Progress 01/01/90 to 01/01/15
Outputs
Target Audience: Target audiences are the general public, state and private foresters, private homeowners, arborists, town officials, the nursery industry, other states through the Eastern Plant Board, and federal collaborators with a stake in forest health and forest pests of regulatory concern, the USDA Forest Service and USDA-APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine personnel. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Five inspectors have been trained and recertified to issue inspection certificates for international and interstate movement of plant commodities. An additional inspector is in training for such certification. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The information was disseminated through forest health workshops, meetings of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association, the Nursery and Landscape Association, the Connecticut Groundskeepers Association, local and regional fairs, the CT Tree Wardens, the CT Urban Forestry Council, Eastern and National Plant Boards, and presentations to the public. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 51 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, or pine shoot beetle in the plots examined. Emerald ash borer was detected in a forested area outside of the study area in 2012, however, and has been detected in six of eight counties. Defoliation attributed to EAB was recorded on 2,456 acres. Aerial survey for gypsy moth covered 1.8 million acres of urban and suburban forest in all eight Connecticut counties. Defoliation by gypsy moth was recorded on 1,337 acres. About 130 acres of woodlands showed damage from winds and a spring hailstorm. Damage due to feeding by hemlock woolly adelgid was observed on 186 acres. Elongate hemlock scale continues to cause damage on trees in several areas of the state, with 9,150 acres of hemlock affected. Light Brown Apple Moth was not detected in trapping conducted at 15 nursery sites. Over 610 colonies of honey bees were inspected; Varroa mites were present in forty colonies. Small hive beetles were reported in 4 counties. There was one positive for tracheal mites. Nosema was detected in nine colonies. Colony Collapse Disease was not reported. Three hundred thirty three certificates were issued for international movement of plants or plant products. Seventy eight certificates were issued for interstate movement of plants or plant products. No pests were found in these shipments.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
White Pine Blister Rust: A New Strain Threatens Both Forests and Superfruits. Connecticut Arborist XXV: 1-3.
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Progress 01/01/13 to 09/30/13
Outputs
Target Audience: Target audiences are the general public, state and private foresters, private homeowners, arborists, town officials, the nursery industry, other states through the Eastern Plant Board, and federal collaborators with a stake in forest health and forest pests of regulatory concern, the USDA Forest Service and USDA-APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine personnel. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Five inspectors have been trained and recertified to issue inspection certificates for international and interstate movement of plant commodities. An additional inspector is in training for such certification. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The information was disseminated through forest health workshops, meetings of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association, the Nursery and Landscape Association, the Connecticut Groundskeepers Association, local and regional fairs, the CT Tree Wardens, the CT Urban Forestry Council, Eastern and National Plant Boards, and presentations to the public. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Ongoing surveys will be continued. Educational and outreach presentations will be made to stakeholders as requested. Reports will be made to the Eastern Plant Board, US Forest Service, USDA-APHIS-PPQ, and others as per requirements of agreements.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 51 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, or pine shoot beetle in the plots examined. Emerald ash borer was detected in a forested area outside of the study area in 2012, however. Aerial survey for gypsy moth covered 1.8 million acres of urban and suburban forest in all eight Connecticut counties. Negligible defoliation of oaks by gypsy moth larvae was observed.About 1,000 acres of woodlands showed damage from winds,a consequence of SuperStorm Sandy, and about 10,500 acres wereimpacted bya spring hailstorm. Damage due to feeding by hemlock woolly adelgid was observed on 7,657acres. Anthracnose was observed on 3,244 acres. Elongate hemlock scale continues to cause damage on trees in several areas of the state. Light Brown Apple Moth was not detected in trapping conducted at 15 nursery sites. Over610 colonies of honey bees were inspected; Varroa mites were present in forty colonies. Small hive beetles were reported in 4 counties. There was one positive for tracheal mites. Nosema was detected in nine colonies. Colony Collapse Disease was not reported. Three hundred eighty certificates were issued for international movement of plants or plant products. One hundredsixty-three certificates were issued for interstate movement of plants or plant products. No pests were found in these shipments.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Winter Moth-a New Survey Target. The Connecticut Arborist XXIV:1-3.
