The Japanese Beetle (Popillia japonica) has now been found closer to the Okanagan than ever. Multiple beetles were collected in Kamloops in 2024 and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has established a regulated area. Prior to this discovery, the beetle was considered contained to the Lower Mainland.
This insect poses a serious threat to agriculture, landscaping, horticulture, sport facilities and public parks. At the larval stage, this insect feeds on the roots of turf grass. The adults feed on the foliage of over 300 agricultural and landscaping plant species. Included in those species are cherry, apple, grape vine, peach, apricot, plum, and various berry crops.
The most common pathway of spread is the movement of soil, turf or plants with soil attached. Moving these items out of a Japanese beetle regulated area is restricted and requires a CFIA-issued movement certificate.
For more information on how to identify the Japanese Beetle and the treatment plan for BC, click here