Overview
The DEC Forest Health program is responsible for monitoring the ecological health and function of all of the forests of New York State. The program gathers, analyzes, and reports on tree pest and disease information for forest land owners and managers both public and private. The highest priority is placed on early detection of and rapid response to high-impact invasive species that may threaten the health of our forests.
Forest Health Issues
Learn about the biology, symptoms, hosts, and available control strategies of many of the insects and diseases that can harm trees and forests in New York State. Damage can also be caused by environmental factors.
- Southern Pine Beetle
- Oak Wilt
- Asian Longhorned Beetle (quarantine)
- Emerald Ash Borer (quarantine)
- Hemlock Wooly Adelgid
- Sirex Woodwasp
- Tent Caterpillars
- Gypsy Moths
- Viburnum Leaf Beetle
- Frost Damage
Quarantine: when movement of certain articles is restricted in order to prevent the spread of a pest, disease or invasive plant.
More about Forest Health
Oak Wilt - Oak wilt is an aggressive disease that affects many species of oak (Quercus spp.). It is a very serious tree disease in the eastern United States, killing thousands of oaks each year in forests, woodlots, and home landscapes.
Insect, Plant and Plant Disease Identification at the Diagnostic Lab - Identification of insects, plants and tree and plant diseases
Forest Health Aerial Survey Program - Each year DEC and the NYS Police Aviation Unit conduct a two-month aerial survey of the State's forests to detect possible threats by insects, diseases, human activity and major weather events.
Frost Damage - Freezing temperatures can kill new leaves.