N.C. Forest Service exhibit will offer new activities during the 2024 Got To Be NC Festival

North Carolina’s Got To Be NC (GTBNC) Festival is just days away and the annual event is sure to offer entertainment for all ages. Rides, exhibits, parades, action alley, career opportunities and of course, lots and lots of food. These are just a few of the many options that will be on display during the … Read more

‘The typical result is annihilation’; N.C. Forest Service tracks the eastern front of the emerald ash borer

Insects are a natural part of the forest ecosystem. They play a pivotal role in discarding weak and inferior trees, breaking down and recycling littler on the forest floor and act as a food source for birds and other animals. However, certain insects pose a serious threat to tree and forest health. When these invasive … Read more

What’s looming on the horizon: A closer look at emerging forest pests encroaching on the North Carolina border

Nonnative invasive species are a hot topic these days, and rightfully so as they are considered one of the greatest threats to biodiversity. News headlines are filled with stories of emerald ash borer (EAB) causing widespread decline of ash trees, zebra mussels clogging waterways, Bradford pear and tree of heaven choking out forests and feral … Read more

Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but removing invasives feels so delightful

Though the long nights, short days and dropping temperatures may tempt you to stay indoors, winter is an optimal time to accomplish some important things on your property. Many management practices can be implemented during this time of year that you’ll be thanking yourself for doing come spring. Winter is a preferred time to conduct … Read more

Eye in the sky: My first forest health flight

By Philip Jackson, Public Information Officer for the N.C. Forest Service In the more than two years that I’ve held the role of public information officer for the N.C Forest Service, I’ve yet to see or experience any form of free time, down period or boredom as others may occasionally encounter in their respective careers. … Read more

How you can save North Carolina’s trees while relaxing by the pool this summer

Guest author: Courtney Johnson, NCSU Extension Forestry Midsummer in North Carolina brings lots of sunshine and high temperatures, and many people enjoy this warm weather by the pool. But did you know that while you’re splashing in the water and enjoying the sun’s rays, you can help save our trees? The link between trees and … Read more

Keep your eyes peeled for the fall cankerworm this year

There are many types of forests in North Carolina, each representing a unique forest community with a distinct set of species, interactions and processes. A healthy forest is one that possesses the ability to sustain those unique species that exist within it, and the well-being of our forests must be managed, protected and conserved to … Read more

Invasive plants and pests are spreading faster, and they’re getting a lot of help

Now that the months have turned to summer, folks are spending more time outdoors. Whether that makes you an outdoor enthusiast, or simply puts you in the yard, in front of a grill or by the pool, you may notice new tree damage and unfamiliar insects. While many people associate tree damage with weather events, … Read more

Poolside Pests: Checking your pool filters this summer can save North Carolina’s trees

Guest authors: Courtney Smith and Kelly Oten, NCSU Extension As the weather gets warmer in North Carolina, it’s clear that summer is upon us. Many people enjoy what summer brings — the warm weather, vacations and relaxing by the pool! But did you know that you could also help save North Carolina’s trees while enjoying … Read more

Look out for the spotted lanternfly, a bug that threatens fruit and wine!

Guest authors: Courtney Smith and Kelly Oten, NCSU Extension You won’t like the spotted lanternfly if you like to sit under the shade of trees, enjoy fruits such as apples, sip wine or work in the garden. The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect from Asia that attacks numerous plants. It was first detected in … Read more