VASCM: European Grapevine Moth

[Mary Lindsay]

Just letting you know about another pest... you may have seen recent 
news about the European Grapevine Moth found in Napa. Here is a message 
from the Napa Co. Ag Commissioner.

- Mary Lindsay

 
*From:* Whitmer, Dave [ mailto:DWHITMER at co.napa.ca.us]
*Sent:* Friday, October 09, 2009 9:47 AM
*Subject:* European Grapevine Moth (Lobesia botrana)
 
I want to notify you of a serious and unwelcomed development in our 
battle to keep invasive pests out of Napa County. In September, we 
became aware of significant damage and crop loss occurring in Oakville 
and Rutherford area vineyards. Growers were finding numerous larvae in 
winegrape fruit clusters and experiencing significant crop damage or 
loss primarily from subsequent botrytis bunch rot. Growers had been 
asked to keep their eyes open for the presence of the Light Brown Apple 
Moth (LBAM), and many contacted our office and provided samples of 
damaged fruit, larvae, etc.  Staff biologists also visited sites to 
conduct vineyard surveys and collect additional samples.  These moth 
larvae and pupae samples were sent to the California Department of Food 
and Agriculture laboratory for analysis and were determined to not be 
LBAM or other common species, such as Orange Tortrix or Omnivorous 
Leafroller. CDFA entomologists utilizing newly acquired genetic lab 
techniques were subsequently able to identify the European Grapevine 
Moth (/Lobesia botrana/), a very destructive pest of winegrapes which 
has never before been detected in the United States.     
 
We are currently working with CDFA and USDA to determine the moth's 
distribution within Napa County by conducting extensive trapping using 
pheromone lures specific for /Lobesia botrana/. Detection traps have 
been placed at a density of 5 traps/sq. mi. within a 9 sq. mile core 
area around Oakville.  Another 40 sq. mile area surrounding the core is 
also being trapped, while an additional 40 sq. miles is being trapped 
along lines that radiate outward from the core, like spokes on a wheel.  
All traps should be in place by the end of business today and so far no 
other moths have been found.  Traps will be inspected at least weekly 
starting next Monday, October 12, 2009.
 
We are also in discussions with USDA and CDFA to determine a proper 
regulatory response. Information is currently being prepared for release 
and distribution to the media, industry groups, elected and public 
officials, farmers, and public.  It is already clear that this pest has 
the potential to cause serious damage if allowed to become established 
in the region. 
I have attached a risk assessment document prepared by USDA on the 
European Grapevine Moth for your information. I will keep you informed 
of developments as they occur.
Please contact me if you have any questions. 

Dave Whitmer
Napa County Agricultural Commissioner/
Sealer of Weights and Measures
1710 Soscol Ave. # 3
Napa, CA 94559-1315
Main: (707) 253-4357
Fax:    (707) 253-4881
www.co.napa.ca.us <http://www.co.napa.ca.us>