NPR for Northern Colorado

Foresters Urge Treatment Of Branches To Prevent Infestation

Spruce beetle damage in a Colorado forest, as seen from above.
Dan West

State foresters are urging residents near Colorado Springs to cut and treat the trees and branches downed by the powerful storm that struck the area in mid-March.

The Gazette reports the Colorado State Forest Service is looking to avoid an infestation of bark beetles that tend to prey on small, newly fallen trees and branches.

According to the state Forest Service, ips beetles usually lay their eggs in mid-April. The larvae mature within eight weeks and then spread to new trees to feast.

Forester Dave Root says the first brood of beetles should die if people treat the braches properly.

According to the National Weather Service, the Black Forest area recorded gusts of 84 mph during the bomb cyclone storm.

Copyright 2019 Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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