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ASIAN LONGHORNED BEETLE RESPONSE GUIDELINES 

 

 

 Photograph by Alan Sawyer 

Prepared by: 

Robyn Rose, Ph.D. 

USDA APHIS PPQ National Policy Manager 

Asian Longhorned Beetle Eradication Program 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

Considerable contributions, assistance, guidance, and review by: 

Josie Ryan, National Operations Manager 

David Lance, Assistant Director of Otis Laboratory 

Phil Baldauf, Ohio Project Leader 

Joe Gittleman, New York Project Leader 

Clint McFarland, Massachusetts Project Leader 

John Burch, Ohio State Plant Health Director 

Patricia Douglass, Retired Massachusetts State Plant Health Director 

Diana Hoffman, New York State Plant Health Director 

Rhonda Santos, Public Affairs Specialist 

September 2014 
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BACKGROUND 

I. Introduction 

The information contained in this document is intended for use when an outbreak of 

Asian longhorned beetle (ALB), Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky), is detected. 

This action plan is to be used for guidance in implementing eradication procedures and in 

preventing the spread of the insect to other locations. This document provides the 

technical and general information needed to implement any phase of an ALB eradication 

program; however, the specific emergency program is to be based on local conditions and 

scientific information available at the time the outbreak is detected. 

This is a guidance document that should be considered on a case-by-case basis and is not 

intended to be all-inclusive. The information in this document was developed from 

consultation with ALB program staff, Technical Working Groups and scientific literature 

that is synthesized into a specialized paper intended to assist further work. 

This document will be updated as new information becomes available. Specific 

emergency program’s response should be based on information available at the time of 

the incident. 

II. Pest Status 

Invasive species such as ALB have cost the United States millions of dollars and wreak 

havoc on the environment. If ALB were to become established in the United States, it 

could have a severe impact on the timber, maple syrup, tree nursery, firewood, and 

tourism industries as well as the environment. 

ALB feeds on a wide variety of tree species. There are 13 genera of host trees that are 

regulated for ALB: Acer spp. (maple and box elder), Aesculus spp. (horse chestnut and 

buckeye), Albizia spp. (mimosa), Betula spp. (birch), Celtis spp. (hackberry), Cercidiphyllum 

spp. (katsura tree), Fraxinus spp. (ash), Koelreuteria spp. (golden rain tree), Platanus spp. 

(sycamore and London planetree), Populus spp. (poplar), Salix spp. (willow), Sorbus spp. 

(mountain ash), and Ulmus spp. (elm) (USDA–APHIS, 2008a). Acer is the most commonly 

infested tree genus by ALB in the United States, followed by Ulmus and Salix (Haack et al., 

2010). These trees are considered hosts because ALB can derive its food supply and 

complete its life cycle in them. A host tree is still considered a host even if it is not infested. 

III. Contacts 

When an emergency pest response program for ALB has been implemented, its success 

depends on the cooperation, assistance, and understanding of the involved stakeholder 

groups. The appropriate State and Federal liaison and information officers should 

distribute news of program progress and developments to interested groups, including the 

following: 
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 Other Federal, State, county, and municipal agricultural and regulatory 

officials; 

 Grower groups (such as specific commodity or industry groups); 

 Commercial interests; 

 Academic entities with agricultural interests; 

 Land-grant universities and Cooperative Extension Services; 

 State and local law enforcement officials; 

 Tribal governments; 

 Agricultural interests in other countries (via APHIS Trade Directors); 

 National, State and local news media; and 

 The public. 

IV. Initiating an Emergency Response Program 

An emergency pest response program or incident response consists of detection and 

delimitation, and may be followed by strategies in quarantine, containment, eradication 

and control. APHIS’ Asian Longhorned Beetle Eradication Program National Field 

Operations and National Policy Managers will work with the State Plant Health Director 

(SPHD) to evaluate an infestation. After assessing the scale and risk of the infestation and 

consulting with experts, program, and regulatory personnel, the Field Operations and 

Policy Managers will submit recommendations to PPQ management for a course of 

action. 

The following needs to be addressed when initiating a pest response program: 

1. A new or reintroduced infestation of ALB is discovered and reported. 

2. The pest is examined and pre-identified by regional or area identifier. 

3. Pest identity is confirmed by national taxonomic authority recognized by 

USDA–APHIS–PPQ–National Identification System. 

