A Look at Hemlock Trees through the Eyes of a Conservation Intern
Written by Bryce Alexander, Conservation Intern Edited by Melanie Smith, Communications Coordinator Every time I walk through the local woods, I am always surprised by the number of Hemlock trees that are found in our forests. It’s weird to think though, that these trees are in great danger from an invasive species known as Hemlock Wooly Adelgid, also known as HWA. I have personally observed a large number of Hemlock trees, and luckily none of these appear have been affected by this invasive pest yet. Hemlock trees are an important part of the ecosystems in which they are found, and should...
Read MoreHWA Survey: January 23, 2016
This winter season we will have a series of field surveys in which the public is invited to join and work alongside RTPI, CWC and JCC researchers, conservationists and professors. As we all know, Western New York winter weather can be rather snowy and cold. Individuals interested in participating in surveys should be prepared for the weather with warm clothing and boots. Snow pants and snow shoes or cross country skis are highly recommended when snow pack is deep. Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Survey: Saturday, January 23, 2016 at 9am We will be surveying the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy’s...
Read MoreHWA Survey: January 15, 2016
This winter season we will have a series of field surveys in which the public is invited to join and work alongside RTPI, CWC and JCC researchers, conservationists and professors. As we all know, Western New York winter weather can be rather snowy and cold. Individuals interested in participating in surveys should be prepared for the weather with warm clothing and boots. Snow pants and snow shoes or cross country skis are highly recommended when snow pack is deep. Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Survey: Friday, January 15, 2016 at 1pm We will be surveying the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy’s...
Read MoreMalachite (Siproeta stelenes)
There is not much green to be seen right now in Chautauqua County, but thankfully we have some being digitally shipped to us from Costa Rica. RTPI Affiliate Sean Graesser took this ridiculously awesome photo of a Malachite (Siproeta stelenes) butterfly blending so effortlessly into the landscape of its home. One of the more common species in Costa Rica, these stunning brush foot butterflies are always a pleasure to see if you are there, here, or anywhere!
Read MoreSuccessful HWA Survey
Saturday was our first official Hemlock Woolly Adelgid survey at the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy Elm Flats Preserve. As you can see, we had a great deal of help combing through hemlock branches in search of the invasive bug. Fortunately, we didn’t find any evidence of the adelgid and all the hemlocks looked to be in beautiful health! Our surveys throughout the area will continue through the rest of January and into February. Be sure to check out our events page, bundle up and join us in this important work!
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