Oct 9, 2024
Folks, we have unfortunately had a confirmed detection of the invasive shothole borer (ISHB) in the Felton area of the Santa Cruz Mountains, near East Zayante Road and Graham Hill Road. This is the first ISHB infestation that has been confirmed in the County. The current extent of the infestation is still being assessed.
Invasive shothole borers (ISHB) are non-native beetles that bore into trees and introduce a fungus that causes the tree disease known as Fusarium dieback (FD). This insect-pathogen complex has been responsible for the death of tens of thousands of urban and riparian trees in Southern California.
While this detection is unfortunate, in some ways we are lucky that our colleagues in southern California have had experience with this issue for a number of years and as a result, UCANR and partners have conducted excellent research and produced detailed, science-guided factsheets and guidance on monitoring and management.
I wanted to provide you with the following resources:
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Information on identification, symptoms, and affected species can be found here
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In an effort to prevent further spread and understand management options, I encourage you to take this 1-hour course offered through Extension. In person trainings and workshops may also be offered in the future. On-site consultations are available through the local UC Cooperative Extension Forests Program.
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Please contact me if you would like to join the coordination group list serv to be alerted of news: I will share more information on coordination meetings, detections, trainings, and more to those who are interested.
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I encourage you to watch for signs and symptoms of ISHB in your projects, particularly in riparian areas where box elder or sycamore is present, and in urban settings. Positive detections can be reported to the Department of Ag at (831) 763-8080 and/or to me.
I will be working with colleagues throughout the state to ensure our community has access to the best available extension resources and research on ISHB. If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to contact me.
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