Pine Bark Beetle Meeting Set in Spearfish

By Scout Nelson

SDSU Extension and the USDA Forest Service are hosting a public meeting to help landowners manage rising pine bark beetle populations. The event will take place on May 11, 2026, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. MT at the Recreation Center multi-purpose room in Spearfish. The meeting is open to everyone, and there is no cost to attend.

Pine engraver beetles and mountain pine beetles are increasing in the northern Black Hills. These insects damage trees and can lead to large areas of tree loss if not managed early. Many landowners are already noticing signs of trouble, including patches of browning trees in forested areas.

“Many landowners in the Northern Hills are noticing pockets of browning trees. These are due to infestations by one of the pine bark beetles. This is the time to start identifying infestations and beginning management to help reduce the impact for this year and next,” said John Ball, Professor, SDSU Extension Forestry Specialist & South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Forest Health Specialist.

During the meeting, experts will explain where tree damage is happening and what landowners can expect in the coming season. They will also provide simple steps to identify infestations and reduce beetle impact. Managing these pests early can help protect forest health and prevent further spread.

John Ball and Kurt Allen, a USDA Forest Service entomologist, will lead the discussion. They will share research findings and practical advice for forest management. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn directly from specialists.

The event aims to support landowners in protecting their trees and maintaining healthy forests. Early action and proper management can reduce damage and improve long-term forest conditions.

Anyone interested in forest health is encouraged to attend and bring questions. For more information, landowners can contact John Ball for more information.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-paul-hartley