Southern Pine Beetle Infestation Spikes in Alabama, Threatening Timber Industry

Disclosure: State of Alabama-based writer. This article is a work from cited sources for informational purposes and is used with permission. No affiliate links are included.

(Alabama)- As of August 22, 2024, the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) has identified nearly 5,000 Southern pine beetle (SPB) spots across the state, with an alarming average of 191 dead pine trees per spot. Experts expect both the number of SPB spots and affected trees to rise as summer continues, posing a serious threat to Alabama’s valuable timber industry.

Governor Kay Ivey acknowledged the danger posed by the SPB surge by saying, “Alabama’s timber industry is a driver of our economy, and these pine beetles can pose a real threat. Landowners should take care to identify these beetles to protect their own harvest, as well as to help prevent the spread to other timber.”

Photo byInsect Images Organization

State Forester Rick Oates also noted the unprecedented nature of this year’s outbreak. “Unfortunately, this is the highest number of beetle spots we’ve experienced in the state in the last 23 years. The agency has conducted aerial surveys in 51 counties so far, with more counties anticipated over the next couple weeks,” Oates said. He added that the infestation isn’t just a problem for Alabama, as both Mississippi and Georgia are grappling with similar outbreaks.

Several Alabama counties have been hit particularly hard, with more than 100 SPB spots detected in Bibb, Calhoun, Choctaw, Clay, Colbert, Coosa, Franklin, Lamar, Lawrence, Marion, Perry, Randolph, Talladega, and Winston. The worst infestations have been found around Bankhead National Forest and the Oakmulgee District of the Talladega National Forest, spilling over onto nearby private lands.

The AFC is actively working to address the problem by marking beetle spots, conducting ground checks, and notifying landowners by mail. Landowners are urged to monitor the AFC’s online SPB Location Map to identify and treat affected areas on their property. Updated beetle control information and local AFC representative contacts are available on the AFC’s website at forestry.alabama.gov.

With the timber industry playing such a significant role in Alabama’s economy, protecting it from further damage is crucial. Both landowners and communities are encouraged to stay vigilant to mitigate the spread of this destructive pest.

Share Your Thoughts Below, Alabama

Your input is always appreciated.

Please be sure to like, share, follow, and comment if you enjoy articles like these. Share on your social media so others can join the conversation. I will often post content dealing with The World Around Jae and Beyond.

Need a little more? Follow my YouTube channel: Jae Infinity Reactions and News