The Match-E-Be-Nash-She
-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians (Gun Lake Tribe) has announced the discovery of a potentially destructive invasive species on tribal land in Hopkins Township.
The Tribe’s Environmental Department staff identified signs of tree distress, prompting an analysis which later confirmed Beech scale. Beech scale is an invasive insect that can cause Beech Bark Disease (BBD). Landowners and stewards of public lands in West Michigan should know that BBD is a threat to their woodlots as well.
“We want the general public to be aware that we discovered an invasive species on tribal land that causes Beech Bark Disease,” said D.K. Sprague, Chairman of the Gun Lake Tribe. “I applaud our environmental staff who may have identified this problem early enough to prevent further infestation.”
The disease is caused by the invasive scale insect which eats into the Beech bark causing feeding holes in the tree trunk. The insect secretes a white wax substance commonly covering portions, or “whitewashing,” the entire tree. The most destructive phase of infestation is caused by an exotic fungus entering through the created feeding holes. The Fungus infects the trees leading to death and often times a break at mid-trunk (beech snap).
The Tribe’s staff worked with the Allegan Conservation District to collect samples which were sent to Michigan State University’s disease testing facility. Evidence was also sent to Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Forest Health Program. The collaborative effort between the respective agencies detected early signs of BBD in Hopkins Township. The respective staff persons believe the tree disease might have been identified in time to raise awareness and decrease further spread.
Most invasive species are spread by human action. One of the best methods to avoid spread of invasive species is to avoid moving firewood or harvested trees to wooded areas. Early detection is one of the best methods of managing environmental health issues.
The Tribe asks the local community to be aware of the signs of tree disease which includes whitewashing of the tree trunk, beech snap, black secretion from lemon shaped sores, other discolorations, or wilting of branches or the trunk. The Allegan Conservation District will do on-site exams free-of-charge. Contact information is available at www.allegancd.org.
For more information about Beech Bark Disease visit http://www.na.fs.fed.us/spfo/pubs/fidls/beechbark/fidl-beech.htm
