Here are some pics from our first 'research field trip' with the USDA to different sites of Asian Longhorn Beetle (ALB) infestations around Worcestor. When the beetle is found, usually called in or found in the USDA scoping operations, the infested tree must be cut and often all the host species (Maples, Birches, 13 total other hardwoods) in the vicinity as well.
This whole area was a forest of Red Maples, completely deforested due to the beetle infestation. While ALB takes years to kill a tree, the USDA clear cuts in order to eradicate the infestation before it spreads to surrounding trees. The above area is being replanted, but clearly this is a long process and many of the plantings have been harmed by vandalism or crowded by shrub species.
Here's the team donning official USDA swag; about to go check out a cut going on at a private residence. 100 year old trees all taken down. This family's (beautiful, stately) yard will never be the same.
Orange means it's got to go...How will the ecosystem take this? What are the effects on other species habitats etc.
After trees are chopped down, they're taken here for regulated chipping, must be smaller than 1x1inch so no beetles survive. Note the thunderstorm clouds, 80 degrees and it poured 20 minutes later...
The chipper...
This guy loves to talk wood chipping and it's a wood chippuh, longhawn beetle, and he's from bahstan.
No survivors here...
The prof. and a cool old granary type thing...
Surprise trip into the trees...Also of note, US Forest Service tree climbers are employed for this operations...What are my post-graduation plans again?
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