Question
Hi Mr. Hyland,
I live near Houston, Tx in a newly completed home.  We have lots of trees - both pines & oaks on approx. 1.5 acres, but unfortunately the oaks closest to the house are not doing well.  Several of them have chunks of bark peeling off and the ground is covered with many tiny white worm-like objects, about 1/2 inch long.   These white objects are also on the trees.  They do not seem to be alive and I am not sure what they are.  Is there any hope for these trees, or do you think the construction process has caused them terminal damage?
Thanks,
Barb


Answer
It is very difficult to ID a pest without clear discriptions--What you discribe could be several insects. I would recommend you call the Texas Forest Service , a State Agency, and ask one of their Foresters to come out and determine your problem. This is a free service. The Houston office is:
Mickey Merritt
Texas Forest Service Urban Forester
2020 North Loop West, Suite 106
Houston, TX 77018
713-688-8931
[email protected]