Southern Pine Beetle Infestation Threatens Alabama Forests

Southern pine beetles, which can severely damage forests, have reached an epidemic level in Alabama. The Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) reports that the problem is the worst it has been in over 20 years.

The AFC has found nearly 5,000 areas where these beetles are causing problems, with about 191 trees affected in each area.

"This is the highest number of beetle infestations we've seen in the last 23 years," said Rick Oates, State Forester. "We've conducted aerial surveys in 51 counties so far, and we expect to find more in the coming weeks. Other states like Mississippi and Georgia are also seeing many beetle spots, so it's a big issue across the Southeast."

These beetles lay their eggs inside trees, and as the larvae grow, they cause fatal damage by tunneling under the bark. According to the U.S. Forest Service, these beetles can destroy over 100 million board feet of sawtimber and 30 million cubic feet of pulpwood each year. A severe outbreak between 1999 and 2002 caused over a billion dollars in losses for the timber industry.

The AFC noted that counties with significant beetle activity include Bibb, Calhoun, Choctaw, Clay, Colbert, Coosa, Franklin, Lamar, Lawrence, Marion, Perry, Randolph, Talladega, and Winston. The worst infestations are found in and around Bankhead National Forest and the Oakmulgee District of the Talladega National Forest. Many beetle spots also exist on nearby private lands.

The AFC expects the number of infested areas and affected trees to increase. They are continuing to map these areas through aerial surveys, and the results are available online at the Alabama Forestry Commission's website.

"The agency is also doing ground checks and sending notifications to forest landowners," according to the AFC. "Landowners can check the online map to find out if their property is affected and start treatment if necessary."

"Alabama’s timber industry is important to our economy, and these beetles are a real threat," said Governor Kay Ivey. "Landowners should be vigilant in identifying these beetles to protect their harvest and prevent the spread to other areas. The Alabama Forestry Commission is working hard to locate and manage the problem."

Southern pine beetles typically attack weak trees, but during an epidemic, they can also kill healthy ones quickly. Management strategies include cutting down infested trees and burning those that can't be used.