Beetle killing trees, affecting tourism

WORCESTER, Mass. (WWLP) - The Asian Longhorned Beetle is wreaking havoc in Worcester. 26,000 trees have been chopped down and thousands more are in danger of dying.

Millions of beetles have destroyed a three square mile area of Worcester's forestry.

The bug has a distinctive look; it's big, black with white dots, and has a long antennae.

It feeds on 11 different species of trees, including maple which is vital to the tourism industry in the fall and to maple sugar farmers.

"The danger is to the trees and ultimately the environment. This is the first time it's been found into the forests, and the maple tree is what the beetle likes the most and is important to tourism, maple sugar industry and quality of life in neighborhoods," said Rick Sullivan, Dept. of Conservation and Recreation.

Experts believe the beetles came to America on cargo ships from China.

If you see this bug in your area, contact the State Department of Conservation and Recreation by calling 1-617-626-1250.