2023 brought the continuation of our Hemlock Woolly Adelgid treatment program. Funding provided through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) allowed us to treat almost 30 acres along Briggs Gully, a major tributary to Honeoye Lake. The Briggs Gully parcel provided a unique opportunity for treatment as it is bordered by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) lands, as part of the Honeoye Inlet Wildlife Management Area, as well as the Wesley Hill Preserve owned by the Finger Lakes Land Trust. Each of these partners strategically treated trees on their respective parcels leading to an even larger regional effort to protect hemlock trees in this important watershed. Additional GLRI funding will also be used to support this localized treatment effort in upcoming months.
Hemlocks help protect our steep sloped areas, but it can make access to trees difficult. These critical areas require the use of ropes, a lot of courage and advanced repelling skills! Trees were treated with a basal bark application of two different chemicals, one that is fast acting and will provide immediate protection and one that is longer lasting to ensure that our hemlocks stay protected for up to 7 years. You may recall from previous newsletters that this area has also been a focus for the release of insects for biocontrol, which will provide the long-term control needed.