This project supports a coordinated, statewide effort to monitor, manage, and mitigate major forest health threats in connecticut through four integrated projects

The Department of Agriculture Forest Service Region 9–Eastern Region awarded $325,000 to the Connecticut Agricultural Experimental Station on July 21, 2026, under the Forest Health Protection program (CFDA 10.680) for a coordinated statewide effort to monitor, manage, and mitigate major forest health threats in Connecticut through four integrated projects.

The work encompasses annual surveys for key insects and diseases, standardized aerial and ground-based forest health monitoring, treatment and long-term evaluation of potassium phosphite applications for beech leaf disease, and genetic analysis of biological control agents for hemlock woolly adelgid. The award emphasizes collaboration with state, regional, and federal partners, implementation of targeted management actions, and outreach to forestry professionals and the public to support healthy, resilient forests across the state.

Performance occurs in Connecticut and runs through June 30, 2031. The Connecticut Agricultural Experimental Station, a state government entity headquartered in New Haven, acts as the recipient. The project represents part of the station's broader forest health protection portfolio, which also includes ongoing work on emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly, and other invasive species.

Activities include annual surveys for key insects and diseases, standardized aerial and ground based forest health monitoring, treatment and long term evaluation of potassium phosphite applications for beech leaf disease, and genetic analysis of biological control agents for hemlock woolly adelgid. The work emphasizes collaboration with state, regional, and federal partners, implementation of targeted management actions, and extensive outreach to forestry professionals and the public to support healthy, resilient forests across the state.