WSDA's "no knock" trapping unwise

The Washington State Department of Agriculture announced Monday they would begin the annual “hunt for pests” by placing thousands of traps around the state without notifying landowners in advance.

WSDA has chosen to avoid contacting landowners in an effort to minimize concerns related to COVID-19. However, given the current climate and the rural nature of some of the locations in which the traps will be placed, it is an unwise plan. In the press release, WSDA noted their crews would be wearing vests with “WSDA” on the back to identify themselves in lieu of contact.

Food delivery, package drop-offs, and other services simply walk up to doors, knock, and step back from the front doorway approximately 6 feet while awaiting a response from the homeowner. Trapping sites are also previously identified so it seems likely any residences in the area will also have been pre-planned. WSDA trapping crews could simply make a phone call to let landowners know they’re coming by with an approximate date of arrival.

Annual trapping of invasive pests like gypsy moths, apple maggots, Japanese beetles, and, now, the Asian giant hornet are important to help control populations and confirm eradication but also to ensure the health of the ecosystems they damage. WSDA encourages anyone interested in hosting a trap on their property to call 800-443-6684 to volunteer.

For previously identified locations, WSDA should reconsider their “no knock” approach in favor of a quick call or knock to ensure no one on either side of the trapping enterprise is surprised. WSDA trappers need the security and safety that comes from landowners knowing they are coming. Landowners deserve the advanced warning from WSDA to ensure they don’t believe their property is being trespassed upon. Both groups will benefit from a collaborative approach to fighting pests and protecting agriculture.

COVID-19 safety is important but so is regular safety in rural areas and common courtesy.

-Lewison is the Director, Initiative on Agriculture, at the Washington Policy Center. [email protected]