Texas A&M Forest Service increases funding to combat the spread of Oak Wilt
AUSTIN, TEXAS – As Texas enters the most critical window for Oak Wilt transmission, Texas A&M Forest Service is providing funding to assist private landowners in combating the spread of this devastating fungal disease. The agency is increasing its cost-share program to provide more financial and technical assistance for oak wilt suppression, including trenching and red oak removals, just as the high-risk spring season begins.
Using as many available resources as possible, Texas A&M Forest Service is focusing more funding through the federally assisted Texas Oak Wilt Cost-share to help landowners. Funding can be used to offset the costs of physical containment of the disease center. This can include the installation of trenches to break root-to-root transmission (up to $5000), rouging or pushing diseased trees within the boundaries of the trench (up to $5000), and/or, the removal of infected red oaks to avoid the formation of fungal mats (up to $2000).
“The health of our oak trees is a vital component of the Central Texas landscape and economy,” said Demian Gomez, Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Forest Health Coordinator. “With the support of the Texas Oak Wilt Cost-share, we are assisting the private landowners who steward 95% of our state’s forests. This funding allows us to move from reactive management to a more proactive stance against the spread of Oak Wilt.”
Oak Wilt is one of the most destructive tree diseases in the United States, killing millions of trees across Central Texas. Springtime represents the period of highest risk, as sap-feeding beetles that spread the fungal spores are most active, and fungal mats full of spores are more likely to occur. The allocated cost-share funds are designed to empower landowners to take proactive measures before the disease can further devastate local canopies and diminish property values.
“For landowners in the Hill Country and across Central Texas, these trees aren’t just scenery; they are a multi-generational investment and a significant factor in our property’s value,” said Gomez. “Access to state funding and expert guidance helps landowners take the necessary steps to significantly slow the destructive spread of oak wilt and save trees.”
Landowners are reminded that from Feb.1 through June 30, it is critical to avoid pruning oak trees to prevent attracting the beetles that spread the disease. If pruning is necessary, all wounds must be painted immediately.
Qualifying landowners must work with Texas A&M Forest Service personnel to verify the presence of the disease and develop a specialized management plan. Applications for cost-shares are accepted year-round, but must be approved before cost-shareable treatment can begin. For more information on oak wilt and how to apply for cost-share funding, please visit https://texasoakwilt.org/
Texas A&M Forest Service personnel are available to provide technical assistance to landowners concerned about oak wilt on their property. For more information, use the Find My Forester tool to identify and contact the Texas A&M Forest Service representative serving your county.