Invasive insect info comes to Popcorn Park Friday

The Asian longhorned beetle was wiped out of New Jersey in 2013. This year, the emerald ash borer is wreaking havoc in six counties. What do we need to know about invasive insect species to get ahead of them before they buzz-saw through more forestland?

This Friday at Popcorn Park Zoo in Lacey Township, New Jersey agriculture officials unveil an exhibit that they hope will answer that question. The drapes come off the display at 12 Noon.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture used federal funds to build the exhibit. They readily admit that it's aimed at children, but that it has valuable information for adults as well. They say that the Ocean County haven for abused and rare animals attracts about 100,000 visitors each year.

Forested areas of Monmouth, Mercer, Burlington, Middlesex, Somerset and Bergen Counties are currently under siege by the emerald ash borer, agriculture officials said.

The display explains how to spot bad bugs and where to send the information. Ag officials say that everyday citizens have been responsible for most invasive insect discoveries in the U.S.