Sudden Oak Death, Phytophthora ramorum: a Persistent Threat to Oaks and Other Tree Species

Susan J. Frankel and Katharine M. Palmieri

Published May 2014 in International Oaks No. 25: 43–22

Abstract

This paper reviews the status and management of sudden oak death and sudden larch death in the urban and wildland forests of California, Oregon, and the United Kingdom. The causal pathogen, Phytophthora ramorum (Werres, De Cock & Man in’t Veld), was discovered in all three locations over a decade ago. Despite professional, dedicated attempts, efforts to contain and eliminate infestations have been unsuccessful. These less than satisfactory management intervention outcomes underscore the importance of prevention, for once forest pathogens become established, response is costly and difficult, and eradication is unlikely. New approaches are needed to protect forests from invasive pathogens.

Keywords

Notholithocarpus densiflorus, Quercus agrifolia, Larix kaempferi, invasive forest pathogens, forestry management

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