NY pool owners asked to look for invasive beetles

PHOTOGRAPHER: The Associated Press

Swimming pool owners can help scientists track the spread of invasive Asian long-horned beetles by checking their filters.

The Department of Environmental Conservation is inviting pool owners to participate in its third annual Asian long-horned beetle survey now through August 29.

The beetles have killed hundreds of thousands of trees across the country. Particularly hard hit are maple trees in New York City, on Long Island, in New Jersey, in Chicago, in Worcester, Massachusetts and Clermont, Ohio.

Pool monitoring offers a simple, economical alternative to traditional surveys. It also has the potential to become New York’s most effective method for detecting the pests.

Participants check their pool filters and skimmers for the beetles and email pictures to DEC.