Check trees for invasive insects and diseases

Officials from the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, Washington State Department of Agriculture and the Washington Invasive Species Council are asking the public to check their trees, water features and other outdoor fixtures this month for invasive pests as part of National Tree Check Month.

August is the ideal time for residents to make a habit of checking for harmful bugs and diseases on their properties and in public spaces, because it is often when the visible impacts of those pests become most obvious.

“We have a forest health crisis in Washington and we know that outbreaks of invasive insects and diseases are one of the leading threats to the long-term health of our forests,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. “Our all lands, all hands approach to forest health means we need everyone pitching in to help protect our forested lands from invasive pests.”

Taking a few minutes out of one’s day to inspect a backyard or park can help local and state officials limit the tree mortality inflicted across Washington by invasive insects and new diseases.

“If you already exercise outdoors, walk your dog, or take your kids out to play, try adding a quick check of nearby trees for potential pests,” said DNR Urban and Community Forestry Program Manager Ben Thompson. “With kids, you can even turn it into a game. Challenge them to see how many different insects they can find. Kids are great observers; insects also fascinate many children. The reporting app makes it easy to help them file a report.”

People who suspect they have found an invasive insect or disease should submit a report and detailed photographs to the WISC mobile app or web portal. Scientists review submissions and can help connect those with confirmed pests to resources that can help address the infestation.

Private owners of non-industrial forests in Washington may be eligible for financial assistance administered by DNR for fuels reduction and other forms of forest management.

Keep an especially keen eye out for the following five invasive pests:

• Asian Longhorned Beetle:

This wood-boring beetle attacks many hardwood trees, including maples, birches and willows. It feeds inside trees during its larval stage and then chews its way out as an adult. There has not been a confirmed sighting in Washington.

• Asian Spongy Moth: Formerly known as the Asian gypsy moth, these insects lay dark brown egg masses on everything from tree trunks to lawn furniture. Many tree species play host to this insect, which can completely defoliate trees during its larvae stage.

• Emerald Ash Borer: This small, green, wood-boring beetle is one of the most destructive forest pests in the United States. It attacks and kills true ash trees with alarming efficiency. Adults emerge from infected trees by creating distinctive D-shaped exit holes.

• Sooty Bark Disease: A fungus named for the distinctive sooty fungal structures that grow where bark has flaked off infected trees, this disease also causes branch dieback and leaf wilting. Host trees include bigleaf maple, red maple, sycamore maple and horse chestnut.

• Spotted Lanternfly: When not flying, this insect sports black spots on pinkish wings. It feeds on sap from many tree species, including those that grow fruits such as apples, cherries, grapes and plums. It also feeds on hops.

Source: Washington DNR