~Urban Forest Management Division Monitoring Transmission & Educating Public~

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. – In response to the growing concern over the spread of beech leaf disease in Fairfax County, County staff partnered with Virginia Cooperative Extension to host a webinar titled, "The Beech Blight: Unraveling the Mystery of Beech Leaf Disease." The webinar will raise awareness about this new threat to American beech trees (Fagus grandifolia).

The webinar, scheduled for Monday, May 20, 2024, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., includes foresters who will share about the County's efforts to monitor beech leaf disease. A scientist from the United States Forest Service will provide current research on the disease, and a researcher will share studies about management tactics. The public will also learn more about the disease's spread and its impact on the local forests. For more information or to register for the webinar, visit the Beech Leaf Disease Webinar Registration webpage.

Beech leaf disease is linked to a microscopic roundworm or nematode (Litylenchus crenatae mccannii) that feeds on the inside of leaves and leaf buds, in time killing the leaves and likely the entire tree. Residents can identify signs of beech leaf disease by looking for dark green stripes between the veins, puckered, cupped, or distorted leaves. Residents who suspect a tree may be infected are urged to report it on iNaturalist and include pictures of the leaves. Reporting signs of the disease will help the Urban Forest Management Division (UFMD) to map and monitor the spread of the disease.

Given that American beech trees make up about 9% of trees in Fairfax County forests, the disease has the potential to change the forest ecosystems. As one of the most common local giant trees, the County sees the importance of protecting trees, which provide ecological and health benefits for all beings.

Residents are urged to practice good tree care, including proper mulching and watering during droughts, to support the health of their trees.

Questions may be sent to pestmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or by calling 703-324-1770, TTY 711. Additional details about beech leaf disease are available at Beech Leaf Disease.