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UMass Extension's 2023 Invasive Insect Webinar Series Day 3 - Beech Leaf Disease Nematode and Invasive Forest Insects in Massachusetts

While not an insect, the first talk discusses what is currently known about the biology of the foliar nematode (Litylenchus crenatae, subspecies mccannii) causing beech leaf disease (BLD). This disease, which impacts both American and European beech, was first observed in Ohio in 2012, though the nematode was not confirmed as the cause until 2019. First detected in MA in 2020, BLD is now found as far south as VA and north to ME. Common misconceptions and the latest science are discussed. Studies looking for effective management techniques are underway and are briefly summarized. Speaker: Dr. Robert Marra, Associate Agricultural Scientist, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station

Review of the current status of invasive insects in our Massachuestts forests in the second talk. The speaker from the Massachusetts Dept. of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Forest Health Program discusses what they saw in 2022, what to expect in 2023, and some of the projects the DCR Forest Health Program has been focusing on. Learn how to identify common forest pests and what steps you can take to protect our trees. Speaker: Nicole Keleher, Director, MA Dept. of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Forest Health Program
 

Video Publication Date: 
2023