One third of Missouri (15 million acres) is covered by forest. This forest is highly important to the state, both ecologically and economically, but is in danger from at least three exotic insect pests.
The European gypsy moth, the emerald ash borer, and the walnut twig beetle could wreak havoc on great numbers of trees. They seem to be headed our way. Actually, according to Perry Eckhardt, Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) urban forester, most experts expect that attack by these pests is inevitable. Fortunately, state and federal agencies have extensive programs in place to monitor appearances of these pests and to try to combat them if they establish footholds.
Continue reading Insect pests threaten Missouri’s forests and urban landscapes