Mapping
With special infrared mapping, the LGLC has identified locations of hemlocks within the watershed believed to be most at-risk and critical to monitor and protect.
Monitoring
On-the-ground monitoring is the most effective way to detect HWA infestations. Each year LGLC staff and volunteers walk more than 75 miles on protected lands within the watershed to check for signs of HWA.
Following the confirmed infestation of HWA within the watershed in 2020, the LGLC has been working with partner organizations (APIPP, Capital Mohawk PRISM, and DEC) to identify and monitor priority hemlocks throughout the watershed. In addition to monitoring our own preserves, we survey hemlocks on partner-owned public lands as well as several ecologically important private properties.
In 2021, the LGLC joined in a state-wide initiative to engage citizens in efforts to monitor for the invasive pest, hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). As a result of this Adopt-A-Trailhead program, more than 100 trails were monitored regionally by nearly 400 citizen scientists, all of whom went through training for HWA identification and how to report their findings with iMapInvasives.
Treating
LGLC’s trained staff have assisted with the treatment of over 30 acres of infested hemlocks on Dome Island, Shelving Rock and Paradise Bay. We will also treat infestations if found on LGLC land.
Training
The LGLC has hosted trainings at our office and in partnership with other groups, to help landowners, foresters and concerned citizens know how to monitor for and manage HWA infestations.