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.
This article briefly discusses the most prevalent madrone disease problems, then offers a broader perspective on the health of this southern Oregon native.
Q: My backyard got invaded by gophers (or someone who enjoys making holes). I'm worrying that I might injure myself in the holes. I have tried setting traps, but have been unsuccessful. I heard some snakes can kill gophers, but I'm also aware not to release invasive creatures. What do you recommend?