BURLINGTON, Vt. -
Vermont is looking for a few good pest detectors.
The state Department of Forest, Parks & Recreation runs the Forest Pest First Detector Program. Volunteers undergo online and workshop courses to help them identify invasive forest pests. It was a volunteer who detected the Hemlock Wooly Adelgid that has spread into Bennington County. The volunteers are considered a valuable tool to help locate and inform the public about exotic tree pests.
"When it comes to invasive forest pests, the earlier we can detect their presence the more options we have in our response," said Jim Esden with Vt. Department of Forest, Parks & Recreation.
"I think these trees are very important, not only for their beauty and aesthetic value. It is home to many plants and animals -- and commercially for lumber," said Michael Rosenthal, a program volunteer.
Two in-person trainings are planned for September. Click here for more information.
