Oak Woodland Recovery

The damage that GSOB causes has the potential to devastate oak woodlands, as infestations impact the oldest and most prolifically reproducing trees. Poor oak recruitment and regeneration not only threatens the oak forests themselves, but also the wildlife that utilize oak resources. These woodlands provide wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, wood and livestock products, high quality water supply, and aesthetic value. Loss of woodlands impacts recreation, water quality and quantity, and the state's iconic visual landscape.

The Integrated Hardwood Range Management Program (IHRMP) was a statewide Program was established to address this widespread concern for native California oaks. The program's focus was on maintaining and increasing acreage of California's hardwood range resources. While the program dissolved in 2010, the Oak Woodland Conservation Workgroup carries on its research and outreach/extension efforts.

Land managers, arborists, foresters, and landowners who are responsible for the stewardship of oaks and oak woodlands should be up to date on the latest information about the problems facing oak woodlands and how to avoid or minimize losses.

Photos courtesy of Andrew Weinhart and Nathan Judy (Cleveland National Forest, US Forest Service).

More Information

Hands-On Acorn Activity (PDF)
An easy to follow activity illustrating basic acorn planting guidelines including collecting, testing, and storing acorns for planting.