Letter to Thomas Tidwell, Chief of the US Forest Service - Prioiritizing Funding to Better Control Spread of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid

Letter

Dear Chief Tidwell:

I write to bring to your attention the widespread damage being caused by the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, a small, aphid like insect that threatens the health and sustainability of hemlock trees across New York State. I ask that the U.S. Forest Service prioritizes funding and resources from the State and Private Forestry Program and the Cooperative Forest Health Management for further research and investments in technology to slow the spread of this invasive species. It is critical that the USFS supports projects that are aimed at the detection, eradication, and suppression of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. In addition, I ask that you engage with private landowners and local partners on how to best detect and address infestations.

As you know, most trees will ultimately die from a Hemlock Woolly Adelgid infestation. This pest feeds at the base of hemlock needles and ultimately kills the tree due to a lack of nutrients. The Hemlock Woolly Adelgid has been found in 25 counties across New York State; this poses a major threat to both the natural ecosystem and the local economy of the many communities that depend on the timber industry. It is important that the U.S. Forest Service prioritizes funding for the Forest Service's ongoing Hemlock Woolly Adelgid efforts and allocates all necessary resources to effectively carry out its Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Initiative Strategic Plan.

The Hemlock Woolly Adelgid is the largest threat to the survival of the hemlock tree population in the eastern United States. I appreciate the work that the U.S. Forest Service has done to combat the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, but I ask that you continue to direct further funds and resources to examine all potential controls for the pest and work with local partners and private land owners to best educate the public about detection and treatment methods. I encourage you to work the New York Department of Environmental Conservation and other local governments across New York to coordinate further response efforts in order to slow the spread of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. I look forward to working with you to protect New York's valuable forest lands and appreciate your attention to this important request.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Schumer
United States Senator

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