Invasive Grapevine-Killing Pest Found in Hundreds of Bay Area Plants, Including Antioch

Bay Area agriculture officials are on high alert after a dangerous grapevine pest was imported into the region via Costco sales. The glassy-winged sharpshooter, which spreads the fatal Pierce's disease, has been found in hundreds of grapevines sold at Costco locations across multiple counties, including Contra Costa County.

In Contra Costa County, officials reported that roughly 200 plants were sold before the infestation was detected, with the plants coming from five Costco stores in Danville, Concord, Brentwood, Richmond, and Antioch. The plants originated from Burchell Nursery in Fresno County.

Most of the remaining plants were destroyed after being confirmed to have multiple life stages of the insect. The glassy-winged sharpshooter poses a serious threat to grapevines and can also damage almond, citrus, and ornamental plants.

An adult sharpshooter can drain 200 to 300 times its body weight in water daily, and an infested tree can lose up to 15 gallons per day. Marin County Agricultural Commissioner Joe Deviney noted that Costco has been an exceptional partner, acting quickly and cooperating fully.

In Napa County, 220 grapevines were shipped from Burchell Nursery, but only 63 have been destroyed, leaving 157 unaccounted for. Anyone who believes they purchased a potentially infected plant since April 21 should not return it to the store.

Instead, they should place two garbage bags over the plant, secure them tightly, and immediately contact their local agriculture commissioner via the California Department of Agriculture website.