Laurel wilt is a new invasive tree disease in Kentucky lethal to sassafras and spicebush.  This disease is caused by a fungus, Harringtonia lauricola, and spread by the redbay ambrosia beetle, both of which are native to Asia.  Infection by the fungus compromises the vascular system of the tree and can rapidly kill sassafras. While it has been present in coastal areas of the southeast for several years, killing redbay laurel, avocado, and other species, it was first detected in Kentucky in 2019 in Christian, Todd, and Logan counties.  Since then, it has spread all the way into Jefferson County and it is likely to spread to other locations in the near future.

Given its recent arrival, agents, landowners, and professionals are largely unfamiliar with laurel wilt.  To increase awareness or laurel wilt, understanding of potential impacts, and to minimize future spread, I worked with partners at the Kentucky Division of Forestry to host two laurel wilt field days in 2023. This occurred at two locations: Jefferson Memorial Forest (Louisville, KY) on July 6 and Lake Barkley State Resort Park on Aug 11 (Cadiz, KY). Each field day included:

• Background on laurel wilt disease
• Symptoms of laurel wilt disease
• How to collect samples from trees with laurel wilt disease symptoms (and time to scout and practice)
• Discussion of diagnostic processing of submitted samples
• View monitoring plot and discuss changes over time
• Discussion of other pests/issues resulting in similar symptoms

Over 25 people attended these field days, including forest health professionals from neighboring states that have not yet been impacted by laurel wilt disease.   In addition to our Kentucky field days, partners in Tennessee hosted their own training with similar content.