Everett Griner talks about the damage the southern pine beetle outbreak is causing to pine trees in today’s Agri View.
Pine Beetle Outbreak
There are more pine trees in America than any other kind. More pines are cut, and the lumber has more 
uses than any other type of tree. But, the southern pine beetle has struck again.
Right now, there is an outbreak in Mississippi. The tiny little bug will attack in great numbers. Although they do more damage in our national forest land, they cost more to private landowners.
They can destroy the tree in a beautiful landscaped yard. So, no matter where they are, they have to be sprayed to stop the spread. If you see the needles begin to change colors, that is the time for action. From green, to yellow, and then to red. And then, it is likely the tree is dead. Cut it and burn it. That is all that is left.
So, if you have pines, one or a thousand, be aware.
That’s Agri View for today. I’m Everett Griner…
Image credits:
(top) Courtesy UF/Entomology & Nematology/Lateral view of southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann. Photograph by David T. Almquist, University of Florida.
(bottom right) Courtesy UF/Entomology & Nematology/S-shaped galleries of the southern pine beetle (SPB), Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann. Photograph by Wayne N. Dixon, FDACS, Division of Plant Industry.
(bottom) Courtesy U.S. Forest Service/Aerial photography shows trees damaged by southern pine beetles on the Bienville Ranger District in Mississippi. (U.S. Forest Service photo)