On January 28 and 29 of this year, Big O Tree sent several staff members to the Annual Virginia Association of Forest Health Professionals. Plant Health Care Manager, Sten Cempe, Valley Tree Division Manager, Jamey Sensabaugh, Crew Leader, Travis Woodson and Climber, Jonah Grendahl all attended this annual conference held at The Inn at Virginia Tech.
This conference provides exceptional information on what is affecting the forests of the Eastern United States. The conference began 27 years ago in response to the invasion of the Gypsy Moth 27 years ago. Since then it has developed into a conference about the latest threats to forest and tree health. Each year we learn about new invasive insects, diseases, and plants which have been introduced from foreign countries. This conference keeps us up to date with what is new. We learn about the current coverage and advancement of current invasive pests and the current state of control.
Lessons in Pest Management
This year our team learned more about the movement and damage from Emerald Ash Borer, which is now a major pest for Virginia. If you have not heard of this pest we strongly recommend reading our latest blog post on the damage this pest is causing in the Staunton region.
In addition, our team learned about the Asian Longhorn Beetle, Spotted Lantern Fly, other new diseases, and even Feral Swine. At Big O Tree we stay at the forefront of what is happening to our forests, both natural and urban, by sending our teams to these conferences. This information prepares our team to face these pests when they eventually arrive in our area.
Big O Tree and Lawn Service strives to stay at the front of modern Arboriculture. This includes maintaining plant health by closely following what is affecting our landscape plants. We place an emphasis on plant health care which includes a vigorous and appropriate pest control program. We are equipped to treat any tree and woody plant related insect and disease which may affect your landscape. Through continuing education, attending conferences, and studying what is new we are ready to meet all your plant care needs.