Oak wilt is a fungal pathogen (Bretziella fagacearum) killing thousands of oak trees in North American forests and woodlots each year. The fungus is able to spread from infected to healthy trees by underground roots and two groups of insects: the sap and bark feeding beetles.
Oak wilt has been confirmed present in Niagara Falls, Canada.
Oak wilt is highly susceptible in all species of red oak, including the northern red oak (Quercus rubra), northern pin oak (Quercus ellipoidalis), and the Spanish oak (Quercus falcata).
Fungal mats found on infected trees are transferred to the beetles bodies while feeding and then carried to other trees.
The Invasive Species Centre is hosting a panel of oak wilt experts from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, and City of Niagara Falls to answer questions about the infestation on June 29th.
The expert panel will include:
Nicole Mielewczyk, Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Dr. Sharon Reed, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
Charlie Smith, City of Niagara Falls
Panel members will share their expertise, next steps, ongoing research, and what the public can do to help protect oak trees.
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