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Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12
Outputs
OUTPUTS: OUTPUTS: Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 51 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, or pine shoot beetle in the plots examined. Emerald ash borer was detected in a forested area outside of the study area in 2012, however. Aerial survey for gypsy moth covered 1.8 million acres of urban and suburban forest in all eight Connecticut counties. Negligible defoliation of oaks by gypsy moth larvae was observed. Hurricane Sandy (October 29 landfall) caused extensive damage due to toppled and broken trees; conifers were most affected by high winds. Flooding in coastal areas, due to a combination of high tides and storm surge, caused considerable damage to beaches, wetlands, and developed areas. Damage due to feeding by hemlock woolly adelgid was observed on 4,511 acres. Anthracnose and other foliar diseases were not widely observed. Elongate hemlock scale continues to cause damage on trees in several areas of the state. Light Brown Apple Moth was not detected in trapping conducted at 15 nursery sites. Over 790 colonies of honey bees were inspected; and American foulbrood was found in 5, chalkbrood in 51, small hive beetle in 42, and Varroa mites were present in all examined colonies. Small hive beetles were reported in 4 counties. There were no positives for tracheal mites. Thirty-one hives suffered sudden die-off, possibly caused by a new strain of Nosema. Colony Collapse Disease was not reported. Three hundred forty-six certificates were issued for international movement of plants or plant products. One hundred eleven certificates were issued for interstate movement of plants or plant products. No pests were found in these shipments. The information was disseminated through forest health workshops, meetings of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association, the Nursery and Landscape Association, the Connecticut Groundskeepers Association, local and regional fairs, the CT Tree Wardens, the CT Urban Forestry Council, Eastern and National Plant Boards, and presentations to the public. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Victoria Smith, as Deputy State Entomologist, directly oversees the pest and disease surveys. Dr. Kirby Stafford, as State Entomologist, is responsible for the general oversight of pest survey activities. Surveys and inspections are conducted by Plant Inspectors Peter Trenchard, Stephen Sandrey, Jeffrey Fengler, and Tia Blevins. Apiary inspections were conducted by Mark Creighton. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are the general public, state and private foresters, private homeowners, arborists, town officials, the nursery industry, other states through the Eastern Plant Board, and federal collaborators with a stake in forest health and forest pests of regulatory concern, the USDA Forest Service and USDA-APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine personnel. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: There is nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
In general, forests in Connecticut remain healthy. Major pests of regulatory concern, such as the Asian longhorned beetle, or light brown apple moth, were not detected. Emerald ash borer was detected in a forested area in New Haven County. Though they usually cause damage, gypsy moth, forest tent caterpillar, and elongate hemlock scale were not recorded as defoliators. Septoria leaf spot caused minor damage. Since pesticide spraying of hardwood trees was not requested, there were no immediate environmental impacts. There was a cleaner environment, reduced risk of human exposure to insecticides, and no adverse effects to non-target beneficial organisms. With minimal mortality of trees due to insects or disease, species diversity was maintained. Because of the increase in outreach activities centered on Asian longhorned beetle and Emerald Ash Borer, the general public is more aware of early detection of pest introductions to the wildland and urban forests. Beekeepers have been advised to monitor mite levels carefully, and to be aware of resistance to fluvalinate and coumaphos in Varroa mites, and to the threat of Nosema diseases vectored by Varroa mites.
Publications
- Smith, V. L. 2012. Aerial Survey: an Assessment of Forest Health. The Connecticut Arborist XXIII: 1-4.
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Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 51 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetle, Emerald ash borer, or Pine shoot beetle. Aerial survey for gypsy moth covered 1.8 million acres of urban and suburban forest in all eight Connecticut counties. Negligible defoliation of oaks by gypsy moth larvae was observed; damage caused by orange-striped oakworm was observed on 1,345 acres. Hurricane Irene (August 27 landfall) caused extensive damage due to flooding, salt spray in coastal areas, beach erosion, and toppled trees. The Halloween Nor'easter (October 29-30) caused extensive damage to trees and landscapes. Heavy snowfall on trees that had not yet shed leaves resulted in branches breaking under the weight, trees collapsing, and stress on trees that did not break. The northwestern counties of CT were most severely impacted, with many roads blocked by downed trees and power lines. Damage due to feeding by hemlock woolly adelgid was observed on 6,202 acres. Anthracnose and other foliar diseases caused widespread damage, due to wet cool conditions in the early spring and summer. Elongate hemlock scale continues to cause damage on trees in several areas of the state. Light Brown Apple Moth was not detected in trapping conducted at 20 nursery sites. Over 790 colonies of honey bees were inspected; and American foulbrood was found in 5, chalkbrood in 51, small hive beetle in 42, and Varroa mites were present in all examined colonies. Small hive beetles were reported in 4 counties. There were no positives for tracheal mites. Thirty-one hives suffered sudden die-off, possibly caused by a new strain of Nosema. Colony Collapse Disorder was not reported. Three hundred forty-seven certificates were issued for international movement of plants or plant products. One hundred twelve certificates were issued for interstate movement of plants or plant products. No pests were found in these shipments. The information was disseminated through forest health workshops, meetings of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association, the Nursery and Landscape Association, the Connecticut Groundskeepers Association, local and regional fairs, the CT Tree Wardens, Eastern and National Plant Boards, and presentations to the public. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Victoria Smith, as Deputy State Entomologist, directly oversees the pest and disease surveys. Dr. Kirby Stafford, as State Entomologist, is responsible for the general oversight of pest survey activities. Surveys and inspections are conducted by Plant Inspectors Peter Trenchard, Stephen Sandrey, Jeffrey Fengler, and Tia Blevins. Apiary inspections were conducted by Ira Kettle. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Victoria Smith, as Deputy State Entomologist, directly oversees the pest and disease surveys. Dr. Kirby Stafford, as State Entomologist, is responsible for the general oversight of pest survey activities. Surveys and inspections are conducted by Plant Inspectors Peter Trenchard, Stephen Sandrey, Jeffrey Fengler, and Tia Blevins. Apiary inspections were conducted by Ira Kettle. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are the general public, state and private foresters, private homeowners, arborists, town officials, the nursery industry, other states through the Eastern Plant Board, and federal collaborators with a stake in forest health and forest pests of regulatory concern, the USDA Forest Service and USDA-APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine personnel. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
In general, forests in Connecticut remain healthy. Major pests of regulatory concern, such as the Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, or light brown apple moth, were not detected. Though they usually cause damage, gypsy moth, forest tent caterpillar, and elongate hemlock scale were not recorded as defoliators. Septoria leaf spot caused minor damage. Since pesticide spraying of hardwood trees was not requested, there were no immediate environmental impacts. There was a cleaner environment, reduced risk of human exposure to insecticides, and no adverse effects to non-target beneficial organisms. With minimal mortality of trees due to insects or disease, species diversity was maintained. Because of the increase in outreach activities centered on Asian longhorned beetle and Emerald Ash Borer, the general public is more aware of early detection of pest introductions to the wildland and urban forests. Beekeepers have been advised to monitor mite levels carefully, and to be aware of resistance to fluvalinate and coumaphos in Varroa mites, and to the threat of Nosema diseases vectored by Varroa mites.
