The Oregon Department of Agriculture announced on Mar. 19 that it will continue its efforts to eradicate and monitor the Japanese beetle after the state legislature approved $1.8 million in funding for the program over the 2026 and 2027 crop years.
This funding is important because the Japanese beetle is an invasive pest that can damage more than 300 types of plants, including roses, hops, grapes, and many ornamental species. If left unmanaged, beetle populations could increase, leading to greater pesticide use and risks to crops and gardens.
According to recent data from the department, full program activity was maintained throughout 2025, resulting in a 65% reduction in beetle numbers compared to last year and a 92% decrease since 2016. In total, 1,918 beetles were trapped across Oregon in 2025, with most found at a single home in Washington County. The largest infestation was first detected in Washington County in 2016, with smaller populations later found in Clackamas and Multnomah Counties. In 2025, one beetle was also found each in Marion and Union Counties.
The department plans public outreach activities before starting treatments this spring. Traps will be placed from late April through early May where beetles have been previously detected as well as other areas to monitor for new introductions. Treatments will mainly involve spring lawn applications of Acelepryn G insecticide and may include summer foliar treatments in high-catch areas; all require landowner consent and are supervised by staff.
Residents are encouraged not to move outdoor potted plants or participate in plant swaps to help prevent spreading the pest. Keeping green waste local can also reduce risk of transporting beetles into new areas.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture focuses on supporting Oregon’s agricultural sector through initiatives on weed management, safety training, and emergency preparedness according to the official website. The agency provides services such as weed biocontrol, seed testing, tractor safety training, pesticide licensing oversight, and supports family-owned farms producing commodities for local and international markets according to its official website. Director Lisa Charpilloz Hanson has led the department using her experience in agricultural policy and program administration as detailed on the department’s official website.
Looking ahead, ODA will update its website with progress reports as activities continue through September. The agency extends its programs statewide serving producers across Oregon as noted on its official website, managing key elements such as cannabis oversight and pest control programs while delivering resources for farm safety training and emergency planning.
