San Benito County Urges Reporting of Costco Grapevine Purchases to Combat Invasive Pest
Authorities in San Benito County are calling on residents who have recently purchased grapevines from Costco stores in Monterey, Santa Cruz, or Santa Clara counties to contact the local Agriculture Department. This request is part of a statewide initiative to prevent the spread of the glassy-winged sharpshooter, an invasive insect capable of transmitting Pierce’s disease, which poses a significant threat to California's vineyards and other crops. The call to action was announced on June 3, following an emergency response coordinated by the California Agricultural Commissioners and Sealers Association. The effort aims to locate, inspect, and potentially remove infested grapevines distributed through Costco warehouses in Northern California. Residents are advised not to move or dispose of the plants until they receive further instructions from agricultural officials. They are encouraged to contact the San Benito County Department of Agriculture to arrange for an inspection. 
