Minnesota First Detectors Minnesota Forest Pest First Detector Program

Minnesota First Detectors TCDALBOB BMSBGMEAB New and Emerging Invasive Forest Pests

Minnesota First Detectors Meaning of “Invasive” Species non-native to an environment may be called: Alien, Exotic or Introduced If they also cause harm to the economy, environment and / or human health they are called: Invasive Native species are not called invasive even if they do cause harm Polydrusus spp. Steve Katovich USDA Forest Serivce Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Emerald ash borer Bronze birch borer Steve Katovich USDA Forest Serivce

Minnesota First Detectors Meaning of “New and Emerging” New = not present Asian longhorned beetle Emerging = present but not widely distributed Gypsy moth Established = widely present Dutch elm disease

Minnesota First Detectors What Pests? Covered in 2011 Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Oriental Bittersweet Gypsy Moth Thousand Cankers Disease of Walnut Asian Longhorned Beetle Emerald Ash Borer Firewood

Minnesota First Detectors What Pests? Not Covered in 2011 Mountain Pine Beetle Burr Oak Blight Viburnum Leaf Beetle Sirex Wood Wasp

Minnesota First Detectors First Detectors Cumulative Total:

Minnesota First Detectors Role of the First Detector Pest Reporter “Do I Have?” Checklist First Detector Minnesota Department of Agriculture Evaluate Using Guidelines First Detector Hotline

Minnesota First Detectors Responsibilities of the First Detector Follow the Guidelines for all reports. Triage pest reports and pass to MDA if pest can’t be ruled out. Collect samples or pictures if convenient, else pass on information for MDA to collect sample.

Minnesota First Detectors Handling Samples Collecting Samples Collect it yourself if convenient, else Have reporter send to MDA if possible, or Let MDA know to collect if needed Types Wood or bark Insects Digital pictures Handling Treat as if infested with pest – keep contained Protect from damage, elements

Minnesota First Detectors Handling Samples Wood or bark Handle like it contains pest Secure so an emerging adult could not escape  Double bag w/ heavy plastic bags at minimum  Keep it cool until passed on to MDA Insects Secure in a sealable container that is crush-proof Store in a cool place (freezer) until passed on to MDA Digital pictures Use whenever possible to expedite process Send to as attachment

Minnesota First Detectors Working with the Public If possible, have the citizen review the appropriate checklist First Detectors do not have authority to enter private property without permission Being a First Detector is a volunteer activity

Minnesota First Detectors Site Visits Contact the owner before making a site visit. The homeowner should be present for visit. Get permission to look at the tree and/or pick up the insect. Explain the First Detector Program. Explain what your responsibilities are. Be polite, courteous and respect property. Report back to the homeowner the results of your findings if a decision is not made on site.

Minnesota First Detectors Confidentiality Form