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On Aug. 5, this oak showed mostly green leaves but with some brown leaves that had not fallen. This was a sign to Goldspotted oak borer inspectors that this oak may be infected. One week later, all the leaves were brown. The oak also showed the typical tiny D-shaped holes drilled by the GSOB. Photo by Jack Clark

 

The heat and dry weather have accelerated the damage to local oaks from the invasive Goldspotted oak borer.

According to Greg Bratcher, Cal Fire’s unit forester for the San Jacinto Mountains, another 18 trees have been identified as GSOB victims. Of these, 11 will be cut down and six were recommended for spraying.

This brings the number of dead or dying oaks to more than 90 since the GSOB’s presence was first identified on the Hill.

“Obviously, the lull during the first four to six months of the year wasn’t a sign of anything,” Bratcher said. “The community must stay vigilant and careful.”

Unfortunately, Bratcher reported that funds for the single-tree program have been exhausted.

Anyone with questions about removing or dealing with infested oaks can call the GSOB hotline at 951-659-8328. Inspections can be arranged and the tree’s condition assessed and confirmed.

Anyone with questions about pines may call April Eugene at Resource Management at 951-659-4516.