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Florida Land Steward

Florida Land Steward

Forest Health:
Insects, Diseases, and Invasive Species

Insects and diseases are natural components of the southern pine ecosystem. Their ecological purpose is to recycle the energy and nutrients of the stand. Some of these insects and diseases become pests when they inhibit pine regeneration and growth. Invasive species have also become a significantt problem for landowners and land managers working to restore and manage natural forest systems. These problems must be detected early if they are to be treated with success. The economic losses can be very high if these problems are not managed.

See these UF/IFAS web pages and publications for more information.

Insects

Diseases

Invasive Species