Asian long-horned beetles are a threat to New York's woodlands.

Invasive Pests

What is an Invasive Species?

Invasive species are non-native species that can cause harm to the environment, the economy or to human health. Invasives come from all around the world. As international trade increases, so does the rate of invasive species introductions. Invasive species are one of the greatest threats to New York's biodiversity. They cause or contribute to: habitat degradation and loss; the loss of native fish, wildlife and tree species; the loss of recreational opportunities and income; and crop damage and diseases in humans and livestock (from the New York Dept. of Environmental Conservation).

Hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae) -adult

Hemlock Pest

The Hemlock Woolly Adelgid lives and feeds on hemlock trees. Infested trees can die within 2 years, although 10-12 years is more common.

Emerald Ash Borer

Learn how to identify the Emerald Ash Borer, monitor your Ash trees, detect and report possible EAB in your trees, and more, with resources we've compiled on this site.

Armyworm

Corn, sorghum, and other plants of the grass family are preferred hosts of the Armyworm but it also attacks other crops. Learn how to identify and control this destructive pest.

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is native to Asia, and was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2001. It produces an unpleasant smell indoors, and can damage shade and fruit trees, vegetables and legumes.

Asian Longhorned Beetle

First found in New York in 1996, the Asian Longhorned Beetle is a serious threat to our maples and other hardwood trees.

Striped cucumber beetle Acalymma vittatum (Fabricius, 1775) from Bugwood.org

Pests & IPM

IPM is a system for managing pest problems using a range of safe, least-toxic methods. Find IPM resources here!

Last updated June 14, 2020

Invasive Pests

Don't Move Firewood!

Firewood Transport Rules were revised August 2012 to improve regulatory compliance and enforcement. The existence of this regulation helps prevent firewood infested with invasive insects such as emerald ash borer and Asian long-horned beetle from being transported throughout the state, destroying trees from one place to another.

For Forest Owners

Cornell's ForestConnect provides forest owners with educational resources to help them make decisions about the management of their property.

New York State IPM

The New York State IPM Program at Cornell University develops sustainable ways to manage pests and helps people to use methods that minimize environmental, health, and economic risks.