At HORIZON we take the health of our forests very seriously. Our forests are our future. Like all things in nature, there are numerous challenges that can impact the woodlot's strength. One of the big concerns is damage caused by BUGS. We encourage you to check out the links included here. There is a wealth of information to help with the understanding and identification of these pests. One of the most user friendly sites we've found: hungrypests.com
A quick run-down of a few of the critters causing the most concern here in NW Pennsylvania:
The European Gypsy Moth has been damaging USA forests since its introduction to Massachusetts
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| Gypsy Moths and Egg Masses |
way back in 1869. Scientists at the time dreamed of hybridizing a healthier, stronger species of a silk producing moth that could compete with the Silkworm Moth. Gypsy Moths were brought over from Europe as part of the experiment. The moths never did create silk, but today they continue to create havoc on our American hardwoods. The Gypsy Moth's caterpillar stage is devastating for the 300 + species of trees and shrubs that it chews its way through. A voracious appetite effectively defoliates trees creating easy entry for disease and other pests. For some good photos of the Gypsy Moth throughout its life stages. : www.gypsymothalert.com
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| Emerald Ash Borer |
The Emerald Ash Borer is a relative newcomer to the USA. Michigan is credited with hosting the arrival of the first EAB in 2002. It is suspected that the first bug traveled from its native Asia in the recesses of wooden packing crates. The Borer's destruction is limited to the Ash species, but it has quickly spread to 15 states and is credited with killing tens of millions of trees. Pennsylvania is among the many states in the northeast that has been heavily impacted by the Emerald Ash Borer. Want to learn more? stopthebeetle.info
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| Asian Longhorned Beetle |
Asian Longhorned Beetles are making their move in the
northeastern US. After their initial arrival in Brooklyn NY in 1996, they have set up camp in states surrounding Pennsylvania, but to date have not yet been identified on our home turf. We are keeping a careful eye out for them. They are larger and move more slowly than the Emerald Ash Borer which should make them easier to spot. Their potential for forest destruction is enormous. For tons of info (and a really creepy but cool animation of a beetle) take a look ...www.beetlebusters.info
So, what are we doing about all this? Staying on the alert, complying with the USDA regulations and making sure our APHIS contact (USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) inspects our material and completes the proper paper work before we move any regulated wood. The good news is that any wood going through our kiln drying process is subjected to temperatures high enough to kill any suspect insects, eggs or bacteria.
What can you do to help? Educate yourself about these nasty critters. Review the sites linked in this article and learn what these guys look like. One simple rule to help stop the spread - NEVER MOVE FIREWOOD! Burn it in the same county it is harvested and keep the bugs from moving to a new home. Insect infestations are an ongoing battle, we must keep our guard up!
