Monitoring BMSB
It is possible to monitor the presence, abundance and seasonal activity of BMSB to assess when and where control measures may be needed. This could eventually lead to cost-effective and safe control for growers. However, BMSB is not easily lured into traps, and optimal trapping protocols and materials are still under investigation.
One line of traps that is commercially available and is similar to the ones being used by the USDA is the dark green pyramid trap from AgBio Inc. which is usually secured into the ground between fruit trees near a wooded border or in the wooded border near the crop. Other traps are placed in the canopy and attached to branches. Pheromone lures can also be purchased, and a more specific and potent lure, developement by the USDA and by land grant university scientists, is now comercially available. Light traps are also in development. Black, blue, and white light are all attractive to BMSB. The blue lights attract fewer non-target insects.
UMass Extension (the EIP project) expanded its network of BMSB trapping sites in 2013 and has coordinated a network of about 17 trap sites each year since then. Traps are be baited with the best pheromone available at the time, and checked regularly until frost. Trap capture information will be updated periodically.
The MA Dept of Ag Resources is interested in collecting information on detections of BMSP. If you suspect you have found BMSP, please submit a report to Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project at massnrc.org/pests/report.aspx. A specimen of the insect can be kept in the freezer or in alcohol. A close-up photograph that shows the antennae and the top view of the abdomen would be a good aid for identification.