Berrien Conservation District

Oak Wilt, a fungal disease affecting oak trees is moving through Michigan at an alarming rate. While the disease can impact all oaks, the red oak family is most susceptible, often dying within 30 days of becoming infected. 

To help homeowners, arborists, and tree service providers identify and prevent the spread of oak wilt, a FREE educational presentation is bing hosted by Releaf Michigan - a non-profit tree organization, and the Berrien Conservation District-the Local Natural Resource Agency, along with support by the SW X SW Corner CISMA-Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area. Respected plant pathologist, Dr. David Roberts, Ph.D at Michigan State University's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources will provide an overview of the disease and outline it's biggest concerns so homeowners can protect the long-term health and vitality of their trees.

Oak trees make up a significant percentage of Michigan's forests. The image of Michigan's landscape without oak trees is not a good one! It is important to know how to spot oak wilt and what actions to take.

Presentation topics will cover the disease, how it affects oak trees, and how it is transmitted via sap beetles to fresh wounds and through root grafts. Other topics will include how to manage oak wilt once identified, important dates and restrictions, what to do with diseased wood, and guidelines for hiring a tree service or arborist.

Location: Southwestern Michigan College, Niles Campus Room 134 38890 US Hwy 12 Niles, MI 49120

Date and Time: Wednesday October 10 Check-in 6:00-6:30pm Seminar 6:30-8:30pm

Seating is limited Please RSVP by October 9. RSVP to Nancy Carpenter, nancy.carpenter@macd.org or call (269) 471-9111 x 3 

Local farmers finding ways to make crops and environment 'greener' by adding Water Control Structures to their drain tile. 

The Berrien Conservation District was very excited to invite WSBT's Danielle Kennedy out to interview Patrick Freehling of Baroda on Water Control Structures and their benefits to crop production and water quality!  Click on the link to view the interview:  (click on the white circle in the center of the corn to start the video after clicking the link)

http://wsbt.com/news/local/local-farmers-finding-ways-to-make-crops-and-environment-greener