Publications
- Smith, V. L. 2011. TCD: the Latest Addition to the Alphabet Soup. The Connecticut Arborist XXII: 1-4.
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Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 51 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, or pine shoot beetle. Sirex wood wasp was captured in a trap in late summer. Aerial survey for gypsy moth covered 1.8 million acres of urban and suburban forest in all eight Connecticut counties. Negligible defoliation of oaks by gypsy moth larvae was observed, and damage caused by orange-striped oakworm was not observed. Wind and ice storms damaged 1,124 acres in the western half of the state. Damage due to feeding by hemlock woolly adelgid was observed on 1,773 acres. Larch casebearer was suspected as the damaging agent on 25 acres in Litchfield County. Anthracnose, a disease of hardwood trees, caused very light, spotty damage. Elongate hemlock scale continues to cause damage on trees in several areas of the state. Light Brown Apple Moth was not detected in trapping conducted at 20 nursery sites. Over 790 colonies of honey bees were inspected; and American foulbrood was found in 5, chalkbrood in 51, small hive beetle in 42, and Varroa mites were present in all examined colonies. Small hive beetles were reported in 4 counties. There were no positives for tracheal mites. Thirty-one hives suffered sudden die-off, possibly caused by a new strain of Nosema. Colony Collapse Disorder was not reported. Three hundred and ten certificates were issued for international movement of plants or plant products. One hundred twenty-six certificates were issued for interstate movement of plants or plant products. No pests were found in these shipments. The information was disseminated through forest health workshops, meetings of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association, the Nursery and Landscape Association, the Connecticut Groundskeepers Association, local and regional fairs, the CT Tree Wardens, Eastern and National Plant Boards, and presentations to the public. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Victoria Smith, as Deputy State Entomologist, directly oversees the pest and disease surveys. Dr. Kirby Stafford, as State Entomologist, is responsible for the general oversight of pest survey activities. Surveys and inspections are conducted by Plant Inspectors Peter Trenchard, Stephen Sandrey, Jeffrey Fengler, and Tia Blevins. Apiary inspections were conducted by Ira Kettle. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are the general public, state and private foresters, private homeowners, arborists, town officials, the nursery industry, other states through the Eastern Plant Board, and federal collaborators with a stake in forest health and forest pests of regulatory concern, the USDA Forest Service and USDA-APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine personnel. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: There is nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
In general, forests in Connecticut remain healthy. Major pests of regulatory concern, such as the Asian longhorned beetle, Emerald ash borer, or light brown apple moth, were not detected. Though they usually cause damage, gypsy moth, forest tent caterpillar, orange-striped oakworm, and elongate hemlock scale were not recorded as defoliators. Septoria leaf spot caused minor damage. Since pesticide spraying of hardwood trees was not requested, there were no immediate environmental impacts. There was a cleaner environment, reduced risk of human exposure to insecticides, and no adverse effects to non-target beneficial organisms. With minimal mortality of trees due to insects or disease, species diversity was maintained. Because of the increase in outreach activities centered on Asian longhorned beetle and Emerald Ash Borer, the general public is more aware of early detection of pest introductions to the wildland and urban forests. Beekeepers have been advised to monitor mite levels carefully, and to be aware of resistance to fluvalinate and coumaphos in Varroa mites, and to the threat of Nosema diseases vectored by Varroa mites.
Publications
- Smith, V. L. 2010. Natural Enemies: the Best Hope for Control of Exotic Pests of the North East Forests. Newsletter of the Connecticut Botanical Society 38:volume 1. Smith, V. L. 2010. Chrysanthemum Diseases 101: An Inspectors Review. Horticultural Inspection Society Spring 2010 Newsletter. Smith, V. L. 2010. The North East Forest Pest Survey and Outreach Project: Working Together to Find Forest Pests. The Connecticut Arborist XXI: 1-4.
