Containment Strategy

If  wood can’t be moved away from uninfested trees, consider covering the wood piles with thick mil, clear, plastic tarp or metal window screen (with a mesh small enough to stop mosquitoes) to trap emerging GSOB until they die from starvation.  Note that covering cut oak wood with clear plastic does not kill developing GSOB beetles in the bark.  Covering very large piles of wood with plastic or screen may be impractical.  Either method will be completely ineffective if holes or cracks open up in the covering or the covering is pulled off to access the wood during the May-October flight season.

Containment strategy considerations:

• Tarped or screened piles should be located in full sun to speed up the drying process.

• Adult emergence can be contained if you maintain a tight seal and the wood is kept covered. Use UV resistant plastic, or double layer plastic to prevent tearing and avoid pulling it tight over sharp edges.  Seal the edge of the plastic with dirt for an air tight seal and for resistance to flapping in winds.
  
  
• Metal window screen can be more durable than plastic and potentially re-used if handled carefully.  However, it is more difficult to work with than plastic and more expensive.  The air flow allowed by screening helps the wood to dry out faster without mold forming. Screen is normally sold in narrow widths and may require creating the enclosure using multiple seams; make sure that all seams are well secured.

 

More Information

• Cal Fire Tree Note #3 Controlling Bark Beetles in Wood Residue & Firewood (PDF)

• Best Management Practices for Preventing the Spread of GSOB Through the Movement of Logs and Firewood (PDF)