Viewing: invasive pests
Saving North Carolina’s Urban Ash Trees
In 2013, the emerald ash borer made its debut in North Carolina. The devastation of forests north and northwest caused by this invasive beetle was already well-known, so its discovery was met with dread. The ash forests were dying, and
The Spotted Lanternfly: Spotted in Virginia
And we need your help to spot it here! In 2013, the emerald ash borer was found for the first time in N.C. Now, a mere 5 years later, it can be found in a third of our state. The
New scale insect threatens the South’s beloved crape myrtle
The crape myrtle is a fan favorite in the southern landscape. Across the region, its pink, lavender, red and white flowers can be spotted along streets, in cities, parks and yards. They are loved for their gorgeous flowers and smooth
Thousand Cankers Disease Stays Put for Another Year in NC
From late summer through early November, the N.C. Forest Services’ Forest Health staff, the Plant Industry Division, and cooperators with the Duke Forest set and monitored 104 traps across the state with the intent of detecting the walnut twig beetle
BugFest visitors hear the buzz about firewood
On Sept. 17, 30,000 visitors swarmed BugFest, an annual event at the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh. While many are adventurous and take a bite out of dishes with six-legged ingredients, the N.C. Forest Service and Plant Industry
Emerald ash borer on the move: Four new counties positive for the tree-killing beetle
Across the state, North Carolinians are packing their bags and going on their summer vacations. Roads are full of families driving to the beautiful N.C. beaches, charming Piedmont destinations and the awe-inspiring mountains. But vacationers aren’t the only ones on
It’s all about the S’more
Sweet summertime, fireflies, campfires and roasted marshmallows. They just go together. School will be out soon and camping will commence. When making your checklist for items to bring on your camping trip, there’s one that should be left off the list
And it spreads: Laurel wilt found in Onslow County for first time
Laurel wilt is a devastating non-native disease of redbay trees and other plants in the laurel family in the southeastern U.S. Native to Southeast Asia, it was first detected near Savannah, Ga., in the early 2000s and has since spread
DIY: Using insecticides to protect or rehab ash trees from emerald ash borer attack
The emerald ash borer has become notorious in North Carolina. From its first appearance in the state in 2013, it has already left a trail of dead ash trees in its wake. And it continues to spread, prompting a statewide
Check It Out! August is Tree Check Month
Is your tree at risk? How would you even know? Trees may not need an annual visit to the doctor, but they do need some conscientious care every now and then. August is the right time to see if your