Washington Forest Health Issues in 2003

Drought

According to the National Weather Service, May through August 2003 were the driest months on record for Washington! Precipitation on the east side was well below any previous records. In late summer the wood in dead and fallen trees of 3-8" diameter was drier than kiln dried lumber!

The west side was also incredibly dry with every area (other than the coast) at or below any previous low precipitation records dating back to the late 1800's!

This abnormally dry weather has once again stressed trees already suffering from several years of summer drought. This makes them vulnerable to insect and disease disturbance agents. Landscape levels of tree mortality continue.

How drought conditions correlate with historical activity of key disturbance agents:

Douglas-fir beetle  --   mountain pine beetle  --   fir engraver   --   Western hemlock looper

Current Loop of Washington Drought Conditions