Beat the Beetle!
The City of Grand Junction, Mesa County, and Colorado State University (CSU) Extension are teaming up to fight the Japanese Beetles- an invasive pest that feeds on more than 300 plants, including turfgrass. Our efforts are proving effective, but we need widespread support to make a significant impact on the beetle population.
The Japanese Beetle was first spotted in the Grand Junction area in 2022, and Mesa County declared the beetle a public nuisance in March 2023.
Japanese Beetle Eradication Efforts in 2026 Include:
- Focused Treatment Areas: The City and Mesa County are concentrating treatment efforts and outreach in known infestation hotspots and surrounding areas to prevent Japanese beetles from spreading further throughout the community.
- City Property Monitoring and Treatment: City parks, open spaces, and other public properties are currently being treated and monitored for signs of Japanese beetle activity.
- Community Engagement and Outreach: Because many treatment areas include private property, the City and County are working closely with residents to provide information, answer questions, and encourage participation in eradication efforts.
- Regional Partnerships: The City and County continue to collaborate with the Colorado Department of Agriculture, Colorado State University Extension, and other partners to support a coordinated, science-based eradication strategy.
How can you help beat the beetle?
Mesa County and CSU Extension Tri-River Area are recommending insecticides with the active ingredient chlorantraniliprole to manage larvae of Japanese Beetle in turfgrass, these include
- GrubEx which are animal and people safe and can be purchased at local nurseries and hardware stores for use on residential lawns.
- Acelepryn which can only be purchased and applied by licensed landscapers.
Residents are encouraged to monitor their plants and turf for the presence of the Japanese Beetles and report any sightings of the pest to the Japanese Beetle hotline at 970-248-7000.
- The borders of the infestation are generally in the area between 24 Road and 27 1/2 Road between Patterson Road and H 1/2 Road. Check the map to see all recommended treatment areas.
- Properties outlined in red are subject to eradication efforts.
- Do you live in the Treatment Zone but haven't been contacted to give consent for Mesa County to complete free Japanese Beetle grub control treatments? Call today 970-902-3886.
