Big Trees and Bad Little Bugs

If you see this type of "blonding" effect on your tree, you can kiss your ash goodbye. 

This is what is going on beneath the bark.

Yesterday I attended an interesting program on the Emerald Ash Borer and increasing damage to other trees presented by Wendy Scribner at the Freedom NH public library. 

Tonight there was a program on successful big trees at the Conway Public Library presented by David Govatski. More on that later in this blog and in a future blog   

Wendy covered how to id ash trees and the evidence of damage done by the Emerald Ash Borer. She also covered ways to manage the problem. In some cases this is being done with introducing good bugs to kill the bad bugs. 

Last year the Conway Public Library's Henney History Room was involved in exhibits and outreach programs in which we covered the role of ash in making baskets, dog sleds and Windsor chairs. We offer these programs for free to local schools and community groups. 

You can see a previous blog on one of these projects here. 

Wendy also covered invasive bug related issues with Beech, Hemlock and other trees at risk.  

We all lamented on the loss of our Elm and Chestnut trees, often seen in White Mountain Art. 

For example, see our previous blog here. 

The Conway Public Library's Henney History Room has an excellent collection of books and information on the subject. 

Tonight David Govatski addressed how to recognize the unique physical characteristics, important ecological attributes, and wildlife that favor old growth forests, and their importance as carbon reserves to help cool our planet. He reviewed several of the finest old-growth forests across our state, where ancient trees are a source of awe and inspiration. Recent research has shown we need both old-growth forest reserves and sustainably managed forests to provide for the needs of society and nature.

For more information contact Bob at the Conway Public Library's Henney History Room.