May 2024: Oak Wilt Awareness Month

WHEREAS, oak wilt, an invasive disease responsible for the death of hundreds of thousands of oak trees across the eastern and central United States, threatens Michigan’s oak trees; and,

WHEREAS, the oak wilt fungus can be spread by common sap beetles flying from infected oak trees to freshly-wounded healthy oak trees, especially during spring and early summer, quickly killing red oak species; and,

WHEREAS, the oak wilt fungus can be transported over long distances in infected oak firewood and unprocessed wood products; and,

WHEREAS, new infections and the spread of oak wilt can be prevented by avoiding unnecessary pruning or wounding of oak trees during the high-risk period of April 15 – July 15; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan’s rural and community forests are home to nearly 500 million oak trees, which provide food and habitat for wildlife, add beauty and character to our natural landscapes, and are an important part of our outdoor recreation and wood products industries; and,

WHEREAS, there are significant economic and ecological costs associated with oak wilt and its impacts to communities, utilities, outdoor recreation, forestry and wood products, and other industries; and, 

WHEREAS, all residents are encouraged to learn about oak wilt and how to prevent its spread;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2024 as Oak Wilt Awareness Month in Michigan.