Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter Detected on Grapevines at Napa Costco

A destructive pest known as the glassy-winged sharpshooter has been detected on grapevine plants sold at the Napa Costco, raising serious concerns for California's wine industry. The Butte County Agricultural Commissioner, Katharine Quist, confirmed on Tuesday that the Chico Costco also sold approximately 200 of the infected plants since April 21, when the first sharpshooter was reported.

The pest is a known vector for Pierce's disease, which can devastate vineyards by blocking water and nutrient flow in grapevines. Agricultural officials are now working to trace and contain the spread, urging customers who purchased grapevines from these Costco locations to report them immediately.

The discovery has alarmed growers and vintners across the state, as the pest poses a significant threat to the multibillion-dollar wine industry.