Found insect is potential pine tree threat

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An insect that could be a serious threat to commercial pine trees has been found in Vermont.

The Sirex Woodwasp was captured in a trap in Lamoille County.

The wood-boring insect was first detected in New York State in 2004, and has since been found in northern Pennsylvania, Michigan and southern Ontario.

The pest is native to Europe, Asia and Africa.

Officials believe it entered the United States inside wooden crates, pallets and other forms of wood packaging.

The insect damages trees such as Austrian, jack, red and Scotch pines.

Officials say if the insect becomes established in Vermont, there are ways to manage it.

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