2005 EXOTIC WIREWORM REPORT

2005 Western Washington Delimiting Survey for Agriotes obscurus and A. lineatus (Coleoptera: Elateridae), Exotic Wireworm Pests New to the United States

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Two major European wireworm pest species, Agriotes obscurus (L.) and Agriotes lineatus (L.), previously known to be present in B.C., Canada and parts of Northwestern Washington, were detected for the first time in King, Lewis, and Cowlitz Counties in this 200-trap survey. Current known distribution of the exotic pest species now includes most counties along the I-5 corridor in Western Washington and three counties in Northwestern Oregon (in collaborative survey by the Oregon Department of Agriculture). Survey in King County (greater Seattle area) found high populations of both exotic species in rural areas but not in urban settings. Significant impacts to corn and organic row-crop production in Northwestern Washington are also reported.

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1Chief Entomologist - Washington State Department of Agriculture, Olympia, Washington
2Entomology Aide (Project) - Washington State Department of Agriculture, Olympia, Washington
3Extension Entomologist - Washington State Extension, Seattle, Washington
4Plant Services Specialist - Washington State Department of Agriculture, Bellingham, Washington

Eric LaGasa, Chief Entomologist
Washington State Department of Agriculture
Pest Program / Plant Protection Division
P.O. Box 42560 - 1111 Washington Street
Olympia, Washington 98504-2560
(360) 902-2063 FAX (360) 902-2094
elagasa@agr.wa.gov

Sue Welch, Entomology Aide (Project)
(Contact via E. LaGasa)

Todd Murray, Extension Entomologist
WSU Extension
King County
919 SW Grady Way, Suite 201
Renton, WA 98055 King Co.
(206) 205-3121
Todd.Murray@METROKC.GOV

John Wraspir, Plant Services Specialist
1000 North Forest Street, Suite 202
Bellingham, WA 9822
(360) 676-6739 FAX (360) 738-2458
jwraspir@agr.wa.gov