Pine bark beetles
Pine trees that appear to be dead and/or depleted of their green color may have a beetle infestation. The tiny insects feed on the inner bark of pines to create tunnels which weaken the tree over time.

The species usually attack stressed, dying, or freshly cut trees and some can kill healthy pines in large numbers. If a tree becomes home to the beetles, remove the affected branches or limbs and dispose of them properly. Once beetles have attacked the trunk of the tree, a full removal is required.

The best way to prevent beetle infestation is by properly watering pine trees and reducing the stress on the tree. When stressed, trees become more susceptible to infestations as they cannot adequately protect themselves. Fresh cut trees in the warmer months also attract bark beetles.

If you suspect a city pine tree is infested with bark beetles, please call (909) 399-5431 or email trees@ci.claremont.ca.us.

Mosquitoes
Due to recent weather, residents are asked to check for standing water surrounding their home. Cans, buckets, discarded tires, bird baths, clogged rain gutters, unmaintained swimming pools, spas, and decorative fountains are prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Property owners are also asked to keep pools, ponds, or fountains in good condition and free of algae growth since unfiltered bodies of water can also cause an insect influx.

Standing water locations can be reported to the community improvement division at (909) 399-5449 or the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District at (626) 814-9466. To submit a request for mosquito treatment, visit sangabrielvalley.leateamapps.com.

Gold Line construction closes portion of Garey Ave.
On Wednesday construction crews began rebuilding a portion of Garey Avenue in Pomona in order to complete work on the at-grade crossing of the former Foothill Gold Line, now known as the L line, just south of Bonita Avenue. Garey will remain closed at the crossing for 45 days.

Work hours will be from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Pedestrian and vehicle traffic as well as the entrance to the Metrolink Pomona North Station will be halted. Towne Avenue, Arrow Highway, and Bonita Avenue will remain open.

“Access to homes and businesses on Garey Ave. within the closure area north and south of the railroad crossing will be maintained at all times, as well as access to the Metrolink Pomona North Station from Arrow Hwy. and Fulton Rd. or Pine St.,” a news release read.

Overnight work and Sunday shifts could be required. More info is at construction.foothillgoldline.org.

Bus stops may be temporarily relocated. For information on Foothill Transit buses, call (800) 743-3463 or visit foothilltransit.org. For Metro buses, call (323) 466-3876 or visit metro.net.