Laurel wilt is a new invasive tree disease in Kentucky lethal to sassafras and spicebush.  This disease is caused by a fungus, Raffaelea 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 last summer in Christian, Todd, and Logan counties.   

Given its recent arrival, agents, landowners, and professionals are largely unfamiliar with laurel wilt.  To increase awareness or laurel wilt, understanding of potential impact, and minimize future spread, I have conducted a range of Extension programing targeting diverse audiences that may encounter this disease.  For example, on August 8, 2020 I worked with the forest health specialist with Kentucky Division of Forestry to host a field day with both county agents and service foresters in Christian County to see infected sassafras, learn about the disease and gain experience with the procedure for submitting samples to the diagnostic lab.  The approximately 25 foresters and 6 agents from the area who attended were then able to recognize signs of laurel wilt, address landowner questions, and develop their own laurel wilt-focused programming.

In addition to this field day, I worked with Extension specialists in plant pathology and entomology to develop a factsheet about laurel wilt disease and have presented about laurel wilt in 15+ Extension talks throughout the state and online.   Increasing awareness and understanding of laurel wilt will hopefully decrease its rate of spread throughout Kentucky and minimize its negative impact to landowners.  Already, the impact of this programming can be seen through increased emails and phone calls about issues with sassafras which stem directly from public presentations and social media outreach.