WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST?
Sounds resembling raindrops can be heard on a perfectly sunny day in parts of the Catskills. Gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) has reappeared in central and southern Ulster County. It attacks mainly oak trees in significant numbers about every 10 years. Healthy trees can normally tolerate 2 to 3 years of defoliation. Thankfully, there are numerous biological controls (some introduced) ranging from viruses to parasitoids that now check these pests, which used to be far worse in the 1970s/80s. If you’re concerned about your oak tree, give CFA a call.
May the Forest Be with You,
Ryan Trapani
Director of Forest Services
Catskill Forest Association