Viewing: N.C. Forest Service
Testing the Waters: Searching for a Tree-Killing Disease Hiding in N.C.’s Streams
In 2004, an uninvited guest was found for the first time in North Carolina when plants infected with the sudden oak death pathogen were discovered in several nurseries. Apprehension grew quickly, as sudden oak death is responsible for the devastation
Southern pine beetle on the rise across the South
Smaller than a grain of rice, the southern pine beetle (SPB) is considered “the most destructive forest pest in the South”. This menacing label appropriately reflects the devastation it can cause, with outbreaks capable of costing millions of dollars between
The health of our forests: 2017 year-in-review
Every year, the beautiful forests of our state are at risk from ominous threats. Native insects come and go in significance, but the threat from invasive insects is only increasing with time. Some, such as the hemlock woolly adelgid and the
News Roundup: Oct. 7-13
Each week we round up the latest N.C. agricultural headlines from news outlets across the state and country, as well as excerpts from the stories. “North Carolina farmers are turning over a new leaf in the hemp industry,” WGHP: (Video)
NC Board of Agriculture approves rules for Animal Shelter Fund
The N.C. Board of Agriculture on Aug. 23 adopted permanent rules for the Animal Shelter Support Fund. The rules define eligible expenses and establish application guidelines for the fund. Temporary rules have been in place since November 2016. The General
Happy Birthday, Smokey Bear!
Today is Smokey Bear’s 73rd birthday, and he is still working hard to get his message out that “Only You Can Prevent Wildfires.” Smokey Bear has been a symbol of fire safety and prevention since 1944. The purpose of the
Variable oakleaf caterpillar has big appetite, poses minor threat (unless caterpillar poop bothers you)
This summer, North Carolina has its own “Very Hungry Caterpillar,” a favorite children’s book character known for its large appetite. This caterpillar won’t eat through various fruits, cupcakes and ice cream as it does in the book, though. Rather,
2017 southern pine beetle populations low this year; few areas expecting increasing populations
The insect that is dubbed “the most destructive forest pest in the South” does not look nearly as ominous as it is. Smaller than a grain of rice, the southern pine beetle is small but packs a big punch. The
Music to Their Ears: Periodical cicadas are loud but pose little threat to trees
This year, western North Carolina got an earful. A 17-year periodical cicada emergence is coming to an end, but is leaving ringing ears and dead branch tips in its wake. North Carolinians in the emergence areas no doubt heard the