Purple-colored trap used to detect emerald ash borer.
To monitor the emerald ash borer, large, purple-colored traps are hung in ash trees from spring through summer. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, USDA and Fairfax County are using the traps to monitor this insect because of its threat to ash trees. Several of these traps are hung in trees throughout Town. Residents should be aware of the following information regarding the purple traps:
Traps don't contain pesticides or chemicals.
No pesticides or chemicals are used in the traps. Instead, they are baited with natural plant oil and covered with a non-toxic glue to catch the insect.
Traps only detect the emerald ash borer- not eradicate it.
The traps allow the insect to be detected without damaging trees. Without the traps, tree bark must be cut away to find the borers. The traps are checked regularly to see if any borers have been caught.
Traps won't lure the borer to your property if it's not already in the area.
Traps are placed in or near ash trees, the only kind of tree that the borers attack. If this pest isn't already in your area, the traps won't draw them to your property.
Don't touch the traps because they are very sticky.
The traps are covered with a non-toxic glue that's extremely sticky and messy if touched. If you find a trap on the ground, call the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at (804) 786-3515, TTY 711.
Information provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.