U.S. federal budget announcements or congressional appropriations

U.S. Eradicates 'Murder Hornets,' Largest Wasps, After Five Years and $750,000 Investment

Dec 25, 2024, 04:01 PM

The United States has officially eradicated the Asian giant hornet, commonly referred to as 'murder hornets,' marking a significant achievement for agriculture and ecosystems. This announcement was made by the U.S. and Washington Departments of Agriculture, five years after the invasive species was first sighted in Washington state. The eradication effort received a federal investment of $750,000, secured by Representative DelBene, which contributed to the successful removal of the species that posed a threat to native pollinators. Experts in entomology have expressed their satisfaction with this outcome, noting the rarity of such victories against invasive insects.