Manage/Mitigate Conifer Tree Problems
May 2025 Alert - Dying Junipers
There seem to be a large number of junipers dying in the areas of Yavapai County north of Prescott. Yesterday, Extension made a site visit to one of the communities which reported the problem to further investigate. Samples were taken, but other than evidence of one flat head borer, no deleterious insects were found.
At this time, without further evidence, I cannot say that this is a beetle problem, but most likely due to the recent drought conditions. This is because most of the plants I saw were smaller, with less well-developed root systems or on southern aspects that receive the greatest amount of sun and heat throughout the day. My recommendation currently is to cut and remove dead junipers close to your house and give supplemental irrigation to select trees that are directly surrounding your house/have high value. Clearing dead junipers on your property to avoid fire danger is also recommended.
I have reached out to regional specialists with the US Forest Service, Northern Arizona University, and Arizona Department of Fire and Forestry and will report back if I gain any additional information.
Matt Halldorson, Director, Yavapai County Cooperative Extension
The following information still valid - May 2025
Pine Bark Beetle Frequently Asked Questions
Prescott National Forest Bulletin
Forest Service Flyer (includes QR code to latest info)
Bark Beetle Tree Removal - Cost Sharing
Using Insecticides to Prevent Bark Beetle Attacks on Conifers AZ1380 and Addendum to AZ1380
Note: There is little or no data on whether or not Verbenone (anti-aggregation pheromone) is effective on Ips bark beetles. We still recommend the single tree protection strategies that are discussed in AZ1380.
Cypress Bark Beetle AZ 1316 (AZ Cypress, Leyland Cypress, native Junipers)
Drought Impacts on Conifers Backyard Gardener #117
Drought and Extreme Heat: Plant Responses and Landscape Maintenance Practices AZ1876
Free Bark Beetle Site Assessments
The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management's Forest Health team is currently scheduling free site assessments for property owners who believe they may have bark beetle presence/damage to their trees (available in English and Spanish). The invasive Mediterranean Pine Engraver was recently confirmed in Sedona and Cottonwood. The winter months are the best time to take action when the bark beetles are most likely to be dormant. Email foresthealth@dffm.az.gov to schedule your free assessment.