The resulting map shows the Massa- chusetts forest canopy’s health. This can then be used to see what is hap- pening in your backyard or to assist foresters in writing stewardship or management plans. The story map shows the most recent two years and An adult Emerald Ash Borer. Photo by Jared Spo- kowsky, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Bugwood.org
Damage caused by Emerald Ash Borer larvae burrowing into the wood.
that regulate their impact. For non- native insects and diseases, we use the most recent scientific research to guide our mitigation decisions and management planning. The forest health program works to inform pro- fessionals in the field and the public of the most damaging pests and dis- eases. We do this by giving presenta- tions to organizations and at events, and exhibiting at local fairs, confer- ences and expos. More recently, the Forest Health program has published a story map which includes an overview of the program and highlights major is- sues. Click here to access the story map. This map can be navigated by scrolling down and clicking le and right, and all photos and maps can be enlarged for a closer look. If you are looking for a specific pest, there are quick access tabs at the top to bring you directly to the topic you’re inter- ested in. Maps like the aerial survey results are fully interactive and zoom in and out, users can also click on the polygons for additional information. One of the program’s most popular items is the aerial survey results.
Each year, with funding from the United States Forest Service, the For- est Health Program flies over the en- tire state and maps any disturbances seen in the canopy. Then staff visit every location on the ground to di- agnose the damage-causing agent.
Exit holes made by Asian Longhorned Beetles. Photo by E. Richard Hoebeke, Cornell University, Bugwood.org
28 | ArborTIMES Spring 2023
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