Sudden Oak Death

Sudden Oak Death (SOD) was first observed in trees along the north coast of California in 1995. Many Oaks were rapidly dying with no identifiable cause. It was not until 2000 that University of California researchers were able to isolate Phytophora ramorum, a previously unidentified fungal-like pathogen, as the causal agent. Since then, many species of plants have been found to harbor P.ramorum, each with its own set of symptoms and levels of mortality. Associated hosts, which do not die of P.ramorum but may spread the disease, are also regulated. Please see the USDA's current list of regulated hosts and associated hosts.

Although the entire state of California is federally regulated for Sudden Oak Death, Shasta County is currently considered free from the pathogen, thanks in part to vigilant pest exclusion inspections and surveys. County agricultural inspectors inspect all incoming shipments of SOD host material from regulated areas.

If you suspect Sudden Oak Death, please complete the weed survey or call our office at 224-4949.