Firewood and the Forest Pest Multiverse: the influence of time on perceptions of regulation and detection

The ease of detection of new geographically distinct infestations of forest pests and pathogens is highly dependent on several factors: damage patterns to trees, existence and use of effective lures, and visual distinctiveness of the pest itself. The resulting variable lags in time between establishment of a new pest population versus detection of that pest population can drive flawed perceptions of the history of regulatory action and effectiveness. This webinar will explore how time lags in detection can create missed opportunities for effective public outreach and regulatory engagement, and how openly tackling these time lags as part of the conversation can help better protect trees around the USA—and the world.

Presentation by: Leigh Greenwood, Forest Pest and Pathogen Program Director, The Nature Conservancy