Washington Dept. of Natural Resources 2003 FH Highlights

Washington Department of Natural Resources

posted by:
USDA Forest Service
Pacific Northwest Region
Forest Health Protection

Washington Forest Health Issues in 2003

Washington Forests General Forest Conditions	Insects Fir Engraver Pine Bark Beetles Citrus Long-horned Beetle Western Spruce Budworm Douglas-fir Beetle Spruce Beetle Douglas-fir Tussock Moth Western Hemlock Looper Gypsy Moth Other Defoliators
Aerial Survey Overview Survey Results
Animal and Abiotic Drought Fire Bear Damage
Diseases Sudden Oak Death Swiss Needle Cast White Pine Blister Rust

Swiss Needle Cast (SNC)

Swiss needle cast is a fungus with small fruiting bodies that in large quantities looks like soot on the underside of Douglas-fir needles. In severe cases, the needles become chlorotic (yellow) and fall off prematurely. This slows the growth of the tree and gives it a sparse appearance.

Swiss needle cast was found along the coastal areas of Washington again this year, but in the last few seasons, the disease has not seemed to be as severe as in previous years. Several factors influence the severity of SNC including:

proximity to the coast
south facing slopes
valley bottoms

needle with Swiss needle cast spores

If you believe an area to be at risk of high levels of SNC it is crucial to select local tree sources and to favor alternate species such as hemlock or alder.

Additional Information

WADNR Forest Health Home

Washington Department of Natural Resources

PNW Region Forest Health Protection