Fall Pests Invade Firewood, Homes

By: Bonney Bowman - Email

Updated: Wed 4:42 AM, Oct 24, 2012

"Don't freak out, they're not going to hurt you, they're not going to damage your house. Best thing to do is vacuum them up, sweep them off the porch and get rid of them." - State Entomologist Julie Van Meter

As the temperatures drop, many of us turn to our fire places for warmth.

But before stocking up on wood, there are some questions you need to ask.

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is urging everyone to make sure the fire wood they purchase is local.

Wood imported from out of state can carry dangerous insects, like the Emerald Ash Borer, which could decimate trees in the region.

Experts say the best way to know your wood is safe is to ask your provider where it came from.

Other great questions to ask are whether or not the wood has been heat treated or de-barked, which greatly reduce the chance of spreading pests.

The Emerald Ash Borer has been detected in several states nearby, including Iowa, Missouri and Kansas.

Experts are also concerned about Thousand Cankers Disease spreading to walnut trees in the state.

Meanwhile, we haven't had that hard freeze yet and that means you may be seeing some pests around your home.

Experts say the two biggest this time of year are Box Elder Bugs and Asian Lady Beetles.

On sunny days, you may see them on the south and west sides of your home.

They're looking for a warm, dry place to spend the winter and our homes rank top of the list, so don't be surprised if they make their way inside.

State Entomologist Julie Van Meter says, "Don't freak out, they're not going to hurt you, they're not going to damage your house. Best thing to do is vacuum them up, sweep them off the porch and get rid of them. Don't try to poison them in your house. Don't get too excited about it. It'll be a problem for the next few weeks and then it should be over with."

Another pest to keep an eye out for is the the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug.

It's an exotic, invasive species making its way into the state.

They have black and white markings which set them apart from traditional stink bugs.