CADILLAC — With Missaukee County under a fir tree quarantine due to an infestation of balsam woolly adelgid, we talked to North Country Cooperative Invasive Species Management about the reasons behind the order.
North Country CISMA was formed in 2015 and covers Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Missaukee, Osceola and Wexford Counties. They help coordinate government agencies, conservation districts, businesses, nonprofits and concerned citizens to share resources and expertise to effectively manage invasive species.
Balsam woolly adelgid infestation causes fir trees to slowly rot, which decreased the number of trees in the supply chain.
Missaukee County touts itself as the Christmas tree capital of the world and with the season less than three months away, tree farmers are urged to be on the lookout to limit the spread. While it’s easier to spot the white infestation on the green trees without snow, it’s important to keep an eye out all year long.
“The pest can be identified over the winter,” said Zach Peklo, North Country Cooperative Invasive Species Management area coordinator. “They’ll look like small cottony tufts on the trunk of the tree.”
MDARD wants to remind tree farmers to also restrict yard waste, firewood and other nursery stock so the quarantine covers all bases.
