A number of task forces and groups consisting of growers, vintners, researchers and government officials are working to develop solutions to the problem. These strategies include the use of systemic insecticides to disrupt the acquisition and transmission of the pathogen by the sharpshooter. UC Riverside researchers are investigating the efficacy of biological controls, such as parasitic wasps to reduce glassy-winged sharpshooter populations, and barriers and traps to keep vectors out of vineyards. Long-term research being conducted at UC Davis is focused on developing resistance to the Pierce's disease bacterium through genetic engineering. Yes, the public is a valuable ally in the battle against the glassy-winged sharpshooter.
Eyes are a valuable and effective pest detection tool.
Learn how to identify the sharpshooter. The county Agricultural Commissioner's office, UC Extension farm advisors and county Farm Bureaus have brochures on the sharpshooter. They will provide insect collection and positive identification. If a resident captures insects, note where and when they were collected and on which plants they were found. The public can also help by making sure that they don't bring in plants from infested areas of the state.