Overview
Wasaga Beach and the surrounding area has an abundance of oak trees in danger of destruction by Oak Wilt, an invasive fungus newly introduced to Southern Ontario. Oak Wilt was first detected in Canada in 2023 in Niagara Falls and the Township of Springwater, and may spread beyond these areas. It is vital to be aware of this invasive species to prevent the mass elimination of oak trees in the area.
While all oak trees are affected by this disease, red oak trees are the most susceptible. Once infected, the tree will usually die within one year in more severe cases, red oaks can die within 2-6 weeks of infection.
Signs of Disease:
LEAF DISCOLOURATION
Beginning at the top of the tree, the leaves will begin to discolour or wilt, starting at the tip of the leaf.
PREMATURE LEAF DROP
The tree may begin to prematurely drop leaves in mid to late summer.
FUNGAL MATS
Fungal mats will develop under the bark that may be white, gray, or black in colour.
BARK STAINING
Black stains may form under the outer sapwood, and the bark may crack as the fungus pushes outward.
How It Is Spread
- Primarily spread through beeties and connected tree roots
- Fungal mats develop on the tree, attracting sap beeties to feed
- Spores from the mats will stick to the beeties, spreading disease to other trees
- Spores will move to the roots of the tree, remaining after the tree dies and infecting nearby trees
What You Can Do
Avoid pruning oak trees during the high-risk time - April to November
Check oak trees for signs of oak wilt
Seal any open wounds on oak trees
Don't move firewood
Report suspected oak wilt to the CFIA
If You Suspect Your Tree is Infected
It is vital to report any infected trees to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency by emailing: OakWiltReportingOntario-Fletrissementduchene@inspection.gc.ca
If you have any further questions, please email or call Adamson Tree Expert Inc.
at (249) 877-8733, and we will be happy to help!