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Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 51 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, Sirex wood wasp, or pine shoot beetle. Aerial survey for gypsy moth covered 1.8 million acres of urban and suburban forest in all eight Connecticut counties. Defoliation of oaks by gypsy moth larvae occurred during the summer in several townships in Hartford, New London, and Tolland Counties, and orange-striped oakworm caused defoliation in New London and Windham Counties. Severity of defoliation due to feeding by gypsy moth larvae was very light. Damage due to Septoria leaf spot occurred in all counties of the state. Damage due to forest tent caterpillar occurred on 1,900 acres in Windham County. Anthracnose, a disease of hardwood trees, caused very light, spotty damage. Elongate hemlock scale continues to cause damage on trees in several areas of the state. Over 1,400 colonies of honey bees were inspected; and American foulbrood was found in 7, chalkbrood in 11, and varroa mites were present in all examined colonies. Small hive beetles were reported in 4 counties. There were no positives for tracheal mites. Colony Collapse Disease was not reported. The information was dissimated through forest health workshops, meetings of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association, the Nursery and Landscape Association, the CT Tree Wardens, Eastern and National Plant Boards, and presentations to the public. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Victoria Smith, as Deputy State Entomologist, directly oversees the pest and disease surveys. Dr. Kirby Stafford, as State Entomologist, is responsible for the general oversight of pest survey activities. Surveys are conducted by Plant Inspectors Peter Trenchard, Stephen Sandrey, Jeffrey Fengler, and Tia Blevins. Apiary inspections were conducted by Ira Kettle. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are the general public, state and private foresters, private homeowners, arborists, town officials, the nursery industry, other states through the Eastern Plant Board, and federal collaborators with a stake in forest health and forest pests of regulatory concern, the USDA Forest Service and USDA-APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine personnel. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
In general, forests in Connecticut remain healthy. Major pests of regulatory concern, such as the Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, Sirex wood wasp, or light brown apple moth, were not detected. In addition to gypsy moth, forest tent caterpillar, orange-striped oakworm, and elongate hemlock scale caused mild to moderate defoliation. Septoria leaf spot caused widespread damage. Since pesticide spraying of hardwood trees was not requested, there were no immediate environmental impacts. There was a cleaner environment, reduced risk of human exposure to insecticides, and no adverse effects to non-target beneficial organisms. With minimal mortality of trees due to insects or disease, species diversity was maintained. Because of the increase in outreach activities centered around Asian longhorned beetle, the general public is more aware of early detection of pest introductions to the wildland and urban forests. Beekeepers have been advised to monitor mite levels carefully, and to be aware of resistance to fluvalinate and coumaphos in varroa mites.
Publications
- Smith, V. L. Forest Health Outlook for 2009: Some New Threats and the Usual Suspects. The Connecticut Arborist, Volume XX, number 1, Spring 2009, pages 1-7.
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Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Ground and aerial sruveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 153 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, Sirex wood wasp, or pine shoot beetle. Aerial survey for gypsy moth covered 108 million acres of urban and suburban forest in all eight Connecticut counties. Defoliation of oaks by gypsy moth occurred during summer in several townships in Middlesex, New London, and Tolland counties, and orange striped oakworm caused defoliation in Windham county. Defoliation due to feeding by gypsy moth larvae was much less widespread than in previous years, and severity of the damage was light. Damage due to feeding by helmock looper occurred in Windham County. Damage due to forest tent caterpillar occurred on 2,400 acres in Windham county. Anthracnose, a disease of hardwood trees, caused very light, spotty damage. Fungal leaf spot caused widespread damage, with a total of 15,500 acres affected. Elongate hemlock scale continues to cause damage on trees in the southern areas of the state. The information was disseminated through forest health workshops, meetings of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association, the Nursery and Landscape Association, the CT Tree Wardens, Eastern and National Plant Boards, and presentations to the public. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Victoria Smith, as Deputy State Entomologist, directly oversees the pest surveys. Dr. Kirby C. Stafford, as State Entomologist, is responsible for general oversith of pest survey activities. Surveys are conducted by plant inspectors Peter Trenchard, Stephen Sandrey, Jeffrey Fengler, and Tia Blevins. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are the general public, state and private foresters, private homeowners, arborists, towns, the nursery industry, other states through the Eastern Plant Board, and federal collaborators with a stake in forest health and forest pests of regulatory concern; the USDA Forest Service and USDA/APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine personnel. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
In general, foests in Connecticut remain healthy. Major pests of regulatory concern were not detected. In addition to gypsy moth, forest tent caterpillar, hemlock looper, and orange striped oak worm caused mild to moderate defoliation. Fungal leaf spot caused widespread damage. since pesticide spraying of hardwood trees was not requested, there were immediate environmental impacts. There was a cleaner environment, reduced risk of human exposure to insecticides, and no adverse effects to non-target beneficial organisms.
Publications
- Smith, V. L. Forest Health Outlook for 2008. The Connecticut Arborist, Volume XIX, number 1, Spring 2008, pages 1-4.
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Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 153 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, Sirex wood wasp, or pine shoot beetle. Aerial survey for gypsy moth covered 1.8 million acres of urban and suburban forest in all eight Connecticut counties. Defoliation of oaks occurred during late summer in several townships in Windham and New London Counties; however damage was caused by the orange-striped oakworm. Defoliation due to feeding by gypsy moth larvae was much less widespread than in previous years, and severity of the damage was light. Damage due to feeding by hemlock looper occurred in Windham County. Damage due to forest tent caterpillar occurred on 1,040 acres, mostly in Windham County. Anthracnose, a disease of hardwood trees, was not an important defoliator, due to conditions unfavorable
for disease development. Elongate hemlock scale continues to cause damage on trees in the southern areas of the state. The information was disseminated through forest health workshops, meetings of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association and Nursery and Landscape Association, Eastern and National Plant Boards, and presentations to the public.
PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Victoria Smith, as Deputy State Entomologist, directly oversees the pest surveys. Dr. Kirby C. Stafford, as State Entomologist, is responsible for general oversight of pest survey activities. Surveys are conducted by plant inspectors Peter Trenchard, Stephen Sandrey, Jeffrey Fengler, and Tia Blevins.
TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are the general public, state and private foresters, private homeowners, arborists, towns, the nursery industry, other states through the Eastern Plant Board, and federal collaborators with a stake in forest health and forest pests of requlatory concern; the USDA Forest Service and USDA/APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine personnel.
