NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/823575
Plant pests are taking a toll on Nebraska's trees. Dutch elm disease continues to kill elms statewide. Pine wilt has all but eliminated Scotch pines from eastern Nebraska. In 2016, emerald ash borer (EAB) was found in Omaha, threatening the state's 44 million ash (Fraxinus sps.) trees. There are steps we can take to protect the health of our trees, including proper pruning, mulching and watering, and also chemical treatments. Buying firewood where you burn it helps prevent the introduction of new pests to non-infested areas. But what do we do about the trees we've already lost? The Nebraska Forest Service estimates that since the 1970s, Nebraska has lost 50 percent of its community canopy cover. For every tree planted, four are being removed. This is more than just an aesthetic concern; it is also an economic and environmental concern. Trees planted around a house can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs and increase a home's value. Trees improve water quality, reducing soil erosion and runoff. Crop fields protected by windbreaks typically see increased yields, reduced irrigation needs and reduced wind erosion of soil. Livestock raised with windbreak protection generally have better weight gain, require less supplemental feed and have increased production and survival rates. Wildlife benefits from trees, too, even in a prairie state. Trees provide food and shelter; think acorns for deer and turkeys, and nesting sites for birds. Trees also support large numbers of insects, which play an important role in the ecosystem and are a food source for many larger animals. What should we do to reverse this loss of trees? Plant more trees. Realize the loss of one tree is an opportunity to plant another, or two or three. But what tree should be planted? Consider the reason for planting a tree. Are you looking to shade your house, create a windbreak or add fall color? Size matters – make sure the size and shape of the tree at maturity will fit the site. Think about the location of overhead power lines, buildings and other objects in the landscape. Don't forget factors like soil type, plant hardiness and light and moisture needs. Diversify the landscape by planting a species not already present on your property. The Nebraska Forest Service has developed a campaign to encourage the replacement of trees called Plant it Forward to rebuild community forests and rural landscapes for the next generation. This will be increasingly important as trees are lost to EAB. The campaign includes tree lists which provide information on tree species adapted to Nebraska, and can help you make an informed decision when choosing trees at a local nursery. More information on the Plant it Forward campaign can be found online at nfs.unl.edu/ash-replacements. Remember that the best time to plant a tree is now! ■ Plant it Forward By Julie Van Meter State Entomologist, Nebraska Department of Agriculture Presented by MAY 2017 • NEBRASKAland 21