MDC offers invasive tree pest workshop in Columbia May 3

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host a free workshop to help citizens protect Missouri’s trees.  The course will teach participants how to detect and report invasive forest pests including emerald ash borer, thousand cankers disease, Asian longhorned beetle, gypsy moth, and Sirex woodwasp. 

“Invasive forest pests pose a serious threat to the health of Missouri’s forests. Early detection can be crucial in helping to limit the spread of these pests, ultimately protecting wildlife habitat and timber resources,” said MDC Forest Health Specialist Robbie Doerhoff.  

Missouri’s forest products industry supports 44,000 jobs and contributes $9.7 billion to the state’s economy, but the benefits don’t stop there.  Healthy trees help clean the water we drink, and the air we breathe; they cause crime rates to drop, improve recovery time for hospital patients, and can reduce energy bills and increase property values.

Protecting this valuable resource relies on Missourians to play an active role in detecting invasive pests.  Missourians can also help limit the spread of these tree-killing insects and diseases by not moving firewood long distances. 

Doerhoff added, “MDC is committed to helping enable Missouri citizens to join the fight to protect our valuable forests and woodlands for future generations, and this workshop is a great opportunity to get involved.” 

The workshop will take place 6 – 8 p.m., on Tuesday, May 3, at the MDC Central Regional Office, located at 3500 E. Gans Road.  To attend this workshop, reserve a seat by Monday, May 2, by calling 573-815-7901, ext. 3628. 

For more information about MDC's tree health program, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/your-property/your-trees-and-woods/tree-and-forest-health.