During the last 10 years, the region averaged 8,200 fires per year with 16,300 acres burned per year. Drought, flooding, frost damage, ice damage, and strong winds all stress or kill trees. There are numerous insects and diseases, both native and non-native, that stress and kill trees. Insects and diseases that are currently important problems in this region include hemlock wooly adelgid, butternut canker, gypsy moth, and hemlock looper. Also, elevated concentration of ozone during the summer months is causing visible injury to plant leaves.
Most trees have no damage.
Some trees have wounds or damages on them. This does not mean that the damage is necessarily fatal. Overall, the forest is in good condition. In a healthy forest you will see dead and dying trees. Trees die as a natural part of life in the forest.