4. State Departments of Agriculture are consulted. 

5. Existing Response Guidelines are consulted or a new Technical Working 

Group (TWG) is assembled to evaluate the infestation. 

6. Depending on the urgency, official notifications are made to the National 

Plant Board, cooperators, and trading partners. 

7. An initial survey is conducted at the site of detection. 

8. An Incident Management Team may be sent to evaluate the site. When 

feasible, it is preferred that the initial response should include a team from 

an established ALB field office. If the incident occurs in a state with an 

ALB program office, staff from that office should lead the Incident 

Assessment Team. 

9. Recommended strategies are made, based on the assessment of surveys, 

other data, and recommendation of the Incident Management Team. 

10. The PPQ Deputy Administrator authorizes a response. 

11. An appropriate control strategy is selected. 

12. If needed, an Incident Command System can be implemented. 
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13. Appropriate state government authorities cooperate with parallel intrastate 

actions. 

14. Trace-back and trace-forward investigations are conducted. 

15. Field identification procedures are standardized. 

16. Data collection and reporting is standardized. 

17. Regulatory actions are taken. 

18. Environmental assessments are completed as necessary. 

19. Environmental monitoring is conducted, if appropriate. 

20. Pest monitoring surveys are conducted to evaluate program success. 

21. Programs are designed for eradication. 

PEST INFORMATION 

I. Economic Importance 

The natural spread of ALB is relatively slow when compared to some other invasive 

species such as the emerald ash borer. Left unchecked it will continue to destroy host 

trees. Human-assisted movement of ALB through infested material can greatly enhance 

the rate of spread. Threatened resources include: tree cover, fuel, fiber, wood for lumber, 

cooling shade and wind breaks for homes and businesses, landscaping, fish and wildlife 

habitat, watershed conservation, esthetics, maple syrup production, aesthetics and other 

industries dependent on this tree resource. ALB poses a serious threat to forest resources 

nationwide; roughly 30 percent of U.S. trees are hosts. The potential value loss of 

forested areas from ALB has been determined by the council of Tree and Landscape 

appraisers as greater than $2 trillion 

(http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/disturbance/invasive_species/alb/localresources/docs/ALB_potential.pdf). 

In the eastern United States alone, four million jobs depend on forests that are vulnerable 

to the ALB. With this pest eradicated, billions of dollars in economic losses to industries 

such as timber, recreation, and tourism will be avoided. For example, if the ALB spread 

to all urban areas of the lower 48 States, the estimated national impact would be a loss of 

35 percent of canopy cover, and a 30 percent tree mortality (i.e., more than one billion 

trees), and a combined total value loss of more than $669 billion (Nowak et al 2001, 

http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/disturbance/invasive_species/alb/localresources/docs/ALB_potential.pdf) . 

II. Damage to Hosts 

After ALB eggs hatch, small white larvae bore through the tree’s vascular layer beneath 

the bark. As they mature, larvae feed deeper into the tree's sapwood and heartwood 

forming tunnels (galleries) in the trunk and branches. This damage interferes with 

nutrient flow and weakens the structural integrity of the tree. Infested trees are also prone 

to secondary attack by other insects, fungi, and diseases because of ALB damage. Over 

the course of a year or two, a larva will mature and then pupate. From the pupa, an adult 

beetle emerges chewing its way out of the infested host material. This forms distinctive 

round holes approximately three-eighths of an inch in diameter. Sawdust debris or insect 
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waste/excrement (or frass) is commonly found at the base of infested trees. Heavy sap 

flow may occur from the resulting trunk and branch wounds. The tree will eventually die 

if the infestation is severe enough. 

III. Distribution and Detections 

The Asian longhorned beetle is native to China and Korea (Peng and Liu 1992). ALB is 

believed to have been introduced into the United States from wood pallets and other 

wood packing material carried in cargo shipments from Asia. Eradication programs are 

currently being conducted in New York, Massachusetts, and Ohio. Eradication of ALB 

has been achieved in Chicago, IL; Islip, Manhattan, and Staten Island, NY; Hudson, 

Middlesex and Union Counties, NJ; and Boston, MA.

ALB was first discovered in the United States in August 1996 in the Greenpoint 

neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York from a citizen referral. Within weeks, another 

infestation was found on Long Island in Amityville, New York, from a report by a 

landscaper. ALB was subsequently found in Queens and Manhattan, and additional 

communities in Nassau and Suffolk Counties, New York. 

