Science Lecture: The Southern Pine Beetle Community Project and Other Emerging Forest Pests in New York

7:00–8:30 pm

The southern pine beetle (SPB) is an invasive insect native to southeastern North America that is responsible for the mortality of thousands of pitch pine trees in New York State. To better understand SPB’s ecology north of its native range, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has been researching what drives its populations in different hard pine ecosystems, including at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve.

Natural predators and competitors help control and limit invasive insect infestations. Our research suggests that the Albany Pine Bush Preserve may support thriving communities of these insects through prescribed burning and forest thinning. These forest management techniques may have broader implications as climate change continues to push southern species northward.

The DEC’s Forest Health Research Lab is also investigating other emerging pests that threaten New York’s forests, including red pine scale, elm zigzag sawfly, and redbay ambrosia beetle. Join us to learn about these threats, the research being conducted to better understand them, and how public awareness helps the DEC locate new infestations, assess their impacts, and implement management strategies when necessary.

Liam Somers has worked as the Entomologist at NYS DEC’s Forest Health Research Lab for over 8 years, conducting research on native and invasive tree pests and providing diagnostic support and invertebrate identification for the public.

Suitable for tweens, teens, and adults. This lecture is offered in a hybrid format.

In person: Reserve your tickets below.
Virtual: Click here to get a link.

Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center
195 New Karner Road, Suite 1
Albany, New York

From I-87, take exit 2W (Rt 5 West, Central Avenue). Follow Rt 5 for about 2 miles, then turn left onto Rt 155 (New Karner Rd). Continue on Rt 155 for about 1.2 miles. The Discovery Center is on the left at 195 New Karner Road.

(518) 456-0655