Recent HWA Infestation in Maine

July 31, 2008

In early July, hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) was detected by an observant park employee at Ferry Beach State Park (FBSP) in Saco. To date the entire FBSP, which is predominately hemlock, has been surveyed along with adjacent properties and HWA has been found at low levels scattered throughout the park at about a 1% level. A subsequent front page story on July 18 in the Portland Press Herald yielded many calls and HWA was found by homeowners on 2 properties in Kennebunkport and South Portland.

These findings are not surprising, but we are still delimiting the infestation, monitoring the sites and controlling selected sites with a goal to slow the spread of HWA across the state. With this goal in mind we will be expanding the area quarantined for HWA in the future trying to minimize the spread of the pest and disruption to business. Therefore, it is important that we minimize the artificial spread of this pest through movement off site.

For those interested in seeing the pest in its natural habitat, a hands on workshop is planned for mid August and early fall, dates to be determined. If anyone is interested in attending either of these sessions please contact Allison Kanoti, MFS entomologist at (207)287-2431.

This situation is very fluid at the moment and we are spending time collecting data to get a bigger picture of this scenario. I will send updates as more information becomes available, but if you have questions please don't hesitate to contact Ann Gibbs at (207)287-3891.

More Information on HWA:

Maine Forest Service HWA page

Importing Hemlock

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Quarantine

Division Info

Programs

Boards and Councils

Recent HWA Infestation in Maine

July 31, 2008

More Information on HWA: