NEVADA COUNTY

Nevada County agricultural officials are urging residents to take immediate precautions following the detection of the invasive glassy-winged sharpshooter on grape plants sold at Costco stores including locations in Northern California. This insect spreads Pierce’s disease, a fatal bacterial infection that affects grapevines and many ornamental plants — posing a serious threat to California agriculture and home landscapes.

Anyone who purchased grape plants from Costco stores including Northern California locations between April 21 and May 21 is asked to contact their local County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office for guidance.

The glassy-winged sharpshooter, originally from the southeastern United States and Northeastern Mexico, has been established in parts of Central and Southern California since the 1990s. It feeds on more than 250 plant species and remains one of the state’s most significant agricultural pests.

Officials are asking residents who purchased grape plants from Costco:

• Do not attempt to return, transport, or relocate the plant. 
• Do not dispose of the plants in the trash or compost bin.
• Contact the Nevada County Department of Agriculture at (530) 470-2690 or agdept@nevadacountyca.gov for instructions.

More information on the glassy-winged sharpshooter is available at cdfa.ca.gov. Nevada County appreciates the public’s cooperation in helping protect local agriculture and prevent the further spread of this invasive pest.

~ Nevada County press release