Georgia forest landowners should be aware of a growing forest health issue. Brown Spot Needle Blight (BSNB) the potential for pose a tangible threat and would drive changes to management decisions for forest landowners in Georgia. We’ve compiled the following information to ensure that you are connected to resources that help you identify symptoms, and provide control and prevention measures for your timberland investments.
- Background: Brown Spot Needle Blight has been known to affect Longleaf Pines for years; however, recently the disease has begun affecting Loblolly Pines. The concern is that typical management of the disease in longleaf stands through prescribed fire will not be an option in young loblolly stands.
- Current status: BSNB has been identified as affecting both young and mature loblolly pine stands in several states throughout the Southeast, including Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, but it has NOT currently been found in Georgia.
- What you should look for: The most common symptom of BSNB is the presence of dead needles on seedlings and small saplings. Oftentimes, the seedling may appear dead; however, there will usually have a green and healthy bud. Infected needles will most often develop irregular brown spots, eventually surrounded by a yellow band, or will initially appear yellow and brown over time with a darker surrounding border.
- What you should do if you spot BSNB: If you believe you have identified Brown Spot Needle Blight affecting loblolly pine on your property, please contact your local Georgia Forestry Commission forester. They will assess the area and take needle samples to be tested at the University of Georgia. Identification and control of this disease is crucial for landowners and forest managers in Georgia to help address the disease and maintain the health of our forests.
Click here to download GFA’s Management Bried on this issue. GFA will continue to work with state and regional partners and provide resources to landowners. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact Director of Membership & Grassroots Advocacy
Tim Miller at tim@gfagrow.org for more information.