Oak wilt is a serious and fast-moving fungal disease threatening oak trees across the Finger Lakes region. As of October 2025, active infections have been confirmed in the towns of Middlesex, Italy, Naples, South Bristol and Bristol. The disease spreads underground through connected root systems and above ground via beetles or the movement of infected firewood, quickly killing infected red oaks. Early detection and informed action are critical to protecting the health of our region’s forests.
Join the Finger Lakes Land Trust on Thursday, June 4th at 6:30 PM at the South Bristol Town Hall for an informational workshop on oak wilt, presented by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Landowners and community members will learn how to identify the signs and symptoms of oak wilt, properly report suspected cases, and take steps to help prevent its spread. DEC staff will also share the latest updates on monitoring and management strategies being implemented locally, along with practical guidance for protecting oak trees on your property and across our region’s forests.
Presented by: Austin Shay, Forest Heath Crew Lead for Region 8, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Supporting Sponsor: Western Finger Lakes Chapter, New York Forest Owners Association
This event is part of the FLLT’s Hemlock to High Tor Initiative and is free and open to the public.