Don't be alarmed by the Formosan termites scare

The scare about Formosan termites destroying your house due to New Orleans-originated mulch is not as bad as it sounds. The mulching process generally is destructive to the termites plus industry standards and a quarantine should provide protection if you buy from a reputable source. Railroad ties are a more likely problem. This termite has been in Tarrant County since 1995.

Here is an excellent "set the story straight" article from Texas A&M thanks to NeilSperry.com which includes treatment information should you spot one of the yellow orange-headed soldiers.

Here is the Snopes.com explanation. with additional links. Snopes.com is a good place to check any time you get an urgent, scary email.

3-9-08 www.wfaa.com has a story about this and reports "Texans wondering whether a bug is a Formosan termite should put it in alcohol and call either the agriculture department at 1-800-835-5832 or their local extension agent."