A resident of Kamloops, British Columbia, has observed the presence of invasive Japanese beetles outside the designated containment zone in the city’s downtown area. These beetles, scientifically known as Popillia japonica, are known for feeding on grass roots and over 300 plant species, posing a significant threat to commercial crops and natural vegetation.
Last year, the discovery of Japanese beetles in Kamloops marked the first appearance of these pests in British Columbia beyond the Lower Mainland. Consequently, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) established a containment zone surrounding the downtown core to prevent the beetles’ spread and initiated a survey to evaluate the situation.
Despite strict regulations requiring a movement certificate from the CFIA for transporting certain plant materials beyond the containment zone, a resident living outside the regulated area uncovered a swarm of Japanese beetles in her garden. Laine Martin, residing on the west side of the city, found nearly 50 beetles on her rose and raspberry bushes upon returning from vacation.
Expressing concern, Martin emphasized the need for proactive measures to combat the beetle infestation and suggested additional spraying in areas beyond the quarantine zone. While the CFIA acknowledges the presence of Japanese beetles in Kamloops, Jason Crandall, the CFIA’s planning chief for beetle eradication in British Columbia, reassured residents that it is the initial year of the survey and urged them to report any beetle sightings for effective mapping and control.
The CFIA’s response to the invasive Japanese beetles includes targeted pesticide spraying and strict regulation of plant matter movement to curb the beetles’ expansion. Danielle Sparks, the environmental services supervisor for the City of Kamloops, highlighted the importance of preventing the spread of these “hitchhiker species” by managing plant waste on-site through composting.
As efforts continue to address the Japanese beetle issue, collaboration between residents, authorities, and experts remains crucial to mitigate the threat posed by these destructive pests.