Life on the Dry Side Forestry Newsletter

Newsletter

Serving land managers and owners east of the Cascades.

Do You Know What Galls Me? Cynipid Wasps!

Article

Have you seen those round, ball-like growths on oak leaves? Or the fuzzy moss-like unusual structures on rose stems? These are the results of a tiny parasitic wasp called a gall wasp or Cynipid.

Gall...

What's killed my tree?

Article

Are you one of the many woodland owners noticing continued signs of drought on your property? Drought impacts are complex; drought stressed trees become susceptible to insects and diseases that are naturally present (typically at low levels) in our woodlands. Take these four steps to help you identify what factors might be impacting your tree health.

By Norma Kline

What’s Wrong With My Madrone?

Article

This article briefly discusses the most prevalent madrone disease problems, then offers a broader perspective on the health of this southern Oregon native.

By Max Bennett, Dave Shaw

Galls

Article

Galls are swellings or growths caused by the secretions of certain insects such as cynipid wasps.

Douglas Fir Insect Pests

Article

The most common insects in the drought stressed or dead Douglas-fir.

Diagnosis Table - Douglas Fir, Oak, Pine

Article

Diagnosis tables for Douglas fir, oak, and pine trees.

Why Are My Trees Dying?

Article

Trees all over Douglas County are displaying signs of poor health. Most people are quick to blame insects, but while insects are almost always present in sick trees, they are rarely the underlying cause of the problem.

By John Punches

Abiotic and Site Factors - Interactions with Insects

Article

Many if not most “sick tree” problems can be traced back to underlying stresses that have reduced the tree's vigor, making it more vulnerable to diseases or insect pests.

Summer Irrigation of Madrones and Oaks

Article

Excessive summer irrigation of oak and madrone trees may promote fungal diseases such as the oak root fungus (aka armillaria root disease) and crown rot.