In July 1998, a new infestation was discovered in the Ravenswood area of Chicago, 

Illinois. In October 2002, ALB was discovered in Jersey City, New Jersey, and in August 

2004, it was discovered in the Borough of Carteret of Woodbridge Township, and in the 

nearby cities of Rahway and Linden. It was subsequently found in 2007 in Richmond 

County on Staten Island, New York, across the Arthur Kill Bridge from the New Jersey 

infestation sites. 

In August 2008, ALB was discovered in Worcester, Massachusetts. This infestation includes 

the city of Worcester and the towns of West Boylston, Boylston, and Shrewsbury, as well as 

portions of the towns of Holden and Auburn. In July 2010, an infestation was reported in the 

Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts; only six infested trees were detected 

and it was declared eradicated in May 2014. 

In June 2011, ALB was confirmed in Clermont County, Ohio. Delimitation surveys are being 

conducted in and around the regulated areas within Clermont County to determine the size of 

the infestation, and to identify infested host trees. 

In July 2013, a homeowner’s cellphone video led to detection of ALB in the Town of 

Babylon on Long Island, NY, north of the previously established Amityville quarantine. 

IV. Risk of Establishment 

All states within the U.S. are at risk for the establishment of ALB by human assisted 

movement of infested wood and wood products, as well as natural dispersal once 

introduced 

(http://www.fs.fed.us/foresthealth/technology/invasives_anoplophoraglabripennis_riskma

ps.shtml; http://www.hungrypests.com/the-spread/ByPest.php?pestabbr=alb). The 

potential damage is significant if ALB moves into forest stands. In the U.S. 28.5% (71 
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billion trees) of the trees on timberland, land suitable or managed for timber, are at risk to 

mortality due to the ALB. 

V. Life Cycle 

ALB can overwinter in the tree or cut wood product as an egg, a larva, or as a pupa. 

Individual eggs are deposited under the bark in pits chewed by adult females. The first 

three larval instars, or development phases, typically feed at the interface of the phloem, 

nutrient conducting outer tissue, and xylem, water conducting deep tissue, whereas older 

instars tend to tunnel more deeply into the xylem. In the northern United States, adult 

emergence usually occurs between June and October, with peak populations varying 

based upon climate. In warmer areas, development is completed in a year, but in colder 

portions of the U.S. a portion of adult ALB will not emerge until the second summer after 

oviposition. Adult beetles are long-lived and likely often survive several weeks in the 

field; under laboratory conditions, individual adults have lived over a year. Females lay 

eggs, and larvae thrive, on healthy or stressed host trees of all ages as well as on recently 

cut logs. Adults will often lay eggs repeatedly, year after year, on the same tree, causing 

die-back of branches and eventual tree death. Individual females may also move to 

adjacent trees or fly to distant trees to deposit some or most of their eggs. The tendency 

of the beetles to disperse appears to increase with crowding. 

VI. Identification 

Egg Stage: The off-white, oblong eggs are 5–7 mm in length. Both ends are slightly 

concave (Peng and Liu 1992). 

 

Larval Stage: Full grown larvae will reach 35-55mm in length. The prothorax has a 

brown mark. The front of the mark does not have a brown margin (Peng 

and Liu 1992). 

 

 Pupal Stage: The off-white pupae are 30–33 mm in length with a width of 

 11 mm. The eighth segment of the abdomen has a protruding 

 structure (Peng and Liu 1992). 

 

Adult Stage: Adults are 20–35 mm in body length and 7–12 mm in width. They are jet 

black with white markings. The antennae have 11 segments. The base of 

the antenna is whitish with a blue-black color. The antennae of the males 

are approximately 2.5 times their body length; the antennae of the females 

are approximately 1.3 times the body length. The bases of the elytra, or 

hardened wings, do not have a granular structure (a distinguishing feature 

of a closely related species, Anoplophora chinensis, or the citrus 

longhorned beetle). Each elytron typically has about 20 white dots (Peng 

and Liu 1992), but this trait is variable. The elytra of some individuals 

have numerous small speckles whereas others are almost all black. The 

white spot are actually clumps of short hairs (setae). 
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SURVEY PROCEDURES 

I. Initial Response 

The immediate response to a new detection is to conduct an initial survey in order to 

determine the scope of the infestation and for planning the type of response, resources 

and possible quarantine enactment. A limited number of infested trees or localized 

infestation may not require the extensive response needed for the discovery of a large or 

well established infestation (i.e., numerous infested trees exhibiting sequential years of 

infestation and clearly spread or spreading over an extended area). When available, 

experienced ALB managers and staff should be utilized in response to new infestations 

for the initial analysis and to advise local responders regarding anticipated movement, 

host tree and pest density, regulated parties and/or industries, and if needed cultural 

practices relating to forest product utilization. 

