and irreversible.”
“Non-native plants, animals and microbes arrive in Oregon through many different pathways. Although only a small number may become invasive, quick action is essential to eradicate individuals while the population is small. Unchecked, invasive species can reproduce very quickly, often with devastating effects. Without sufficient resources to rapidly eradicate or contain newly discovered species within the state, the economic and environmental effects of established invasive species can be extreme, long-lasting, and irreversible.”