Pest Prevention Rates Increase for Napa Valley Vineyard Owners

The Napa County Board of Supervisors passed an increase in an assessment for pest control and disease prevention. The increase will reflect $2.50 more an acre to protect the vineyards from infestation from pests such as the Vine Mealybug.

Vineyard owners know the importance of pest control and the consequences that could arise without the protection, so they are not hesitant on paying the new total assessment of $8.22 an acre. All owners with at least an acre will pay the assessment annually.

The vineyards are the leading stimulant of the economy within Napa County, so growers feel the increase is a small price to pay compared to losing an entire crop or the vines from infestation.

The common pest seen as a problem this year is the Vine Mealybug and it is reported to be seen in three areas in Napa County. Fortunately, the new assessment will go towards reducing this pest’s presence in Napa Valley using chemical-free techniques.

Scientists have identified the pheromone the female bugs use to attract the male. The male bugs can fly and will find the females that can’t fly by their pheromone.

The county is using pheromone dispensers to confuse the males in search of a mate therefore causing them to not mate thus reducing their population. Grape growers are pleased with this technique as it remedies the problem without releasing harsh chemicals into the environment.

The pest control program has been successful in the previous years and has received an overwhelming amount of support from grape growers. The program has expanded to protect and other pests and diseases and provides inspections of all incoming nursery products. If the products contain any signs bug infestation, they will be turned away.

It is important to protect your property and assets from bugs as the damage they cause can significantly devalue the property and the price for repair is far more expensive than pest control services. Call Pro Pacific Pest Control today for a free inspection of your property to save you from a serious pest infestation.