Horseshoe Bay reminds residents of oak pruning ban as wilt risk returns
Horseshoe Bay has an ordinance prohibiting pruning from February 1 to June 30. File photo
As oak wilt season returns, Horseshoe Bay officials are reminding residents that a citywide pruning ban is in place to help protect the area’s tree canopy.
“Oak wilt is a serious tree disease that spreads if awareness is not provided. Our community thrives on our natural environment and understanding oak wilt risk and mitigation is critical to preservation of beautiful tree canopy,” City Manager Jeff Koska told DailyTrib.
Horseshoe Bay confirmed its first case of oak wilt in April 2020. The city prohibits pruning or wounding oak trees from Feb. 1 through June 30 each year, when the disease spreads most easily.
Oak wilt is a fungal disease that spreads through beetles attracted to fresh wounds and through interconnected root systems, particularly among live oaks. Red oaks pose a higher risk, as infected trees can spread the disease to new areas, including through transported firewood.
Residents should avoid pruning, paint any necessary cuts immediately, and properly dispose of infected trees, noting early prevention remains the most effective way to slow the spread.
For more information, visit the city’s website.