Check Your Pool Filter for Asian Longhorned Beetle

The Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) is a serious threat to Vermont’s forests and trees. It has not been found in Vermont yet, but we need your help to be on the lookout for it!

Between now and the end of August, we're inviting all pool owners to check their filters and swimmers for ALB.

Why pools as collection sites? Days after the discovery of ALB in Worcester, experts were canvassing neighborhoods investigating the extent of the outbreak when they stumbled across a public pool attendant who said he was collecting these beetles for years in his pool filters.

The beetles are easiest to see when they are most active in late July through late August. Barbara Burns,  with VT Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation says, "We are reminding Vermont residents to look for ALB in their trees and even in their swimming pools this July and August. We need as many people as possible looking for the beetle."

At least once a week, or whenever you clean your pool, look at the debris you collect in your filter and skimmers.  If you find something suscipous, please call 1-866-702-9938 or go to the ALB Report It website.

This news release has been adapted from UNH Cooperative Extension.