It is important that a preliminary estimate of the scope of the infestation is determined 

and a consensus reached in collaboration with the lead state agency in order to establish a 

quarantined area as soon as possible. A minimum of 1.5 miles from the point of any 

infested tree should be considered as the initial survey area and host trees within that 

radius surveyed for signs of infestation. As additional infested trees are identified, the 

radius from each infested tree should be plotted to determine if an expansion of the initial 

survey area is warranted. 

Depending upon terrain or geographic layout such as urban/suburban streets versus 

forested area, differing techniques may be employed to move quickly through to 

determine the extent of the infestation. For example, in areas with distinct street grids it 

is often practical to move to the next street or block of an infested tree and begin 

searching there, moving in similar fashion until no additional infestation is found. In a 

wooded location this may not be practical and a grid pattern may be created to do 

something of a similar nature. 

Local businesses and homeowners should be alerted of ALB and what to look for. High 

risk establishments handling host material should be placed on notice or provided with 

state/federally issued quarantine orders. During this entire process it is essential to have a 

representative or representatives from Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA) included to 

advise about handling media inquiries ensuring that essential activities may continue 

without interruption, and that accurate information is disseminated.

II. Established Programs 

a. Preliminary Surveys 

1. Intensive Core Survey (Level 1) 

Level 1 is defined as a 1⁄2-mile radius around any point of infestation for signs 

of ALB oviposition sites or exit holes. The “point of infestation” is typically 

an infested tree. If additional infestations are found, the core area will be 
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extended to 1⁄2 mile from the outermost find. 

2. Delimitation Survey (Level 2) 

Level 2 is defined as a 1-mile radius beyond the Level 1 boundary resulting in 

a 1 1⁄2-mile radius from the point of infestation. 

3. High Risk Site Detection (Level 3) 

Using investigative work to identify potential high-risk sites where ALB 

infested materials may have been moved to. See the Regulatory Procedures 

Section V. Determination of Historical Movement below for examples. 

b. Secondary Surveys 

After an infestation has been delimited (through the intensive core and delimitation 

surveys) and infested trees removed, secondary surveys are conducted within the Level 1 

and Level 2 boundaries. The frequency of secondary surveys is determined on a case-bycase basis since ALB infestations develop, and signs of infestation become more readily 

detectable over time. 

III. Survey Actions 

Visual tree inspections from the ground, bucket trucks and/or tree climbers can be used to 

complement and complete the survey of host trees within the Level 1 and Level 2 

boundaries. 

A review of the circumstances surrounding the infestation must be conducted to 

determine what survey procedures will be implemented. The number of times an area is 

surveyed is based on forest and host composition, the degree of infestation, and the time 

it takes between survey cycles. The number of survey cycles will also be impacted by the 

control strategy employed such as full host tree removal in an area. 

REGULATORY PROCEDURES 

I. Regulatory Authorities 

Federal Quarantine authority for ALB include 7 CFR 301.51 for eradication programs, 7 

CFR 319.40 for solid wood packing material, and 7 CFR 330 for plant pests. Under these 

regulations, PPQ establishes quarantines and regulates international and interstate 

movement of regulated host plant material. PPQ cannot regulate intrastate movement 

without the establishment of an intrastate quarantine which must be done parallel to, but 

after the State Plant Regulatory Agency from the infested state enacts an intrastate 

quarantine for ALB. This is done to facilitate regulatory activities within a geographical 

area less than an entire state. 
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II. Regulated Articles 

ALB in any living stage of development is a plant pest that is regulated according to the 

7CFR Part 330. The regulated articles for ALB are described in the 7CFR 301.51-2 and 

include the following:

 

1. Firewood from all hardwood species. Firewood is all wood split or unsplit less than 4 

feet in length. This excludes products moving for further processing or otherwise 

already regulated 

(http://www.dontmovefirewood.org/sites/default/files/nationalfirewoodtaskforcereco

mmendations.pdf) 

2. All host material living, dead, cut, or fallen inclusive of nursery stock, logs, green 

lumber, stumps, roots, branches, and debris of one-half inch or more in diameter. 

