The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) Pest Program is now seeking treatment consent from residents of Yakima, Benton, and Franklin counties.
Officials at the Yakima County Veterans Program say they work closely with veterans who seek help at the office. Many are looking for cold winter gear and food.
WSDA Pest Program Manager Sven Spichiger says the community is the solution to eradicating the beetle, and that working together is necessary. Reports suggest WSDA is making progress with approximately half of the proposed treatment areas allowing them to treat properties for the beetle.