2014 stream monitoring

The 2014 National P. ramorum Early Detection Survey of Forests is underway with an estimated 73 streams to be assayed in 12 states nationwide, similar to 2013 levels.

The survey focuses on high-risk waterways near infested forests in CA and OR and previously positive waterways in AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, TX, and WA as well as waterways outside nurseries that may have received infected ornamental plants in these states, plus NY and PA.

Steve Oak, the National P. ramorum Early Detection Survey of Forests, retired in January. Due to uncertainties in budget and current vacancies in leadership positions, a new national coordinator has not been determined. However, at the National Forest Health Monitoring Meeting held in March 2014, there was strong support from state, federal, and university representatives to continue the SOD surveys and for Forest Health Protection leadership to consider options for identifying a survey program leader.

From the April COMTF newsletter.