As Texas enters the most critical window for oak wilt transmission, Texas A&M Forest Service will offer funding to assist private landowners in combating the spread of the devastating fungal disease that attacks trees.

a tree with a large whole in it and missing bark from oak wilt fungal mats
Oak wilt fungal mats are spore-producing structures that form under the bark of recently dead oak trees, creating a moist, fruity-smelling environment that attracts sap-feeding beetles, which carry the spores to fresh wounds on healthy oaks and spread the deadly disease. (Texas A&M Forest Service)

The agency is increasing its Texas Oak Wilt Cost Share program to provide more financial and technical assistance for oak wilt suppression, including trenching and red oak removals, just as the high-risk spring season begins.

Oak wilt is one of the most destructive tree diseases in the U.S., killing millions of trees across Central Texas. Springtime represents the period of highest risk, as sap-feeding beetles that spread the fungal spores are most active, and fungal mats full of spores are more likely to occur.

Funding helps reduce spread, save trees

The allocated cost-share funds are designed to empower landowners to take proactive measures before the disease can further devastate local canopies and diminish property values.

“The health of our oak trees is a vital component of the Central Texas landscape and economy,” said Demian Gomez, Texas A&M Forest Service regional forest health coordinator. “With the support of the Texas Oak Wilt Cost Share program, we are able to provide assistance to the private landowners who steward 95% of our state’s forests. This funding allows us to move from reactive management to a more proactive stance against the spread of oak wilt.”

Funding can be used to offset the costs of physical containment of the disease center. This can include the installation of trenches to break root-to-root transmission – up to $5,000, rogueing or pushing diseased trees within the boundaries of the trench, and/or the removal of infected red oaks to avoid the formation of fungal mats – up to $2,000.

“For landowners in the Hill Country and across Central Texas, these trees aren’t just scenery; they are a multi-generational investment and a significant factor in our property’s value,” said Gomez. “Access to state funding and expert guidance helps landowners take the necessary steps to significantly slow the destructive spread of oak wilt and save trees.”

Landowners are reminded that from Feb. 1 through June 30, it is critical to avoid pruning oak trees to prevent attracting the beetles that spread the disease. If pruning is necessary, all wounds should be painted immediately.

Accessing funds

For more information on oak wilt and how to apply for cost-share funding, visit the website.  

To qualify for cost-share assistance, landowners must work with Texas A&M Forest Service personnel to verify the presence of the disease and develop a specialized management plan. Applications for cost-shares must be approved before cost-shareable treatment can begin.

Texas A&M Forest Service has regional offices throughout Central Texas with staff available to provide technical assistance to landowners concerned about oak wilt on their property.  

For more information, use the Find My Forester tool to identify and contact the Texas A&M Forest Service representative serving your county.

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