ELKO, Nev. – The Nevada Division of Forestry (NDF) has released a tree-health fact sheet written for residents of Spring Creek and surrounding communities. The paper covers identifying the causes of tree problems caused by borers, bark beetles and sap suckers – each of which are common culprits for tree problems in the area.  Recent outbreaks were brought to the attention of NDF by local residents wondering why their trees were dying.

Ryan Shane, resource management officer with NDF, said that fact sheet identifies specific signs of pest infestation in trees and recommends a variety of treatments.

“Since borers and bark beetles seek unhealthy trees, the first line of defense is using good cultural practices to keep trees healthy,” he said. “Regular and adequate water are at the top of the list for keeping trees healthy.”

The guide also recommends regular monitoring for pest attacks on trees and it includes color photographs with common symptoms of attacks. Once a tree is infested by a pest, tree removal, pruning and chemical treatments are treatment options, based on the severity of the attack and the type of pest.

“Wood from trees that were attacked needs to be properly disposed of or stored in order to break the life cycle of the insects and to reduce the risk of nearby trees being attacked,” Shane said.

Disposal methods include burning, chipping or burying the wood. Firewood should be stacked, covered and sealed with thick plastic that is buried in the ground at least 6 inches around the wood pile.

The document may be downloaded here.

Contact Ryan Shane at 775-738-3454 or rshane@forestry.nv.gov for information.