2023 Invasive Insect Webinar Series: Day 3 - Beech Leaf Disease, Invasive Forest Insects in MA

Beech Leaf Disease: and the Newly Described Nematode That Causes It
Dr. Robert Marra, Associate Agricultural Scientist, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station
While not an insect, Dr. Marra 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 Massachusetts in 2020, BLD is now found as far south as Virginia and north to Maine. Common misconceptions and the latest science are discussed. Studies looking for effective management techniques are underway and are briefly summarized.
Invasive Forest Insects in Massachusetts
Nicole Keleher, Director, MA Dept. of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Forest Health Program
A review of the current status of invasive insects in our Massachusetts forests and a discussion of what the MA Dept. of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) 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 can be taken to protect our trees.