Impacts
In general, forests in Connecticut remain healthy. Major pests of regulatory concern were not detected. In addition to gypsy moth, forest tent caterpillar, hemlock looper, and orange-striped oak worm caused mild to moderate defoliation. Since pesticide spraying of oak trees was not requested, there were immediate environmental impacts. There was a cleaner environment, reduced risk of human exposure to insecticides, and no adverse effects to non-target beneficial insects.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 153 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, or pine shoot beetle, but defoliation of oaks occurred during late summer in several towns in Windham and New London Counties; damage was caused by the orange-striped oakworm. Defoliation due to feeding by gypsy moth larvae was widespread, covering over 251,000 acres, but not severe. Damage due to feeding by hemlock looper occurred in Windham County. Damage due to forest tent caterpillar occurred on over 15,000 acres. Adult winter moth was detected by trapping in the town of Stonington. Over 25,000 acres, primarily oaks and maples, were damaged by anthracnose diseases. Elongate hemlock scale continues to cause damage on trees in the southern areas of the state.
Impacts
In general, forests in Connecticut remain healthy. In addition to gypsy moth, forest tent caterpillar, hemlock looper, orange-striped oakworm, and anthracnose diseases caused mild to moderate defoliation. Adult winter moth was detected by trapping but damage due to larvae was not detected. Foresters, homeowners, arborists and other stakeholders received survey results. Since pesticide spraying of oak trees was not requested, there were immediate environmental impacts. There was a cleaner environment, reduced risk of human exposure to insecticides, and no adverse effects to non-target beneficial insects.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 153 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of the Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, or pine shoot beetle, but defoliation of oak trees occurred during late summer in 3,631 acres of woodlands in five towns of Windham County and two towns in New London County (northeastern Connecticut). The orange-striped oakworm caused the damage. Defoliation due to feeding by gypsy moth larvae was severe, with damage on 64,273 acres. Damage due to feeding by hemlock looper occurred in Windham County on 162 acres of hemlock. The hemlock woolly adelgid and elongate hemlock scale continue to cause decline of hemlock trees in southern Connecticut.
Impacts
In general, forests in Connecticut remain healthy. In addition to the hemlock woolly adelgid and elongate hemlock scale, gypsy moth caused severe defoliation. Damage by hemlock looper also was noted. Foresters, homeowners, arborists and other stakeholders received survey results. Since pesticide spraying of oak trees was not requested, there were immediate environmental impacts. There was a cleaner environment, reduced risk of human exposure to insecticides, and no adverse effects to non-target beneficial insects.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
Ground and aerial surveys were conducted in Connecticut to monitor the health of forests. Trees in 153 plots, located throughout the state, were examined for damage caused by insects or plant pathogens. There was no evidence of the Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, or pine shoot beetle, but defoliation of oak trees occurred during late summer in 1,522 acres of woodlands in the towns of Canterbury and Killingly in Windham County (northeastern Connecticut). The orange-striped oakworm caused the damage. Although this area had been defoliated in previous years, there was no need for pesticide spraying because parasitic flies (tachinids) once again caused the caterpillar population to decline. The hemlock woolly adelgid and elongate hemlock scale continue to cause decline of hemlock trees in southern Connecticut.
Impacts
In general, forests in Connecticut remain healthy. Aside from the hemlock woolly adelgid and elogate hemlock scale, there are no other major pests causing defoliation or tree mortality. Foresters, homeowners, arborists and other stakeholders received survey results. Since pesticide spraying of oak trees was not needed, there were immediate environmental impacts. There was a cleaner environment, reduced risk of human exposure to insecticides, and no adverse effects to non-target, beneficial insects.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
Forest health and apiary monitoring programs were continued to detect emerging arthropod infestations. Aerial and ground surveys of 154 forest plots revealed no defoliation due to gypsy moths and no infestations of Asian longhorned beetles, emerald ash borers, or pine shoot beetles. However, the orange-striped oakworm continued to cause localized defoliation in about 1,597 acres in the towns of Canterbury, Killingly, and Scotland (all in northeastern Connecticut), but parasitic flies (tachinids) were numerous and very active at multiple sites. The pest population and defoliation to oak trees are expected to decline next year. Apiary inspections of 812 honey bee colonies revealed infestations of Varroa mites (70 hives), foulbrood (8 hives), and chalkbrood (2 hives).
Impacts
Foresters, homeowners, arborists, and other stakeholders received current information on the status of forest health and were able to make decisions on whether or not to spray trees. In many instances, spraying was not needed and there were less pesticides used, lower costs for homeowners, and less risks of human exposure to insecticides, thereby reducing health risks. Infested honey bee colonies were treated or destroyed to prevent the spread of parasitic mites or pathogens. The availability of healthy honey bees facilitated the pollination of fruit trees and vegetables and ensured honey production for beekeepers.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02
Outputs
Aerial and ground surveys were conducted statewide to monitor gypsy moth defoliation and to detect emerging insect infestations or plant diseases. Intensive ground surveys of Greenwich, Connecticut also were conducted, utilizing the global positioning system to document examinations of trees, to detect Asian longhorned beetles. Gypsy moth caterpillars defoliated 347 acres of forest in Windham County in northeastern Connecticut and 20 acres in Litchfield County (northwestern Connecticut). Defoliation due to the feeding activity of the orangestriped oakworm occurred in northeastern Connecticut. The hemlock woolly adelgid is present in all 8 counties. There was no evidence of Asian longhorned beetles or pine shoot beetles, however. Inspections of apiaries revealed the small hive beetle in eastern Connecticut. This insect pest arrived in a shipment of honey bees from Georgia. The infested hive was treated with Bayer Bee Strips (Checkmite plus) containing coumaphos.
