Join the 2025 FALL Goldspotted Oak Borer Blitz!

Image

Help us protect Southern California’s oak trees one hike at a time.

The goldspotted oak borer (GSOB) is a tiny beetle causing a big problem for Southern California’s oak trees. Its larvae tunnel beneath the bark and feed on the tissues that transport water and nutrients, slowly starving the tree from the inside out. After several years of repeated infestations, the damage becomes too much, and the tree dies. GSOB has already killed tens of thousands of mature oaks across the region.

But we can do something about it, and we need your help!
 

What’s a GSOB Blitz?

A GSOB Blitz is a community-powered effort to detect and map goldspotted oak borer infestations. With your help, we’ll survey oak trees across Southern California to identify where this pest is spreading, and how bad the damage is. These surveys help scientists and land managers decide where to take action to save our trees.

Even better? It’s a great way to learn, explore, and connect with nature while making a real impact. 

How it works:

• Local survey events will take place across Southern California between designated dates.
• Events are led by local agencies in collaboration with UC ANR and other partners.
• Volunteers (like you!) will collect data in the field, after a brief training session.
• You don’t need to be an expert; we’ll teach you everything you need to know! 

How to Participate

Step 1: Register Online.  

• Register to a GSOB Blitz event! Links to online registration for each scheduled GSOB Blitz event are listed below. If you do not see an event planned in your area, subscribe to the GSOB Blitz listserv to let us know you are interested. We will keep you informed as new events are organized.
   
• Following registration, you will receive more details via email. 
   
• *Train-the-Trainer - Events designated as train-the-trainer are intended to equip those who will likely be educating others in their organizations or communities about GSOB and may potentially lead future GSOB Blitz groups. Instruction and field experience are similar to the general community volunteer GSOB Blitz but may include more technical terms and emphasis on various management and strategy options as well as resource supplies.

Step 2: Get Trained

• Complete the Online GSOB Course (approximately 1 hour). Instructions for accessing the course, HERE.
• Watch the GSOB Blitz Training Webinar recording held  May 27, 2025, 1:00–3:00 PM. 

Step 3: Join Your Survey Event

On the day of your local Blitz:

• Meet your group at the designated time and place.
• Receive your GSOB Blitz Bag with supplies and instructions.
• Head out with your team to survey oak trees and collect data!

Ready to Make a Difference?

Let’s team up to stop GSOB and help keep Southern California’s oak woodlands healthy and thriving for wildlife, for people, and for future generations.
 

NOTE: SUBSCRIBE to the our primary GSOB listerv to receive news and information on goldspotted oak borer research, resources and upcoming events throughout the year.

Contact

Questions or more information about the GSOB Blitz can be directed to:
Jan Gonzales, Community Education Supervisor, UC Cooperative Extension
Email: jggonzales@ucanr.edu