Managing the oak killer: how to protect oaks from goldspotted oak borer attack

Webinar Description:
The goldspotted oak borer (GSOB) is an invasive beetle that poses a threat to California’s oaks. It has killed tens of thousands of mature oak trees throughout San Diego County, and it is now present in natural and residential areas of Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. The beetles can fly and disperse from tree to tree within an infested area, but can also can travel long distances hitching a ride in infested firewood. Mature oak trees are GSOB’s preferred host, which makes their impact more noticeable and devastating. In this webinar, we’ll show you how to identify the beetles and the signs and symptoms of a GSOB infestation. We’ll review the best management practices for this pest, the pros and cons of each management option, and how to include the integrated pest management program that suits each land manager/homeowner’s needs.

Learning Objectives:
1. Recognize main symptoms of GSOB infestation
2. Understand beetle's biology and how it relates to effectiveness of current management options
3. Learn different options to manage down wood in order to prevent the spread of this pest