1. ISDA Japanese beetle detail

Chemical treatment for Japanese beetles in part of Caldwell, Idaho, started during the week of May 21-27, according to the state Department of Agriculture.

The beetles “pose a major threat to Canyon County, one of our state’s most diverse and prosperous agricultural regions,” Andrea Thompson, the department’s plant industries administrator, said in a release.

The grubs feed on grass roots, and the adults attack the foliage, flowers and fruits of more than 300 ornamental and agricultural plants, according to USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

In 2022, 77 of the beetles were collected in Caldwell traps, defining an established infestation in the area, according to ISDA.

The department this year received permission to treat nearly 830 properties in the area bordered by Lincoln Road to the north, Franklin Road to the south, Interstate 84 to the west and Smeed Parkway to the east.

Department staff will supervise a licensed pest-control operator in applying Acelepryn. The reduced-risk larvicide will be applied to all grass lawns or turf — targeting eggs, grubs (larvae) and adult beetles, according to the department.

Where treatments are planned, residents should make sure the crew has good access, non-stationary items are removed, and people and pets stay inside during the treatment, according to the release.

After treatment, grass should be watered to allow soil penetration, and then completely dried before normal activity is resumed.

A second treatment of the same properties is scheduled for mid-July. Residents will be notified a week in advance.

Call 208-332-8627.