Warning Issued for Japanese Beetles Swarming in the Groß-Gerau District
In the picturesque town of Trebur, located in the district of Groß-Gerau, Hesse, a new threat has emerged. Japanese beetles, originating from Asia, have been discovered, causing concern among local authorities and residents.
To combat this invasive species, an action plan has been initiated by the government presidency in Gießen. This plan includes the establishment of both an infestation zone and a buffer zone around the discovery sites in Trebur. The infestation zone, with a radius of approximately one kilometer, is where the Japanese beetles have been found. The buffer zone extends up to six kilometers and includes the municipalities of Rüsselsheim, Nauheim, Ginsheim-Gustavsburg, Nackenheim, and western parts of Groß-Gerau.
A watering ban from June to the end of September is in effect for the infestation zone. This ban aims to prevent Japanese beetles from laying eggs and spreading further. The watering ban applies to lawn and green areas within the infestation zone. Plants may only leave the affected area if it is officially guaranteed that they are free of Japanese beetles, and they must be securely packaged under certain conditions.
Harvested products must also be checked for potential Japanese beetle infestation before transport. These inspections must be documented. To aid in the control efforts, pheromone traps have been set up to catch the Japanese beetles.
To prevent further spread, businesses within the control zones are obliged to regularly inspect their surroundings. Vehicles and agricultural equipment within the infestation zone must be regularly cleaned. Found Japanese beetles must be immediately reported to the Plant Protection Service.
The responsible organizations named by the district office Groß-Gerau for monitoring and ensuring compliance with measures against Japanese bees are the district office itself (Landratsamt Groß-Gerau) and local authorized pest control or agricultural institutions designated by it.
The Japanese beetles pose a significant threat to agriculture, causing damage to crops such as grapevines, corn plants, and fruit trees. The infestation and buffer zones are similar to those established during the African Swine Fever outbreak in southern Hesse since 2024.
The community is urged to work together to control the spread of these invasive pests and protect the local agriculture. By adhering to the watering ban, reporting any sightings, and ensuring proper inspection and cleaning, we can help preserve the beauty and productivity of our region.
