This fact sheet describes the banded ash borer, a beetle pest of hardwood trees.

Locust borer (Megacyllene robiniae) is a native longhorn beetle that attacks black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and its ornamental cultivars. This publication explains how to identify adult beetles, larvae, and pupae; describes their life cycle from egg-laying in bark cracks to adult emergence; and outlines the damage caused by larval tunneling, including weakened limbs, crown decline, and reduced timber value. It also discusses the insect’s distribution across areas where black locust grows and provides management recommendations. Preventive strategies include proper tree siting, pruning, watering, and, for high-value trees, carefully timed insecticide applications and systemic treatments to reduce new infestations.

Fall cankerworm (Alsophila pometaria) is a native North American defoliating insect that feeds on a wide range of broadleaf trees, particularly oaks in Virginia. This publication explains how to identify adult moths and larvae, distinguish fall cankerworm from the similar spring cankerworm, and recognize signs of infestation and tree damage. It describes the insect’s life cycle, seasonal activity, distribution, and history of outbreaks, including impacts on forests and urban landscapes. The publication also outlines the effects of repeated defoliation on tree health and presents management strategies, including biological controls, insecticide treatments, Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk), and tree banding for monitoring and control.

While primarily a concern on cattle, Asian longhorned tick (ALT) feeds on a variety of hosts, including horses and other equines. ALT reproduces without mating so tick densities can build quickly, and large numbers of ALT can be found on individual animals. ALT larvae, nymphs, and adults may all be found at the same time on the same animal. Wildlife, such as deer, small mammals, and birds, serve as alternative hosts for ticks and assist their spread throughout pastures. Managing ALT can be very difficult because this tick spends most of its life off the host and on the ground. The following recommendations are suggested to help protect your animals.

A factsheet on best management practices for Christmas tree growers dealing with spotted lanternfly on their farms.