NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A 13-year-old federal program aimed at fighting Formosan subterranean termites in New Orleans' French Quarter is nearing its end.
Congress has eliminated federal funding, effect April 15, for the program, which treats French Quarter properties for termites through pest management companies paid with funds through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service.
LSU AgCenter Chancellor Bill Richardson says it's unfortunate that the program is ending. Entomologist Dennis Ring says since the program has been in existence, the number of Formosan subterranean termite colonies has been reduced by 85 percent over the last eight years.
The invasive species is considered the most destructive insect in Louisiana, causing millions of dollars annually in property losses.
