BOISE — The Idaho State Department of Agriculture is requesting permission from property owners in select Caldwell and Pocatello neighborhoods to conduct free treatments aimed at eradicating the invasive Japanese beetle.

Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica) are highly invasive pests of more than 300 plants, including some of Idaho’s top commodities. If left unchecked, they pose a significant threat to the state’s agriculture industry.

ISDA is seeking property owner consent to apply targeted treatments to lawns and turf in affected areas. Property owners in designated treatment zones have been mailed letters containing details about the program and a consent form. Only properties with signed consent will receive treatment.

Japanese beetles were first detected in Canyon County in 2021, and this marks the third consecutive year of eradication efforts in Caldwell. Treatment zones are determined by ISDA’s 2024 trap findings in both Caldwell and Pocatello.

To check if your property is in the treatment zone and submit a consent form, visit agri.idaho.gov/jb.