Powder Post Beetle question -- Mesquite

[Martin Lutz]

I have some Mesquite that was cut about 5 or 6 years ago. During the drying process (air dried) I noticed the characteristic little mounds of sawdust that I believe are powder post beetles. The trees were cut in south Texas and moved to Colorado about 4 years ago. there has been no evidence of activity in 3 years. The question: Are they still there? Eggs viable? the Mesquite has been stored outside and through several deep freeze/thaw cycles. Would this kill the PPB's? Do I need to fume it, cook it to 120 degrees for 24 hrs or not worry? I dont want to move it aywhere close to other lumber until I am failrly certain this is taken care of. Thanks for your help.

add: Moisture content currently about 9-10%

[Jamie Buxton]

You might try borate insecticide. Timbor is one brand name. Everything I've read says that it is not dangerous for humans. http://www.pestproducts.com/timbor.htm

[Larry Cooke]

I have some Mesquite that was cut about 5 or 6 years ago. During the drying process (air dried) I noticed the characteristic little mounds of sawdust that I believe are powder post beetles.Martin,

Try reading this link:

http://www.bugspray.com/catalog/products/page158.html

I read it briefly and it mentions: "They all start from eggs, but the time it takes for the egg to go through its stages varies on the species. It is not uncommon for wood used to construct a log home to have adults emerging any time from one to ten years later!"

Larry

[Kirk (KC) Constable]

Clean up the piles and look again in a few days. If they're still active, you'll know.

[Steve Clardy]

Household boric acid, water, and a spray bottle. Give em a dose just in case.

[Cliff Rohrabacher]

Martin,

Try reading this link:

http://www.bugspray.com/catalog/products/page158.html

I read it briefly and it mentions: "They all start from eggs, but the time it takes for the egg to go through its stages varies on the species. It is not uncommon for wood used to construct a log home to have adults emerging any time from one to ten years later!"

Larry

Is that stuff just boric acid and water??
They say it's nmon toxic ti humans The only thing I know that can fulfil such a claim and kills bugs is boric acid.

[Martin Lutz]

Thanks for the great suggestions. The article was really helpful. I havent seen any evidence of activity in 3 years or so, I just dont want them to come back later. I may try the boric acid treatment. I have also heard to heat the wood in a kiln or similar container to 120 degrees for 24 hours. Does anyone have any experience with this?