Training Sessions to Fight Beetle and Borer Tree Infestations

7/12/2012 (Updated 11:14:55 PM)

They are two tiny pests that pose a big threat to  our forests.

The Asian *Longhorned* beetle--

--and the Emerald Ash Borer are already responsible for destroying millions of trees.

Dozens of volunteers gathered at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County for training on how to identify these insects and signs of infestation.
On Friday, the volunteers will continue their education by going out and conducting surveys and looking for signs of pests in the Binghamton area.
   
"The damage looks different for the different insects, but they will leave exit holes where the adults actually chew out the bark so there will be holes left that are diagnostic," said Kevin Mathers of the Cornell Cooperative Extention of Broome County.
 
And remember,  if you're camping at any New York State Park,
be sure to check the  rules and regulations about transporting firewood, to avoid spreading the  insects.