Heather Leff

UMass Extension is a go-to resource for the latest news on what’s happening with our trees.  If you’re not already receiving updates, a subscription to the UMass GreenInfo email list is free and will keep you informed about new publications, educational opportunities, pest alerts, current research at UMass, and important updates to their web site.

The UMass GreenInfo email list is linked to the popular Landscape Message. This week’s message, June 17, 2016,  includes more on the white pine and gypsy moth issues, among other topics. By joining the list, you will receive notification in your email whenever a new Landscape Message is posted. Highly recommended!

Thank you to our colleagues in Connecticut for this link to more information about the white pine decline and also about this spring’s outbreak of gypsy moth.

During the spring of 2016, a dramatic decline of eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) has been observed throughout southern New England. MTWFA has been receiving calls and offers this link to a special report by Nicholas J. Brazee, Ph.D., Plant Pathologist at the UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab on needle browning and canopy dieback of this key species.  In some cases, only a few main branches are symptomatic whereas on other trees, the entire canopy exhibits the symptoms. Dr. Brazee’s article was posted in the UMass Extension Landscape Message for June 3, 2016 under Woody Ornamentals: Diseases.

Join us for this fourth meeting of the Western Massachusetts Tree Wardens, a sub-group of the Massachusetts Tree Wardens’ and Foresters’ Association.  Rick Harper of UMass will present Planting to Promote Tree Health and Prevent Pests, followed after dinner by an outdoor, hands-on demonstration. Meet and network with tree wardens, tree companies, and utility arborists from western Massachusetts. Online registration is now available. To register by mail or fax, use the registration brochure. Please note that advance reservations are required. Continuing education credits will be available: ISA (2) and MCA (1).

Registration is now available for this repeat of our popular workshop on successful tree planting. In our effort to spread the word around geographically, this time we meet in Needham, on Tuesday, May 17.  Complete the brochure and fax, email or mail it to sign up now!