Letter to the Mayor of Portland, Oregon

Dear Mayor, I hope you and your family are doing well. I am sure you're very busy, but with the recent increase in awareness about the invasion of the eastern conifer seed bugs, I felt I had to reach out. Myself and others have noticed a wide variety of negative effects our community has been dealing with due to these bugs.<br><br>We have noticed that these bugs seem to be more than just pests. They are an issue that is affecting us all. We have found them in our homes, businesses, public transportation, and public spaces. They are an issue that is causing stress and discomfort for all who live in this great city. That's why I wanted to reach out to you, in the hopes that we can work together to find a safe and effective solution to this problem. I understand that this is an unusual and invasive species, however, I have researched and contacted experts in the field and found that there are humane, yet effective methods to deter and control them. I have come up with a list of expert recommended methods of deterring the eastern conifer seed bugs. Here's the list:<br><br>Check your house for entry points. Seal all cracks around windows, doors, vents, holes around pipes, electrical outlets, switch plates, and any other place where bugs could enter. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal these areas.<br><br>Keep your house clean, including regularly vacuuming and dusting, especially in areas where the bugs are present. Remove any clutter or mess that could be attracting the bugs.<br><br>Remove any food or moisture sources that could be attracting the bugs. Keep your kitchen counters and sink area clean and dry, store food in sealed containers, and avoid leaving dirty dishes or pet food out.<br><br>Use diatomaceous earth, a non-toxic, organic substance that can be used to repel and kill the bugs without harming people or pets. Sprinkle it around the perimeter of your home, in areas where the bugs are present, and in any cracks or crevices where they may be entering.<br><br>Reduce the moisture in your home, as the bugs are attracted to dampness. Use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air, and ensure good ventilation in your home, especially in areas prone to dampness like basements or bathrooms.<br><br>Plant certain flowers or herbs, such as mint or lemongrass, that are known to repel the bugs.<br><br>Use essential oils, such as peppermint or tea tree oil, to repel the bugs. Mix a few drops of the oil with water and spray it around the perimeter of your home, in areas where the bugs are present, and in any cracks or crevices where they may be entering.<br><br>Consider using a dehumidifier or a bug zapper to help control the population.<br><br>There seem to be a variety of methods, some more harsh than others, to deter and control the eastern conifer seed bugs. If we all work together to create a system of deterring these bugs, I believe we can find an effective solution that fits our values and keeps our city and residents safe and healthy.<br><br>Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I hope that we can work together to find a solution to this problem soon. Please let me know if you would like to discuss this further.<br><br>Thank you, <br>[Yourname]