Early warning system for invasive pests takes root at Port of Tacoma

On Port of Tacoma property, just off State Route 509, there's a newly planted stand of trees and shrubs.

It includes pine, oak, and crabapple - a dozen species in all.

Joey Hulbert calls it "our early warning system."

A researcher at Washington State University's Puyallup Research and Extension Center, Hulbert helped create the sentinel planting, designed to attract invasive insects or diseases that might accidentally arrive by ship.

Such invaders can cause ecological and economic damage to agriculture, forests, and industries.

"One way to reduce that cost is to detect the issue early, right when it arrives," Hulbert said.

The sentinel planting is the first at a U.S. port, and its proximity to The Northwest Seaport Alliance's Tacoma Harbor marine cargo terminals makes it well positioned to attract any newly arriving pests.

"We will come here every month and monitor the health of the trees and watch them over time," Hulbert said.

USDA Forest Service International Programs provided WSU with an initial two-year grant to establish the program.

The project is a collaboration between WSU, USDA Forest Service, Washington State Department of Agriculture, and the Port of Tacoma.

"They're interested in stopping invasives before they get to the forests," WSU plant pathologist Marianne Elliott said of the USDA's involvement.

Port of Tacoma biologist Kristin Evered helped researchers find a location for the sentinel plants on Port property behind the Fabulich Center, an office building where commissioners hold public meetings.

"We're happy to help with this important project," Evered said. "Being close to an active terminal and a busy truck route makes this spot ideal for detecting pests."

The process of planting, mulching and installing irrigation over several months in 2024 involved multiple organizations, including students from Green River College and members of Northwest Youth Corps.

The Port's maintenance department prepared the site for planting, and Tacoma Public Utilities provided truckloads of wood chips.

The project vision and design of the planting was developed by Dr. Gary Chastagner, leader of the Ornamental Plant Pathology program at WSU Puyallup, who has extensive research experience with experimental plantings and previously collaborated with the US Forest Service.

Eighteen trees of each sentinel species, including cherry, crabapple, pine, and oak, are spread between three plots, strategically distributed to attract pests.

At least ten feet between trees allows them room to grow, making it a long-term planting that researchers hope to use for at least a decade.

The sentinel plantings will also be used to educate community members about how to keep an eye out for signs of invasive insects or diseases.

"We're really excited about this project," Hulbert said. "It's been a dream for a long time."

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