South Dakota State University Extension announced on May 4 that a public meeting addressing pine bark beetle infestations will be held on May 11 at the Recreation Center multi-purpose room in Spearfish from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mountain Time.
The event aims to inform forest landowners about the rising populations of pine engraver beetles and mountain pine beetles in the northern Black Hills, as well as provide guidance on management strategies. The session is open to all interested parties, with no fee or registration required.
“Many landowners in the Northern Hills are noticing pockets of browning trees. These are due to infestations by one of the pine bark beetles. This is the time to start identifying infestations and beginning management to help reduce the impact for this year and next,” said John Ball, Professor, SDSU Extension Forestry Specialist & South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Forest Health Specialist.
During the meeting, Ball will be joined by Kurt Allen, Rapid City USDA Forest Service Center Leader and Entomologist. They will discuss current tree mortality trends in the region, expectations for this year’s infestation levels, and practical steps landowners can take against these insects.
South Dakota State University Extension empowers residents with research-based solutions for agriculture, families, youth and communities according to its official website. The organization serves as an outreach arm of South Dakota State University in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources according to its official website. It operates offices in all 66 counties and tribal areas across South Dakota through county offices and regional centers according to its official website, utilizing Berg Agricultural Hall on campus in Brookings as its main office according to its official website.
SDSU Extension delivers research-based information supporting farmers, ranchers, businesses, communities, families and youth statewide according to its official website.
