Drought Exacerbates Beetle Infestation Southwest Colorado is currently experiencing extensive losses of Piñon, Ponderosa and other pine trees in our woodlands. The primary agents responsible for this mortality in Piñons are a small bark beetle – piñon Ips (Ips confusus) and a pathogen – black stain root disease (Leptographium wagneri). Drought-weakened piñons are currently highly suseptible to infestation.

Frequently Asked Questions

The fact sheets below are provided by the Colorado State Forest Service, Durango District (P.O. Box 7233, Durango, CO 81301 PH: 970.247.5250 FAX: 970.247.5252):

How can I prevent beetle infestation?

What's causing my Piñons to die? (PDF)

Are there professional services to help me? (PDF)

Where can I take my slash? (PDF)

Piñon Mortality Info Sheet

Articles about Piñon die-off

What can I do with my slash?

Articles by Dave Leatherman, Entomologist, CSFS

Western Pine Beetle in Southwest Colorado:
A Landowner’s Guide (PDF)

Fuels Reduction & Bark Beetles (PDF)

Wildlife Basics for the Arborist (PDF)

Bark Beetles & Borers (PDF)

Why Now is a Good Time to be a Bark Beetle in Colorado (PDF)

Specific Recommendations to Reduce Problems
to Wildlife from Urban Tree-care Operations (PDF)

Preventative Spraying for IPS Beetles (PDF)

Other Types of Bark Beetle Infestation

What about Ponderosa infestation?

Ips Beetle Fact Sheet (PDF)

Cedar Bark Beetle Fact Sheet (PDF)

Douglas Fir Beetle Fact Sheet (PDF)