 |
|
Northern Ohio: USDA Forest Service European Woodwasp Trap Tree Survey |
|
In 2007, Davey Resource Group was approached by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service to partner in a cooperative agreement to conduct a Sirex noctilio (European woodwasp) trap tree survey. The survey spanned 16 counties in northern Ohio where Pinus sylvestris (Scotch pine), Pinus resinosa (red pine), and Pinus nigra (Austrian pine) were selected as suitable trap trees by USDA Forest Service personnel. Approximately two sites were identified in each county, with three trees chosen at each site in which to place traps. The traps were monitored during the summer by USDA Forest Service personnel.
In June 2007, Davey visited the trap trees and injected an appropriate amount of Dicamba®, a systematic herbicide that is translocated through the trees' vascular system. A low dosage was used to create a slow deterioration that would release pheromones and potentially attract S. noctilio. All trees were injected with Dicamba® before June 30, 2007, to give the trap trees adequate time to work.
Davey biologists revisited the trap trees in October 2007 to collect wood samples. A gas-powered drill with a 3” hole saw bit were used to obtain the samples. Two samples were taken for each trap tree and carefully labeled using a paper bag. The paper bag allowed for airflow to reach the wood extending the longevity and allowing the USDA Forest Service to examine the sample. Upon completion of the fieldwork, Davey biologists compiled a detailed report containing a project overview, suggestions for future projects, photographs, and a spreadsheet highlighting all tree, herbicide, personnel, and weather data.
| The Davey Tree Expert Company © 2008, all rights reserved. | 1-800-828-8312 |