Sudden oak death is a plant disease, caused by the water mold Phytophthora ramorum, that affects oaks and trees closely related to oaks. Since first detected on Midpen lands in 2000, infestations have been found in nearly half of our preserves! Each spring SOD Blitzes are scheduled throughout the region, allowing community scientists to join in the efforts to help detect and map the areas of infestation. This year all training will take place online and participants are encouraged to survey in their own neighborhood.
Midpen is proud to be a part of the award-winning Phytophthoras in Native Plant Habitats Working Group helping to minimize the spread of plant pathogens, including the one that causes sudden oak death. Join our virtual public meeting April 28 at 7 p.m. to hear results from a study conducted in Midpen preserves aimed at preventing the spread of plant diseases during native plant restoration projects.