Impacts
Stakeholders, representing a broad base of citizens, received current information on the status of forest-defoliating insects so that decisions could be made on whether or not to spray trees on private properties. Treatment of a bee hive to control the small hive beetle was successful and prevented further spread of the pest in apiaries.
Publications
- Lemmon, C.R. 2002. Current status of forest insect pests in Connecticut. Connecticut Arborist 3 (3):1,5,6.
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Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01
Outputs
As a part of a forest health monitoring program, aerial and ground surveys were conducted to detect emerging insect problems. In general, statewide surveillance revealed that gypsy moth populations were low, but there were localized populations which caused defoliation at 2 widely separated sites in northwestern and northeastern Connecticut. The redhumped oakworm and orangestriped oakworm re-emerged, after being absent or at very low densities for several years, and caused defoliation in 2,277 acres of forest in northeastern Connecticut. The hemlock woolly adelgid continued to be a problem statewide, but surveys revealed no evidence of pine shoot beetles or Asian longhorned beetles.
Impacts
Arborists, nursery growers, state and private foresters, and homeowners requested information on the status of tree defoliating insects. Surveillance programs provided current information on economically important pest species and the health of forests to stakeholders representing a broad base of citizens and facilitated decisions to spray or not to spray trees.
Publications
- Lemmon, C.L. 2001. Current status of insect pests and diseases. The Connecticut Arborist. Vol. XII, No. 1, Spring 2001. pgs.1-4.
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Progress 01/01/00 to 12/30/00
Outputs
A forest health monitoring program is conducted annually to assess insect infestations and plant diseases and to detect emerging problems in Connecticut. Honey bees are examined to detect acarine pests and foulbrood infections. In general, gypsy moth populations remain low, but egg masses persist in some oak-dominated sites. The hemlock woolly adelgid continues to adversely affect hemlock trees statewide. The small Japanese cedar longhorn beetle, an exotic pest from Asia, infests arborvitae, junipers, false cypress, and other woody plants in southern Connecticut. In the laboratory, this beetle developed from egg to adult in woody plants, such as balsam fir, black and white spruce, and pitch pine. Forest surveys revealed no evidence of pine shoot beetles or Asian longhorn beetles in Connecticut. Inspections of 127 apiaries revealed Varroa mites, V. jacobsoni, in 33 honey bee colonies and detected American foulbrood in 28 colonies. Infested colonies were treated or
destroyed to prevent further spread of mites or bacterial infections.
Impacts
Arborists, nursery growers, and homeowners request information on forest pests, and beekeepers need healthy honey bee colonies for pollination of vegetables and fruit trees. Surveillance programs provide stakeholders with current information on the status of economically important pest species so that proper control measures can be taken to protect natural resources.
Publications
- Lemmon, C.R. 2000. Forest insect pests and diseases. 2000 status report. The Connecticut Arborist. Vol.XI, No. 1, pp.1,3 and 4.
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Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99
Outputs
Forests in Connecticut are monitored annually for insect and plant disease problems, and honey bees are inspected for American foulbrood and parasitic mites. Gypsy moth populations remain low; egg masses were found in low numbers in widely scattered sites. A pathogenic fungus, Entomophaga maimaiga, continues to infect caterpillars, even during periods of low precipitation. Other surveys revealed no evidence of pine shoot beetles or Asian longhorn beetles, but Callidiellum rufipenne (the smaller Japanese cedar longhorn beetle) was found in 12 towns in southern Connecticut. Ground and aerial surveillance programs have been intensified to detect these exotic wood-boring insects that affect a variety of trees. The hemlock woolly adelgid continues to cause decline in Canadian hemlocks, Tsuga canadensis. Butternut canker, caused by a pathogenic fungus (Sirococcus clavigigninti-juglandacearum), was found on 80% (n=563) of 704 tagged trees and is having detrimental effects.
In examinations of 140 apiaries, 79 of 1,397 honey bee colonies were infected with American foulbrood and destroyed. Fifty one colonies had Varroa mites and were treated with apistan strips.
Impacts
Forest health monitoring programs are important because they provide information on rising or declining populations of insect and plant pathogen populations. These findings are crucial for arborists and homeowners who want to protect trees or prevent further spread of pests. The smaller Japanese cedar longhorn beetle is a rising problem that needs more attention. The treatment or destruction of diseased honey bees is required to ensure an adequate supply of honey bees to pollinate orchards.
Publications
- Lemmon, C.R. 1998. Current status of Connecticut forest insect pests and diseases. The Connecticut Arborist. Vol. X, No. 1, pgs. 1-3.
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Progress 01/01/98 to 12/31/98
Outputs
Survey programs in Connecticut check for emerging pests or diseases in forests and apiaries. Despite low amounts of precipitation during late spring and summer, conditions were favorable for the development of a pathogenic fungus, Entomophaga maimaiga, of gypsy moth caterpillars. There was no detectable defoliation caused by this insect during the past year in Connecticut. Gypsy moth egg masses were found in low numbers at widely scattered sites. Infestations of hemlock woolly adelgids, however, continue to spread and are now present in 160 of 169 towns. Canadian hemlocks, Tsuga canadensis, are in a state of decline in Connecticut because of insect damage and recent droughts. Forest surveys did not reveal Asian longhorned beetles or pine shoot beetles. Four-hundred and seventy beekeepers registered 2,368 honey bee colonies. Inspections revealed American foulbrood in 30 colonies from 8 towns in central and eastern Connecticut. Tracheal mite and Varroa mite infestations
continue to be widespread in distribution.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- LEMMON, C.R. 1998. Current status of forest insect pests and diseases in Connecticut. The Conn. Arborist, 9(1):1-4.
