A glassy-winged sharpshooter, an invasive insect that can spread the bacterium responsible for Pierce's disease in grapevines, was recently detected on grape and citrus plants sold through Costco stores in the region. Photo courtesy of the University of California Agricultural and Natural Resources, Jack Kelly Clark

MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - Yuba County agricultural officials are urging residents to take immediate precautions after the invasive glassy-winged sharpshooter was detected on grape and citrus plants sold at Costco stores.

The insect, a type of leafhopper, can spread Pierce's disease, a bacterial infection that is fatal to grapevines. It can also damage almond, citrus and ornamental plants, posing a significant threat to California agriculture and home gardens.

Anyone who purchased grape or citrus plants from the Marysville Costco beginning May 21 is asked to help prevent the spread of the pest by contacting their local county agricultural commissioner's office.

"Glassy-winged sharpshooters pose an immediate and serious threat to vineyards because they transmit the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, which causes the deadly Pierce's disease in grapevines," said Yuba County Agricultural Commissioner Stephen Scheer. "We are asking for communitywide cooperation to help limit this risk. If you recently purchased grapevines or citrus plants at Costco, please contact your county agriculture department so we can safely dispose of grapevines and inspect citrus plants."

Officials emphasized that the plants in question are grapevines intended for planting in home gardens and landscaping, not grapes sold for consumption.

Residents who purchased grapevines are advised to place two garbage bags over the plants and secure them tightly. Those who purchased citrus plants should contact their county agriculture department to schedule an inspection.

Residents should not attempt to return, transport or relocate the plants. They also should not place them in the trash or compost.

Residents seeking guidance should contact their local county agriculture department. Yuba County can be reached at 530-749-5400 or [email protected]. Sutter County can be reached at 530-822-7500 or [email protected]. Colusa County can be reached at 530-458-0580 or [email protected]. Nevada County can be reached at 530-470-2690 or [email protected].

Colusa County agricultural officials also issued a request for public assistance following the discovery, asking residents who purchased grapevines from Costco to contact the Colusa County Agricultural Commissioner's Office for evaluation.