3. Any other article an inspector determines presents a risk of spreading ALB. 

III. Regulated Establishments 

Any entity, including municipalities or businesses engaged in the handling or movement 

of regulated host material in interstate or intrastate commerce should attend compliance 

training workshops presented by State or Federal officials. Private citizens may also 

attend these workshops. These workshops are designed to increase understanding of the 

regulations for the proper handling of regulated items in order to prevent further artificial 

spread of the ALB. ALB program officials may issue compliance agreements to 

interested parties in order to facilitate movement of regulated items in interstate or 

intrastate commerce for commercial processing or disposition at approved facilities. With 

a compliance agreement in place, the ALB program will not need to authorize or 

accompany individual movement of regulated material, thereby expediting commerce and 

maintaining quarantine integrity. Program regulatory staff are charged with monitoring of 

compliance agreement holders.

IV. Enforcement 

Regulated articles are eligible to leave the regulated area provided the conditions 

governing the interstate movement as described in the 7 CFR 301.51-4 are followed. A 

certificate or limited permit to move regulated material is required under a compliance 

agreement, as described in 7 CFR 301.51-5, 6, 7 and 8. Additionally, a State issued 

Limited Permit or Certificate may be issued for the intrastate movement of regulated 

articles moving for authorized processing or disposition in a manner that effectively 

eliminates the threat of ALB spread. Compliance agreements may be entered into by 

regulated entities permitting the movement of regulated material outside of the regulated 

area in lieu of individually issued limited permits or certificates issued by an on-site 

inspector. 

All ALB host material leaving the regulated area without a limited permit or certification 

are required to be chipped to a size of less than 1 inch in at least two dimensions - this is 

inclusive of all species of hardwood firewood, dead, cut, or fallen logs, green lumber, 
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stumps, roots, branches, and debris of 1⁄2 inch or more in diameter, of regulated species 

are. Chips of this size are no longer subject to federal regulations. 

V. Determination of Historical Movement 

Trace back investigations will be conducted in an attempt to determine the source of the 

infestation. These investigations will begin at the apparent epicenter of the core area and 

work outward from there. 

 

Trace forward investigations will be conducted to determine if infested host material and 

other regulated articles have been moved, when and to what locations. 

Investigations and analysis serve to identify potential high-risk sites where ALB infested 

materials may have been taken, including: 

1. Tree services that conduct business within the infested or regulated area, 

including locations where their vehicles are routinely parked and wood is 

disposed of or stored. 

2. Municipal parks, tree wardens, foresters, or other municipal groups that may cut 

or trim trees. 

3. Illegal roadside dumping areas that residents may utilize to dispose of tree waste. 

4. Locations where firewood may have been transported to (e.g., cabins, camps, 

etc.). 

5. Firewood dealers. 

6. Landfills or other places used for the disposal of recently cut wood and brush. 

7. Utility companies. 

8. Wood processing plants. 

9. Other persons or businesses who may transport regulated articles. 

VI. Regulated Area 

Quarantine boundaries of the regulated area are established through consultation with the 

cooperating regulatory agencies on the project. They are established based on current 

best management practices (BMP) and scientific data with consideration of the level of 

infestation (e.g., presence of egg sites and/or exit holes), geography (e.g., urban, wooded, 

etc.), knowledge of beetle movement characteristics in similar habitats, and areas of 

regulatory concern (e.g., movement of wood pallets or firewood). At times, quarantine 

boundaries may need to be adjusted to coincide with geographic barriers, major 

landmarks (e.g., highways) or other considerations that simplify following the boundary 

lines. 

\ 
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ERADICATION PROCEDURES 

I. Strategies 

The eradication strategy provides a means to significantly reduce ALB populations by 

targeting the area into which the pest is most likely to naturally disperse from an outbreak 

site. When combined with intensive detection activities, the strategy is expected to 

eradicate the pest from the outbreak site. The ability to apply control measures will be 

determined through an Environmental Assessment (see Environmental Compliance 

Chapter) and on a case-by-case basis. For control purposes, hosts include Acer spp., 

Aesculus spp., Albizia spp., Betula spp., Cercidiphyllum spp., Fraxinus spp., Platanus

spp., Populus spp., Salix spp., Sorbus spp., and Ulmus spp.

