New tree disease found in Minnesota: Sudden oak death alert

MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL, Minn. — University of Minnesota researchers have discovered the pathogen responsible for sudden oak death in the state for the first time. Experts say this disease has long affected West Coast forests and is now moving eastward without a cure. Researchers at the Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center identified the pathogen, Phytophthora ramorum, during a project focused on invasive forest pathogens. This effort, supported by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, aims to protect Minnesota's landscapes and economy. Nick Rajtar, a postdoctoral associate, emphasized the importance of monitoring nurseries and Christmas tree farms for plant diseases due to Minnesota's short growing season. "This early detection shows