Expert: Jim Hyland - 8/4/2006

Question
I live outside of Roanoke, Virginia and I have had several large pine trees that have turned brown and died.  These trees are well established and other trees around them are fine.  I have another one that is starting to turn brown - is there anything I can do to save it?

Answer
You need to determine what is killing these trees--it could be anything from drougt to bark beetles. I would suggest that you contact the Virginia Department of Forestry and get one of their Foresters to come take a look and advise you on the ground. This is a free service. Their Roanoke county office information is:

Bob Boeren, Forester
Barry Crawford, Technician
Virginia Department of Forestry
19753 Main Street
Buchanan, Virginia 24066
Mailing address:
P.O. Box 1126
Buchanan, Virginia 24066

And the Forest Health Specialist ofice information is:
Chris Asaro, chris.asaro@dof.virginia.gov   Central Office, Charlottesville 434.977.6555

I retired in Alabama from the same position Chris has so if you can not get the local Forester call Chris he may remember me. Both should be able to help.