The response by the ALB eradication program depends upon specific conditions and 

characteristics of the site or area as well as local concerns. Targeted control strategies 

will be used to significantly reduce and contain ALB populations while working toward 

eradication. 

Considerations: 

 Total host removal and/or chemical treatment up to a 1⁄2 mile radius would 

encompass an area where a large percentage of the beetles would naturally 

disperse, but a low percentage could possibly disperse beyond this distance. An 

effective detection program is essential both inside and outside the control zone. 

 Total host removal is recommended to significantly reduce the likelihood of 

missing a low level infestation in a single or multiple trees. 

 Chemical treatment may be applied on a case-by-case basis through a minimum 

of three emergence seasons or cycles. Chemical treatment is expected to remove 

a high percentage of adults as they are exposed to lethal doses of pesticide 

residues during post-emergence feeding on twigs and leaves prior to mating and 

dispersal. Mated female adults are susceptible to treated trees as they prepare 

oviposition sites. Additionally, early-instar larvae may also be exposed to the 

chemical in a treated host tree’s vascular system. 

 As long as active populations exist in an area, chemical treatments applied on an 

annual basis to host trees that are not known-to-be infested with ALB will aid in 

the reduction of localized beetle populations. 

 While using chemical treatments, the ALB program should expect to continue to 

discover exit holes and/or oviposition sites on treated trees. The chemical 

treatment is not believed to be effective against large larvae already present in the 

sapwood or heartwood of a tree at the time of treatment. Also, some exit holes 

and/or oviposition sites may not have been discovered during previous surveys. 

These newly discovered trees with exit holes and/or oviposition sites should be 

removed and the control zone be adjusted accordingly. Because of this 

possibility, tree owners should be informed that their chemically treated tree is 

less likely to become infested due to expected ALB population decline resulting 

from chemical treatments conducted in the area, but that the tree may have to be 

removed in the future if evidence of the beetle is discovered. 
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Host Material Removal 

1. Infested trees 

The first priority when responding to an ALB infestation is to remove infested host trees. 

A host tree is considered infested when there is any sign of ALB activity or damage. 

Infested host removals remove immature life stages, eliminating potential adult beetle 

dispersal. 

After removing an infested host tree, all wood should preferably be chipped inside the 

quarantine zone to a size of less than 1 inch in at least two dimensions. Chips of this size 

are no longer subject to federal regulations. In some instances, host material that is not 

chipped at the site where the tree is removed may be moved to an approved processing 

site with proper safeguards as per a compliance agreement. For example, chipping 

infested material may not be necessary if it goes directly to incineration. During flight 

season infested material should be transported in covered or similarly enclosed trucks to 

further reduce the chances of beetle emergence and dispersal during transportation for 

final disposition. 

To prevent re-infestation of stumps, roots, and any shoots that may grow from these 

structures, it is recommended that the stumps and roots of host material be removed to a 

minimum of 6-9 inches below ground level. Any aboveground roots of one-half inch or 

more in diameter should also be removed. 

If stump removal is not possible, foliar applications of triclopyr mixed with two other 

herbicides, imazapyr and metsulfuron, could be applied to sprouting foliage. This would be 

used to prevent re-sprouting of stumps. ALB can re-infest sprouts of host trees. However, in 

some cases, such as woodlots, stumps of high risk host trees may not be ground or treated 

with herbicides to allow for regrowth of the trees.

2. High risk host trees 

Signs of low infestation levels may not be readily apparent and can remain unnoticed by 

visual survey. Consequently, due to the proximity to known infested trees, there is a risk 

of infestation of these high risk host trees.  When feasible, total host removal including 

high risk host trees is recommended over chemical treatments in proximity of an infested 

tree.  Cutting down infested and high risk host trees removes ALB larvae that may be 

within those trees, thus eliminating potential survival, emergence and dispersal.

