Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry is looking for the public’s help to find the invasive brown marmorated stink bug, assisting with current research, led by state entomologists, of concern to the state’s agriculture industry. Originally from Asia, the brown marmorated stink bug was accidentally introduced into the mid-Atlantic region of the United States in the late 1990s. It has since spread to 44 states.
The bug is a major agricultural pest in other states and has caused severe economic damage to a number of crops in the mid-Atlantic states. In neighboring New Hampshire, where it has been an acknowledged nuisance pest for three to four years, for the first time control efforts have been recommended on an orchard crop this year. Maine State entomologists are trying to determine how widespread the brown marmorated stink bug is in Maine, and the risk posed to Maine agricultural crops.
Here’s how you can help: 1. Look now for the invasive stink bug (see photo). The best place to look is inside your home as they commonly enter buildings in the autumn seeking a safe place to overwinter. 2. Report sightings and upload a photograph* of this pest through an online report form: www.surveymonkey.com/r/me2017bmsb. A photo is required to verify the identity of the invasive stink bug because there are other bugs that look like it. Please do not send photos of these native insects. (Submitted photo)
