Tree health in the Ozarks, a growing concern

View from Stegall Mtn Firetower

People with tree concerns or questions can get answers at June 18 event

WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Missourians love their trees and each summer, a number of diseases and pests cause concern for tree owners throughout the region.

People can get information about tree problems they may be experiencing at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) seminar “Are Trees In Trouble.” This free event will be 9 a.m.-2 p.m. June 18 at the MDC Ozark Regional Office in West Plains (551 Joe Jones Blvd.). Lunch will be provided.

Part of the workshop will focus on invasive species that could have critical impacts on Missouri forests. Also discussed will be the benefits of urban trees and I-Tree Streets, a computer-based program that allows communities to conduct and analyze street tree inventory. I-Tree Streets software allows homeowners in urban areas to see the benefits of having trees in their neighborhood and around town.

The workshop will conclude with a showing of “Trees in Trouble,” a documentary that tells the story of America’s urban and community forests; their history, their growing importance to our health, economy and environment.

People can register for this workshop by to register for this workshop, contact MDC’s Ozark Regional Office at 417-256-7161. Information about tree pests and tree management can also be found at mdc.mo.gov.