Local Landowners Recognize Forest Health Threats

DAYTON – Seventeen participants, including private forest landowners, agency specialists and members of the public, attended a Forest Health Field Day on Oct. 8. Attendees were able to observe, analyze, and discuss forest health issues with field specialists.

Forest insect and disease specialists Lia Spiegel and Mike Johnson shared professional advice and local logging contractors Dan Cully and JimBob Blumfield provided information on logging equipment capabilities, harvest costs, and contracting requirements.

The field day included visits to three separate sites to practice assessing stand conditions and to learn how to recognize insect and disease conditions.

At a stand of Ponderosa pine on Robinette Mountain, the group examined damage caused by the lps beetle and discussed how to prevent further infestations. On South Touchet Road, the group examined trees suffering from root disease and gall rust.

Finally, participants visited a homeowner in Dayton city limits who has a Douglas fir dying from drought stress and a Ponderosa pine infected with pitch moths.

The event was sponsored by the Palouse-Snake River Chapter of the Society of American Foresters and the Blue Mountain Resource Conservation and Development Council.