Over 90 participants attended the TreesSC Spring Arborist Workshop March 20 in Irmo to delve into the pressing challenges facing our landscapes. Experts addressed issues from invasive species and plant diseases to the critical need for robust emergency planning, reinforcing the importance of proactive management and continuous learning within the arboriculture field.
Cory Tanner from Clemson Extension emphasized the critical role of understanding insect signs and disease symptoms in landscape management. While best management tools are essential, he suggested that a cell phone, for its communication and documentation capabilities are increasingly indispensable in today’s industry. Tanner noted a significant concern, vascular streak dieback, which impacts redbuds, maples, and dogwoods, especially in nursery settings. He stressed the need for further research to develop effective control measures.
The arrival and rapid spread of a new hornet species, yellow legged hornets, originating near Savannah since 2023, is causing alarm for South Carolina. Ben Powell from Clemson Extension, who has been tracking the species, noted its high invasiveness, attributed to polyandry and the ability of offspring to mate with each other. Clemson University is asking for public assistance with monitoring for and reporting unusually hornet activity, especially around honey bee hives.
North Carolina’s Avery County Extension Director and Agricultural agent Jerry Moody provided an update on the progression of beech bark disease in North Carolina. He outlined three distinct fronts: the advancing front, the killing front, and the aftermath forest. Management strategies vary across these fronts. Moody also shared insights on emergency response, drawing from experiences during Helene. He stressed the key takeaways for effective emergency planning include:
Clear Chain of Command: Establishing a well-defined chain of command is essential for efficient coordination.
Comprehensive Plan: Having a detailed emergency plan in place ensures a structured response.
Communication: Establishing an internal communication network is vital for ensuring safety and to request assistance.
Reliable backup communication: Starlink arrived in the area when communication lines were not being reestablished in time and going old school with ham radio.
Aileen Gray of Duke Energy emphasized the “Right Tree, Right Place” principle for sustainable landscaping under utility lines. She emphasized the importance of educating landowners about suitable planting alternatives that accommodate mature tree and shrub growth and also discussed Duke Energy’s commitment to monarch butterfly conservation through their participation in the Monarch Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances.
In the final presentation Joel Bickley of Dominion Energy reviewed the specifications of Utility Right-of-Way Pruning Principles and Practices, emphasizing the importance of standardized and safe pruning techniques in utility corridors.
For those interested in expanding their skills and earning Continuing Education Units, the next Trees SC Arborist Workshop will be held September 18 at Harbison State Forest.