[MassHistPres] Who has seen a living powder post beetle?

[Diane Gilbert]

I have been doing an informal survey asking if anyone has actually seen a powder post beetle, alive and well and still gnawing, except in photographs perhaps.

Who hasn’t seen the evidence?  Most of us, if not all, involved in preservation and looking at old houses have. But active?????

I hear historic homeowners use the reasoning that this or that beam, rafter, post, or joist is beyond hope because of the evidence of powder post beetles.  If it’s punky and soft and turns to dust when poked, yes.  But otherwise??????

Any thoughts or experiences to share?

Thanks!

Diane Gilbert
President,
Dartmouth Heritage Preservation Trust, Inc.
(508) 965-7265

newly reappointed to the Dartmouth Historical Commission


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