Tussock moth outbreak behind Cibola, Santa Fe National Forest defoliation

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Officials say tree defoliation is occurring in the trees on the eastern slopes of the Sandia Mountains as well as the Española Ranger District. Press releases from the Cibola and Santa Fe national forests say the culprit is most likely the Douglas-fir tussock moth.

The release states that defoliation happens within mixed conifer stands affecting Douglas-fir and white-fir trees. The result is trees that appear to be dying but what is actually happening is the moth larvae (caterpillars) feed on the foliage.

They feed on the previous year’s needles, often resulting in defoliation. This weakens the affected trees and may be followed by subsequent attacks by bark beetles that may kill the tops or entire trees.

Officials say they are seeing a rise in the tussock moth population on the Sandia Ranger District. They say the tiny hairs on the female moths, egg masses, and cocoons can lead to tussockosis, an allergic reaction, if direct skin contact is made.

The release states the Forest Service will conduct an aerial survey in the next several weeks to track the damage done by the tussock moths in the Cibola National Forest and along Hyde Park Road. Private landowners who are seeing damage to their trees can contact Victor Lucero , Forest Health Program Coordinator with NM Forestry Division, or via email at Victor.Lucero@emnrd.nm.gov or find updates on the Santa Fe National Forest website .

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