Dry weather raises bark beetle threat in Salzburg forests

The risk of bark beetle infestations has risen sharply in Salzburg’s forests, ORF reports. Wet conditions in spring initially delayed the insects’ spread, but the dry and hot weather of recent weeks and months has weakened trees and accelerated the beetles’ reproduction.

The infestation is currently occurring across the state, said Rupert Quehenberger, president of the Salzburg Chamber of Agriculture. Monitoring shows that the bark beetle is already relatively widespread, and further infestations are expected if conditions remain favourable. Forests should therefore be checked regularly, with infested trees removed at an early stage.

Infestation levels are roughly the same as in previous years, Quehenberger said. The key question is whether the beetles can find suitable breeding material. Drought is putting stress on forests, and spruce trees cannot absorb enough water to produce sufficient resin to repel the beetles as they bore into the trunks.

Dryness and heat have also caused widespread damage to forests this year. Beech trees, as well as lime, cherry and maple trees, have already begun shedding their leaves, often turning an unusually brown colour, Quehenberger said. The effect is particularly visible on mountain slopes with limestone sites or gravel soils.