On March 4 and 5, North Willamette Research & Extension Center in Aurora, Ore., will host training sessions (PDF) on the spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii), an exotic and invasive pest that attacks healthy fruit.

Those attending can chooose any three-hour workshop out of the four that will be offered. Sessions start at 9 a.m. Thursday, 1 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. Friday and 1 p.m. Due to expected demand, companies are asked to limit registration to one person per company. The workshops, presented by Oregon State University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will focus on identification, monitoring, trapping, data collection and control methods for the insect.

The insect is native to Japan and has been detected in Oregon, Washington, California, Alberta, British Columbia and Florida. It has the potential to cause significant losses at orchards, berry farms and nurseries. Those interested must register in advance. See the workshop flier (PDF) for details.