Best Scientific Article- Don Church – “Asian Jumping Worms or Amynthas Worms: the Next Nightmare” – Fall 2023

Not all “garden worms” are helpful. In this timely article, Don Church shares why Asian jumping worms (also called Amynthas worms) are becoming a serious soil threat, especially for gardeners who move plants, compost, mulch, or soil between beds.

The author notes the issue is already widespread, citing state officials who reported jumping worms found in 13 of 16 counties. He also points out that in Maine these worms are illegal to use in composting businesses and illegal to use as bait.