This past week RTPI staff, JCC faculty and a number of JCC students conducted surveys in two locations looking specifically for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid or HWA. We are happy to report negative findings for both our survey locations in near Randolph, NY and Warren, PA. In both locations we surveyed, the Hemlocks appeared healthy and free of pests or disease.
Becky Nystrom, Professor of Biology, checking an Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Adelges tsugae)
Our survey efforts are contributing to a large project being led by the US Forest Service and the Nature Conservancy, who have prioritized survey locations within the High Allegheny Plateau ecoregion. Surveys are to be conducted 1-2 times per year between the months of November and March so that if HWA is found it is not accidentally spread. This coming fall/winter we will be returning to our survey sites to continue monitoring for this destructive invasive pest. Anyone interested in learning more about HWA or wish to join us in contributing to this important project please let us know!
Headed down the trail to check the health of the Hemlock trees
Elyse Henshaw
Conservation Technician
Photos © Elyse Henshaw
