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Japanese Beetle Population Cut By 95%

Japanese Beetle on leaf

Japanese Beetles Population In Utah County
Again Cut by 95 Percent

Green Waste Collection Program Restrictions Lifted

Gardening Again Allowed

Orem, Utah – The numbers of Japanese beetles in Orem have nearly been reduced to zero following three years of intense treatment by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) and remarkable public participation. The number of beetles detected and captured this season totaled just five, this represents a reduction in the insect’s numbers by 95 percent over last year. As a result, Orem City is lifting restrictions on its Green Waste Collection Program that was put in place to help prevent the spread of the beetle through the movement of sod and discarded shrubs and trees limbs.

“We are very pleased that we colleted so few beetles this year. This gives us hope that we can eradicate this pest,” said Program Manager, Clint Burfitt.. “We need to compliment the residents in the treatment area for helping make this project such a success,” he added.

The discovery this year of five male beetles in the treatment area, compared with 101 beetles last year, requires the UDAF to continue its spraying program one more year. A reduced area of 100 acres is being considered for treatment in 2010. That area is bordered by 500 N., 350 W., 100 N., and 725 W. streets.
As in the previous two years, gardening will be permitted with no restrictions. To see maps and read more about the Japanese beetle, visit:

posted Oct. 15, 2009

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