Thomas Smith, Ph.D., CALFIRE

The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) is an invasive wood-boring beetle that attacks dozens of tree species in Southern California, including commercial avocado groves, common landscape trees, and native species in urban and wildland environments. PSHB spreads a disease called Fusarium Dieback (FD), which is caused by pathogenic fungi. Trees that are FD-susceptible may experience branch dieback, canopy loss, and, in some cases, tree mortality. Like PSHB, Kuroshio Shot Hole Borer (KSHB) is an exotic Euwallacea species that also vectors Fusarium Dieback. Both beetles are present in Southern California but are concentrated in different regions. They are also on the move –toward Northern California. Tom Smith with discuss these detrimental tree pest and what we can learn from the Southern CA outbreak such as mapping tools diagnosis and management…there is no current treatment for these pests, so educate yourself and your staff in this informative  Learn at Lunch session.

The California Urban Forest Council, Sacramento Region Chapter “Learn at Lunch” series provides advanced educational opportunities for urban forestry professionals and the public. Learn at lunch presentations are provided every two months. Sessions are free. ISA CEU’s are requested for each session. Lunch is not provided. Please bring your own food and beverage.Please RSVP to Anne Fenkner [email protected]

All events take place 11:30 am – 1:00pm