II. Chemical Treatment 

1. Pesticide use:

Imidacloprid (or other approved agents) can be applied to high-risk host trees. Chemical 

treatments of imidacloprid are made through direct injection either into the tree trunk, into 

the soil immediately surrounding the tree, or via soil drench for containerized plantings (often 
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found in urban landscaped plantings). The rate of Imidacloprid used depends on the 

application method. Program applicators must adhere to the requirements on the chemical 

label and applicable local pesticide regulations or exemption requirements 

Imidacloprid treatments applied prior to and during the adult emergence period (spring and 

early summer), provide the time needed for the insecticide to be distributed throughout the 

tree. When multiple treatment applications are being considered, fall treatments have been 

shown to be as effective as treatments applied only in the spring. 

Application of imidacloprid should be repeated once yearly over a 3-year period to ensure 

that the concentration of the insecticide within the treated tree is at an adequate level to kill 

ALB. Imidacloprid treatments do not ensure complete control of ALB within a tree due to 

variability in treatments, weather conditions, and tree health, all of which can result in nonuniform distribution of imidacloprid within a tree. In addition, the chemical treatment has 

not been shown to be effective against large larvae already present in the tree at the time of 

treatment (USDA–APHIS, 2008a).

2. Pesticides and the label.

Before using any pesticide, always read the entire label and follow all instructions. Make 

sure the material is registered for your specific use in the area where you plan to treat; in 

some cases exemptions may be needed before using a product in ALB programs. Make 

sure all human and animal safety guidelines are strictly followed. Make sure all 

environmental guidelines are strictly followed and adhere to restrictions regarding the use 

of insecticides near wetlands and bodies of water. Adhere to state and local 

requirements. Dispose of any empty containers as per label instructions. 

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE 

I. Document Preparation 

A key element in designing a program or an emergency response is consultation with 

Environmental Services (ES), a unit of APHIS’ Policy and Program Development Staff 

(PPD). ES prepares environmental documentation such as environmental impact 

statements (EIS) and environmental assessments (EA) to aid in program operational 

decisions, as well as Endangered Species consultation. ES also coordinates pesticide 

registration and approvals for APHIS programs, ensuring that registrations and approvals 

meet program use needs and conform to pesticide use requirements. In addition, PPQ’s 

Environmental Compliance Team (ECT) assists ES in the development of required 

documentation and implements any environmental monitoring that may be required of 

program activities. Refer to the Resources Section of this document for additional 

information. 

II. National Environmental Policy Act 

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires that federal agencies document 

the potential adverse effects of their actions. The process often requires public input. The 
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exact nature of the documentation and public involvement is dictated by the potential for 

adverse effects and the significance of those effects. It is likely that most pest control 

responses will include actions that need up to 30 days of public comment prior to 

initiation. Therefore, it is imperative to involve staff from EC and ECT early in the 

planning process. Doing so assures public involvement and a more timely response. 

Depending on the proposed program, NEPA requirements will be met with a categorical 

exclusion, environmental assessment, or environmental impact statement. Some 

programs can prepare their own NEPA documentation. 

III. Endangered Species Act 

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) requires that all Federal actions, including 

emergency responses, do not harm Federally protected, threatened, or endangered 

species. ESA is administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Before an 

action can begin, it must be determined if protected species are in the project area. If such 

species are present, measures must be put in place to protect them from potential adverse 

effects of the action. Such work requires coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service and/or the National Marine Fisheries Service. 

Several methods are available to ensure compliance with ESA, but the exact one chosen 

is dictated by the nature of the emergency, proposed response, and location. As soon as 

possible in the early stages of the response, staff at Environmental Services or 

Environmental Compliance should be contacted, to provide the necessary guidance and 

support in conducting the necessary analyses and developing the required documentation. 

IV. Federal Insecticide Fungicide and Rodenticide Act 

The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) requires that chemicals 

used for control have approved labels and that all label requirements are followed. These 

requirements can include applicable uses, maximum application rates, handling 

instructions, and personal protective equipment. If no label is available for the 

emergency in question (i.e., the pest of concern is not listed as one for which the 

chemical may be used), it is possible to obtain a new label or a label exemption. 

V. Other Laws 

The National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, and the Federal 

Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, are of critical importance to all pest control 

programs, but other laws may apply depending on program locations and activities. 

These include the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Coastal Zone Management Act, and the 

Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. By including Environmental Services and 

Environmental Compliance early in program planning, guidance can be provided on 

meeting the requirements of these and other laws that may apply. 

