Do you have property in Cass and Crow Wing counties? Oak wilt, Bretziella fagacearum, is an invasive tree disease that's close to entering these counties for the first time. It's easy to prevent, and deadly if left unchecked. Oak wilt can quickly kill oak trees, especially those in the red oak group (oaks with pointed leaf lobes).

Homeowners and Landowners

Simple measures can prevent oak wilt (see video below) and there are control options if it's caught early. But control can be expensive. Look for and report oak wilt in red oak trees on your property or in your neighborhood.

Oak wilt is harder to identify on trees in the white oak group (rounded lobes) and often requires laboratory testing.

Resort and Tourism Operators

Look for and report suspected oak wilt in red oaks on your property to allow quick management to reduce negative impacts.

This video provides a good overview of oak wilt prevention and control from the Wisconsin DNR.