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Progress 01/01/97 to 12/31/97
Outputs
The State of Connecticut monitors forest defoliating insects and inspects apiaries for diseases of honey bees. The pathogenic fungus, Entomophaga maimaiga, has continued to keep gypsy moth populations in control. Defoliation caused by this insect was limited to 568 hectares in three counties and occurred mainly on ridge tops in the towns of Naugatuck, Beacon Falls, Rocky Hill, Cromwell, Glastonbury, and South Windsor. Infestations of hemlock woolly adelgids occur in 157 of 169 towns and continue to cause mortality of trees. The pine shoot beetle, a potential threat to white pine, was not detected in surveys of 115 Christmas tree farms. Inspections of 1,316 honey bee colonies, representing 137 apiaries, revealed Varroa mites in 10 apiaries and tracheal mites in 16 apiaries. Beekeepers received information on control of parasitic mites. An additional 26 colonies found infected with American foulbrood in the towns of Chaplin, Groton, Norwalk, Redding, and Windham were
destroyed.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Lemmon, C.R. 1997. New exotic tree-infesting longhorned beetle invades New York. Conn. Woodlands 62:14-16.
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Progress 01/01/96 to 12/30/96
Outputs
Surveillance for forest-defoliating insects and inspections of apiaries were continued to detect emerging problems and to monitor existing infestations. In aeial surveys of urban/suburban forests, trees were partially defoliated by gypsy moths in Middlesex, New Haven, and Hartford Counties. The pathogenic fungus, Entomophaga maimaiga, continued to cause heavy mortality of gypsy moth caterpillars. Infestations of hemlock woolly adelgids persist throughout most of Connecticut (156 of 169 towns). Surveys of 87 Christmas tree farms in 51 towns revealed no pine shoot beetles, a threat to white pines. Inspections of 1,316 honey bee colonies in 137 apiaries showed that Varroa mites and tracheal mites were common parasites in all areas of the state. In addition, 26 colonies were infected with American foulbrood in the following 4 towns: Chaplin, Bristol, Redding, and Windham. Colonies with foulbrood were destroyed.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 01/01/95 to 12/30/95
Outputs
Forest surveys were conducted to monitor populations of gypsy moths and hemlock woolly adelgids,and apiaries were inspected to detect diseases and parasitic mites of honey bees. In localized settings of Fairfield, Middlesex, and New Haven Counties, gypsy moth egg masses and caterpillars were abundant. The pathogenic fungus, Entomophaga maimaiga, caused heavy mortality of caterpillars, however. Aerial surveys revealed little or no defoliation. Infestations of hemlock woolly adelgids persist and continue to spread in Connecticut. This pest now occurs in 154 of 169 towns. Inspections of 1,263 honey bee hives in 149 apiaries revealed 66 hives with American foulbrood, 27 colonies with tracheal mites,and 551 hives infested with Varroa mites. Foulbrood has been controlled, but both parasitic mites continue to spread and remain established in sites previously found to be infested despite efforts to treat hives.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- LEMMON, C.R.1995. Updates on forest insects and disease. The Connecticut Tree Protection Assocaion Newsletter. pp.2-4.
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Progress 01/01/94 to 12/30/94
Outputs
Woodlands were surveyed to monitor populations of gypsy moths, hemlock woolly adelgids and hemlock loopers and honey bee colonies were examined to detect parasitic diseases in Connecticut. Gypsy moths were present in forests, but populations were very low. In aerail surveys, there was no defoliation apparent due to gypsy moth caterpillar feeding. Hemlock woolly adelgids, however, continue to defoliate and kill hemlock trees. Infestations of this insect have spread into 147 of the 169 towns in Connecticut. It is apparently absent in areas of extreme northeastern and northwestern portions of the state. Based on statewide surveys for hemlock loopers (Lambdina fiscellaria and Lambdina athasaria), these insects continue to defoliate hemlock trees in isolated areas throughout the state. Populations of hemlock loopers have decreased in some sites because of the activity of parasitic wasps and flies. Colonies of honey bees were inspected for foulbrood and parasitic mites. Of
the 3,481 colonies registered with the State of Connecticut, 932 (26.8%) were examined by the State Bee inspector. American foulbrood was found in five colonies, and the honey bees were destroyed. Tracheal mites and Varroa mites continue to parasitize honey bees despite efforts by beekeepers to treat colonies with registered pesticides. Sixteen of 49 apiaries were found to have either or both parasitic mites.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- MAGNARELLI, L.A. 1994. Monitoring forest insect pests in Connecticut. The Connecticut Arborist. Spring issue (Vol. 5, No. 1).