VI. Environmental Monitoring 
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Environmental monitoring of APHIS pest control activities may be required as part of 

compliance with the above laws, as requested by program managers, or as suggested to 

address concerns with controversial activities. This is especially true for less benign 

chemical controls and aerial application of chemicals. Monitoring may be conducted with 

regards to worker exposure, quality assurance and control, off-site deposition, or program 

efficacy. Different tools and techniques are used depending on the monitoring goals, 

program chemicals, and control techniques. Environmental monitoring is coordinated by 

Environmental Compliance (EC). Staff from EC will work with the program manager to 

develop an environmental monitoring plan, conduct training to implement the plan, 

provide day-to-day guidance on monitoring, and provide an interpretive report of 

monitoring activities. 

PUBLIC EDUCATION 

I. Public Outreach 

An effective public outreach program developed with state and local cooperators is 

essential to the success of an ALB eradication program. An informed and supportive 

public will serve as the best survey tool available to the program, as many new ALB 

infested sites have been identified and reported by the general public. Outreach also 

serves to educate the public and gain voluntary compliance to not move potentially 

infested wood products. 

a) Public Meetings 

Public meetings should be scheduled in the impacted communities as soon as it’s 

practical after ALB has been confirmed. The purpose of public meetings is to 

inform the public of the need and plans for an eradication and quarantine 

program. Prior to the meeting, any specific political, social, economic, and 

environmental concerns of the community should be identified. 

Public meeting notifications should, at a minimum, be posted in the local news 

media. 

The public meetings should include the following: 

1. A moderator who can insure orderly conduct of the meeting and direct 

questions to the appropriate persons for answers. 

2. Political representatives who are familiar with local concerns. 

3. Representatives from State Regulatory Agencies who can answer questions 

about the detection of ALB, quarantine restrictions, control measures, and their 

impact. 

4. Representatives from state and local universities who can answer questions 

about the biology of ALB, its host range, and potential impact in the United 

States. 
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b) Phone Banks 

A toll-free telephone number will be set up to serve as an ALB hotline. The 

hotline number is staffed by personnel trained to answer questions from the public 

about the ALB eradication program. Reference material is provided with 

anticipated common questions and answers the history and protocols of the 

project as well as the biology of ALB. Forms will be developed locally to 

document sightings of ALB, complaints, and threats. Past experience has shown 

that three to five individuals on staggered shifts between 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

can handle calls from a community of 30,000. In large metropolitan areas, 

additional staffing may be required to answer calls in a timely manner. When the 

initial high demand tapers off, staffing can be reduced. A voice mail system can 

be used to take calls after office hours, 

c) Notification to Residents 

The purpose of notification is to comply with state or local laws and provide 

accurate information in an understandable and non-threatening format to residents 

within the regulated area for ALB. Any resident who may have ALB-positive or 

high risk host material removed from their property or pesticide treatments 

applied to trees on their property will be notified in writing prior to the action 

being conducted. These notices will include the ALB hotline number and the 

opportunity for the property owner to witness the removal of ALB-positive host 

material if they desire to do so. 

Notification can be accomplished by direct mailing or door-to-door contact. Staff 

conducting notifications should avoid the following: 

1. Negative or facetious comments about the project. 

2. Misinformation about regulatory and control protocols. 

3. Speculation about the progress of control measures. 

4. Special arrangements with individual property owners. 

II. Media Relations 

The APHIS, PPQ, Legislative & Public Affairs (LPA) staff should be notified as soon as 

possible after ALB is confirmed and routinely notified of any media requests. All 

national media calls must be coordinated with APHIS/LPA. The State partnering agency 

may also have a Public Information Officer. 

One primary media spokesperson should be designated for the cooperative eradication 

program staff. The spokesperson is to be thoroughly briefed and current on particular 

aspects of the program such as control, regulatory, and survey activities. It is important 

that representative create a rapport with local media, to ensure best results with accurate 
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and favorable coverage of the project. To avoid conflicting and confusing statements, all 

outgoing information should be processed through the designated spokesperson. 

The amount of media attention given to ALB eradication programs in the past has been 

very high. If personnel at the local level do not have adequate media experience to deal 

with the requests, the APHIS, PPQ, LPA staff should be notified so they can provide 

experienced media representation to the program.