Bark beetle

[JDRichlen]

Does anybody know if there is a suggested method of reporting a possible bark beetle infestation?  I had an empty lot next door that just got purchased. The buyers came and did some clearing and within a month or two the 3 large pines are completely dead.  Due to the heavy trimming it is hard to tell if the sap and sawdust is just from the trimming or a beetle infestation.  I don't know what else could kill these trees so quickly. 

I am worried if it is indeed a beetle infestation that my trees will be next.

Anybody know who to report this to?

[Wrightwood]

If the tree(s) were to fall, will they hit SCE lines?

[JDRichlen]

Ya, I suppose one of them could.

[Nolena]

Report the trees to Edison. They will remove them for free.

[Wrightwood]

https://www.sce.com/safety/power-lines

Trees, shrubs, and other vegetation can cause safety hazards and power outages if they grow into or near power lines. In support of safety, we regularly trim or remove trees that are dead, dying, or diseased, or growing near or under power lines.

If you have any questions about vegetation located near SCE power lines, contact SCE Customer Support:
800-655-4555

Report the trees to Edison. They will remove them for free.

[JDRichlen]

So, I've contacted the SCE, The forest service, the WW fire Dept, and the USDA.  I've had very little luck in getting any information about bark beetle. It seems as though it may not be as big a problem as it was in the last drought.

SCE will remove the one tree that is at risk of falling on the power lines.  They said they have no interest or obligation in the other trees on the neighbors lot or in identifying a bark beetle infestation.

My main concern is identifying if it is indeed a bark beetle infestation, and if so, how to 1. Remove the trees next door that are completely dead and 2. Make sure my trees and neighboring trees don't get infected.

Do I need a private arborist?  Any recommendations?

[Elk]

A professional arborist is probably your best bet for advice and diagnosis.

If the tree is not a threat to power lines, SCE won't do anything and won't advise or diagnose.

The USFS and USDA won't respond because it is not in the Forest.

The Wrightwood / San Bernardino County Fire is not in the business.

The Wrightwood Fire Safe Council has a few resources on their website. Here are a couple of links...
Wrightwood Fire Safe Council: https://www.wrightwoodfsc.com/
Management of bark beetle logs & firewood: https://www.wrightwoodfsc.com/barkbeetle/BarkBeetleManageLogsFirewood.10.18.18.pdf
ABATEMENT OF FIRE HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS TREES: https://www.wrightwoodfsc.com/documents/AbatementHazTrees.pdf

Wrightwood has a couple local tree removal companies. I only have experience with one, Wrightwood Arbor Tree Services. Mark Helton is the owner/operator. This is a link to his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/wwarbortrees
You should do your own due diligence in choosing an Arborist/Tree Removal Company.

Hope this helps??

[Elk]

One more thought on the neighboring parcel...
SB County Code Enforcement is responsible for weed abatement/fire clearance. Maybe they could help with the issue on the neighboring parcel.

[JDRichlen]

Thanks Elk.  Those are some good resources.  I'll check them out. We're terrified of losing our trees. The ones in the lot next door died so fast.