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Progress 01/01/93 to 12/30/93
Outputs
Statewide surveys were conducted to locate infestations of gypsy moths, hemlock woolly adelgids, and hemlock loopers. Gypsy moth populations remained low. Of the 127,201 hectares of forests surveyed, egg masses were found at densities of less than 5 per hectare in widely scattered sites. The majority of towns visited had no egg masses. In aerial surveys of woodlands during July, there was no defoliation due to gypsy moths. Of the 169 towns in Connecticut, 131 (77.5%) towns are infested with Hemlock woolly adelgids. Defoliation due to these insects was extensive, particularly in southern and central Connecticut. Hemlock loopers infested trees in several areas of northern, southcentral and southwestern portions of the state, but parasites and predators (Ichneumonidae and Tachinidae) have been attacking hemlock looper larvae and pupae. Honey bees continue to be parasitized by tracheal and Varroa mites. Tracheal mites were found in 11 of 23 towns and have now spread to at
least 35 towns in all eight counties. Varroa mites occur in at least 21 towns in 7 of 8 counties. Mite infestations were treated with menthol or Apistan strips.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- NO PUBLICATIONS REPORTED THIS PERIOD.
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Progress 01/01/92 to 12/30/92
Outputs
To monitor populations of gypsy moths and to determine the extent of defoliation, statewide surveys were conducted. Of the 160,961 hectares of forests surveyed, 1,256 hectares (0.8%) were infested with egg masses. Aerial surveys, conducted during July, revealed light to moderate defoliation of 20,062 hectares in 20 towns located in western and central Connecticut (Hartford, Litchfield, and Fairfield Counties). A parasitic fungus, Entomophaga maimaiga, continued to kill gypsy moth caterpillars and prevented more extensive defoliation. Tracheal mites and Varroa mites continue to spread in honey bee populations. The former occur in at least 32 towns, while the latter are present in at least 16 towns. Sixty apiaries were surveyed utilizing Apistan strips. Varroa jacobsoni was found at 8 new locations in Fairfield, Litchfield, New London, Tolland and Windham Counties. Despite treatments with menthol crystals and Apistan strips, infestations of both mite species could not be
totally eradicated. A new insect pest has been found defoliating Eastern hemlock trees. Hemlock loopers caused defoliation in at least five widely scattered locations: Barkhamsted, Washington Depot, Newtown, Colchester, and East Haddam. Multiple species of loopers occur at these sites, but natural parasitic wasps (Ichneumonidae) and flies (Tachinidae) have been attacking looper caterpillars and pupae.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- LEMMON, C.R. and PILYPIW, H.M. 1992. Degradation of diazinon, chloropyrifos, isofenphos, and pendimethalin in grass and compost. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 48:409-415.
- LEMMON, C.R. 1992. Two species of parasitic mites infest honey bees in Connecticut. Frontiers of Plant Science 44(2):7-8.
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Progress 01/01/91 to 12/30/91
Outputs
Statewide surveys were conducted to monitor gypsy moths and to determine the geographic distribution of American foulbrood and acarine pests of honey bees. A total of 116,654 hectares of forests were surveyed for gypsy moth egg masses, and 10,216 hectares in Western and northcentral Connecticut were found to be infested. Aerial surveys, conducted during July, revealed light to moderate defoliation of hardwood trees in 70,630 hectares of 55 towns located in Fairfield, Litchfield, and Hartford Counties. A parasitic fungus, Entomophaga maimaiga, continued to kill gypsy moth caterpillars at widely scattered sites and prevented more severe defoliation. To detect diseases and acarine parasites of honey bees, 354 apiaries were visited, 1,603 hives were opened, and samples of honey bees were examined in the laboratory. Thirty nine colonies were infected with American foulbrood in the following towns: Thompson, Bloomfield, Hebron, Lebanon, Killingly, Canterbury, Griswold,
Ashford, Newtown, Norwich, and Voluntown. All honey bees in these colonies were killed, and hive equipment was sterilized. Tracheal mites were discovered in 16 towns scattered throughout the state, and infested colonies were treated with menthol crystals. Seven new infestations of Varroa mites were found in the Towns of North Stonington, Voluntown, Sterling, Thompson, Tolland, Thomastown, and Newtown.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- LEMMON, C.R. and PYLYPIW, H.M. (In Press). Degradation of diazinon, chloropyrifos, isofenphos, and pendimethalin in grass and compost. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol.
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Progress 01/01/90 to 12/30/90
Outputs
Statewide surveys were conducted to determine the geographic distribution of gypsy moths and acarine parasites of honey bees. Gypsy moth egg masses were present in the following four counties: Fairfield, New Haven, Litchfield, and Hartford. Of the 68,736 hectares of forest surveyed, 5,159 (7.5%) were infested with egg masses. Following egg hatch and caterpillar feedings, aerial surveys were conducted during July of 1990 to determine the extent of defoliation. There was partial or moderate defoliation of hardwoods (mainly oaks) in 25,735 hectares of forests in western Connecticut. Defoliation was less than expected because a parasitic fungus, Entomophaga maimaiga, killed caterpillars at numerous sites. To determine if tracheal mites (Acarpais woodi) parasitize honey bees, 68,709 specimens were collected and microscopically examined. Tracheal mites parasitized honey bees in 14 widely separated towns; prevalence of parasitism ranged from 1% to 52% per infested
colony. Accordingly, all colonies within a 4.8 kilometer radius of an infested apiary were inspected and treated with menthol to suppress or eradicate mites. There were no evidence of the external parasitic mite, Varroa jacobsoni, in routine surveys conducted during the spring and summer. However, this mite was discovered by a beekeeper in Newtown, Connecticut during November. Varroa jacobsoni infestations were subsequently confirmed in 15 other colonies owned by this beekeeper and were treated with Apistan.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- NO PUBLICATIONS REPORTED THIS PERIOD.
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