Bill Text: MI HR0265 | 2019-2020 | 100th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to declare May 2020 as Oak Wilt Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 10-0)
Status: (Passed) 2020-05-27 - Adopted [HR0265 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2019-HR0265-Enrolled.html
house resolution no.265
Reps. Sabo, Brixie, Chirkun, Haadsma, Hood, Kuppa, Sneller, Sowerby, Stone and Witwer offered the following resolution:
A resolution to declare May 2020 as Oak Wilt Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, Oak wilt, a deadly disease of oak trees caused by a fungal pathogen, is threatening Michigan’s oak trees; and
Whereas, Oak wilt is an invasive species found in Michigan and much of the eastern and central United States and is responsible for the death of hundreds of thousands of oak trees; and
Whereas, The oak wilt fungus can be spread by common sap beetles from infected oak trees to freshly wounded healthy oak trees, especially during spring and early summer, quickly killing red oak species; and
Whereas, The oak wilt fungus can also be transported long distances in infected oak firewood and unprocessed wood products; and
Whereas, New infections and spread of oak wilt can be limited and prevented by avoiding unnecessary pruning or wounding of oak trees during the high risk period of April 15 through July 15; and
Whereas, Nearly 500 million oak trees make up an important part of Michigan’s rural and community forests, providing a significant source of food and habitat for wildlife and adding immeasurable beauty and character to Michigan’s diverse landscapes and communities; and
Whereas, Oak trees are also an important part of the outdoor recreation and wood products industries that help sustain Michigan’s environment and economy; and
Whereas, The economic and ecological costs associated with oak wilt and its impacts to communities, utilities, outdoor recreation, forestry and wood products and other industries are significant; and
Whereas, All residents are encouraged to learn about oak wilt and the many ways to prevent its spread; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 2020 as Oak Wilt Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.
