As the agricultural weekly, Capital Press, just reported (Tree-damaging caterpillars increase in Spokane County), we are seeing more forest defoliation (loss of leaves) in Eastern Washington from the Douglas-fir tussock moth. It’s a cyclical problem, but the damage during up cycles (two to four years) can be significant, especially in our forests where trees face many other insect and disease problems described in the recent Forest Health Highlights. Up to 40 percent of the trees in affected stands can be killed during outbreaks.
Damage from the moths has been most apparent in Spokane County, with Mica Peak, Tekoa Mountain, and Gelbert Mountain among the most affected areas. Forests across the border in Idaho are also affected.
If you see one these fellas (see photo), avoid handling it. The hairs of tussock moth caterpillars are a skin irritant. If you own land in eastern Washington with trees that might be susceptible (Douglas-fir and grand fir), a July 28 DNR news release describes steps to reduce the problem.
Get advice and assistance from the DNR Forest Stewardship Program.
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EAR TO THE GROUND WITH DNR & COMMISSIONER FRANZ 