Viewing: N.C. Forest Service
The health of our forests: 2018 year-in-review
Each year, the beautiful forests of our state encounter risks from various threats. The significance of native pests vary by year, but the threat from invasive pests is only increasing with time. Some, such as the hemlock woolly adelgid and the
Tubakia, or not Tubakia? That is the Question.
Recently, oak trees throughout North Carolina are falling victim to a disease, evident by browning leaves and premature leaf drop. When encountering a situation like this, forest health professionals handle it like a detective case, examining the available evidence, ruling
Stressed Out by Hurricanes!
Within the last month, back to back Hurricanes Florence and Michael have created stress on communities throughout our state and across the Southeast. While the loss of life and livelihoods are always of primary concern, many people have also had to
A Bird’s Eye View: Aerial surveyors map timber damage from Hurricane Florence
As one of the top 10 most damaging hurricanes, Hurricane Florence dealt North Carolina a staggering blow in September 2018. As Florence battered North Carolina’s coast, it brought wind gusts of more than 100 mph, a pre-landfall storm surge that
When it comes to incident response, it’s all about Brotherhood
By Carrie Harmon MOREHEAD CITY- “Upbeat but tired”, “Same people there every day”, “Putting in long hours” and “Very appreciative” are some of the phrases used to describe the multitude of firefighters from different departments scattered across Carteret County responding
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
Caring in Cary: Protecting unique hemlocks from a tiny tree-killing insect
Nestled in Cary, Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is home to an isolated population of more than 200 eastern hemlock trees. Hemlocks, primarily found in the mountains, are long-lived evergreens prized in nature for their vital role in the ecosystem and
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