Contra Costa warns of invasive sharpshooter on Costco grapevines

Contra Costa County warns that grapevines sold at several Costco stores may be infested with the glassy-winged sharpshooter, an invasive leafhopper that can spread Pierce's disease and threaten wine crops. Consumers who bought grapevines after April 21 should contact the county for a pickup, keep plants in their original pots, and avoid moving or disposing of them. Unsold inventory has been destroyed; the issue is tied to shipments from Burchell Nursery and affects multiple counties. The insect is not dangerous to humans or pets.