One of my Graduates worked in the GSMNP for his intern treating the adelgeid and took those skills private.
It hit WNC in the late nineties. He started his own business, “Hemlock Healers” in late 2000’s
And he has saved so many homeowners the potential loss.
Interesting, one of the systemic injection treatments is a nicotine liquid combination. (Don’t smoke)
The adelgid has devastated Eastern Hemlocks in the Smokies.
Can’t use chemicals in the National Park or get access to the deepest forest areas. Aerial spray, prohibited. Kills so many other organisms.
Eastern Henlock is One of the largest species in the Park, opening canopy and creating a whole ne species composition.
We have a second species, Carolina Hemlock outside the Park that shows little affect, so far.
The Oarj loss is creating massive fuel loads for wildfires. Can not be removed, or prescribed burns.
Another exotic Adelgid (Balsam woolen) devastated our high elevation, Fraser Firs. But hit us in early 70’s.
Out west, Wesrern Hemlock only shows minimal damage.
(I will spare yall all the scientific, Latin Names).
Climate change will create havoc with exotic insects and diseases, heading north as ecosystems heat up.
Our Forests are in danger.