EL PASO, Texas ( KTSM ) – On Monday, Oct. 28, the City of Socorro along with other agencies, removed the pecan shells believed to be the primary food source for the red flour beetle infestation.
The City of Socorro is working with the Texas A&M AgriLife, the Texas Department of Agriculture, and El Paso Water on the efforts to combat the beetle.
“So, if we get rid of the food source, eventually we’ll get rid of the beetles. In the meantime, the city, El Paso and Socorro have agreed to scoop up those shells, put them in landfill, and burry them,” Commissioner Sid Miller, with the Texas Department of Agriculture said.
A spokesperson with El Paso Water told KTSM that they began the pecan shell removal process at one of their properties on Monday.
“Per recommendation from the Texas Department of Agriculture, crews treated the property with pesticide for about two weeks while tilling the dirt to ensure effectiveness. While the removal may initially cause beetles to spread to nearby properties, it is the most effective long-term solution to eliminate the beetles’ food source and prevent further reproduction on our property. EPWater has been in close communication with the City of Socorro, El Paso County officials and agriculture experts on best practices and removal methods,” El Paso Water said.