Relating to the Asian Long-horned Beetle in the United States

WHEREAS, The Asian Long-horned Beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis, is a destructive tree killing insect not native to the United States; and

WHEREAS, significant portions of the urban, suburban, and rural forest trees of the United States are known or potential host species for the Asian Long-horned Beetle; and

WHEREAS, infestations of trees by Asian Long-horned Beetles results in undesirable ecological and economic consequences such as tree death, habitat loss, direct damage to wood and wood-products, financial losses to industries which produce wood or trade in wood products, and increased administrative costs associated with detection, eradication, and regulation; and

WHEREAS, the Asian Long-horned Beetle is known to easily be moved in wood products such as pallets, crating, and packing materials; and

WHEREAS, at least two major infestations of Asian Long-horned Beetle currently exist in the United States and detections have been made throughout the country; and

WHEREAS, the valuable forests, trees, and industries of the United States are at serious risk of invasion and damage by Asian Long-horned Beetle.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The members of the National Association of State Foresters declare that:

• Citizens, businesses, and government officials should be educated regarding the severe ecological and economic threat of Asian Long-horned Beetle;
• Cooperation, coordination, and communication between State and Federal forestry, plant protection and trade agencies should be increased and augmented to ensure that prevention, interception, detection, eradication, and recovery efforts associated with Asian Long-horned Beetle and other exotic pests occur efficiently and effectively;
• The interim rule published in the Federal Register, September 18, 1998 (Vol. 63, No. 181) which requires additional treatment and certification for solid wood packing materials originating in China should be adopted and strictly enforced;
• National leaders and worldwide trading partners should be active participants in specific efforts to prevent the movement and spread of Asian Long-horned Beetle and other exotic pests beyond their natural ranges;
• Each member of the National Association of State Foresters should contact the members of their Congressional delegation and request immediate action on this issue.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: This resolution adopts the attached White Paper, entitled "Asian Long-Horned Beetle - A Wood Pest of Grave Importance in the United States", as a position statement of the Association.

Action: Approved

Date: October 8, 1998

Note: This resolution adopts a position statement entitled "Asian Long-Horned Beetle - A Wood Pest of Grave Importance in the United States", which will be published separately.