Researchers have identified an unknown beetle species attacking blueberry farms across North Carolina, with the state being the first to report this infestation in the crop. Critically, there are currently no insecticides labeled for use against this pest on blueberries, leaving growers without a chemical control option while the damage continues.
North Carolina is a meaningful blueberry-producing state, and the timing is significant — mid-summer blueberry season is approaching peak demand. The lack of a labeled pesticide means growers can't respond with standard pest management tools, potentially leading to yield losses that affect supply at a critical retail selling period.
Watch for USDA or EPA emergency exemption actions that could fast-track a labeled pesticide for this pest. Buyers sourcing Southeast U.S. blueberries should check in with North Carolina grower partners about the scale of affected acreage and any quality or volume impacts on near-term shipments.