Managing an Epidemic of Swiss Needle Cast in the Douglas-Fir Region of Oregon: The Role of the Swiss Needle Cast Cooperative

Swiss needle cast (SNC) is a foliage disease specific to Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) caused by the Ascomycete fungus Phaeocryptopus gaeumannii. Currently, it is causing an epidemic west of the Oregon Coast Range from Coos Bay to Astoria: 2010 aerial survey estimate of almost 400,000 ac of plantations with visible symptoms. General symptoms include chlorotic needles, decreased needle retention resulting in sparse crowns, and growth reductions. Growth losses in the epidemic area have been in the range of 20‐55%, although mortality from the disease is rare. The SNC Cooperative (SNCC) was established in January 1997 at Oregon State University with private, state, and federal partners. The mission of the SNCC is to conduct research on enhancing Douglas-fir productivity and health in the presence of SNC. We present an integrated pest management framework for SNC on the Oregon Coast based on research sponsored by the SNCC.