BIG BEAR – (INT) - The invasive goldspotted oak borer (GSOB) has been detected in dying California black oaks in the community of Sugarloaf.

It is the second GSOB infestation identified in San Bernardino County. The first was discovered in the Oak Glen area in 2018. It is also the second GSOB infestation on the San Bernardino National Forest, following the first in Idyllwild in 2012.

The long-range spread of GSOB from its native range in Arizona is attributed to the movement of infested firewood.

The Forest Service says GSOB may already be in other portions of San Bernardino County but haven’t been yet discovered. The non-native beetles aggressively attack California black oaks, coast live oaks and canyon live oaks.

Story Date: August 28, 2019