Decline for black and scarlet oaks intensifies more rapidly over time than for white and chestnut decline. Chestnut oak has the lowest mortality rate of all oak species and hickory in the southern region in 1985. Wildlife habitat managers should consider oak decline in inventory procedures and resource management planning. Oak decline is weakening and killing increasing numbers of large mature oaks, especially the red oak group. This disease will become more common as these forests continue to mature.
Landowners have several options to promote healthy hardwood forests including oak.
These can be customized to suit any forest, depending on the amount and distribution of dead and unhealthy trees. Cut and sell declining red oaks and other oaks, especially red oak borer brood trees. Cutting these trees along traveled roads, trails or in recreation areas will reduce hazards to people. Remove mid-story trees of less desirable competing trees to encourage growth of oak seedlings and saplings. The combination of more sunlight striking the ground and possibly heavy acorn crops from stressed trees in small areas of severe oak decline can increase the number and success of oak seedlings.