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From the Hoopa Valley Tribe:

In May 2026, Sudden Oak Death (Phytophthora ramorum, SOD) was detected on several tan oak trees located on the Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation downslope of the Dowd Road/Nixon Ranch Road approximately midway between Hoopa and Weitchpec, California.

Acorns from tan oak trees are an essential food source with significant cultural value to the Hupa people. Hoopa Forestry is collecting and testing vegetation samples within the vicinity to assess the full magnitude and extent of occurrence; coordinating with forest pathologists; and developing a plan to treat infected areas to eliminate spread and occurrence. Preliminary results indicate that the occurrence is localized.

Sudden oak death is a water mold pathogen that can kill a variety of plants, particularly canyon live oak and tan oak trees, which are common on the HVIR. The pathogen may be spread when infected water, live plant material, or spore-infested wet or dry soil is moved. Once an infected tree dies, the mold dies with it.

Hoopa Forestry has been monitoring for this pathogen for several years and increased monitoring intensity after the detection. The plan will identify vegetation treatment, surveys, access, education, and other measures aimed to eliminate and detour occurrence. Vegetation treatment may include cutting and burning infected trees and nearby vegetation.

Hoopa Forestry encourages forest users to avoid areas downslope of the Down Road/Nixon Ranch Road; avoid removing water, soil, or live plant material; and to thoroughly wash vehicles, equipment, clothing, and pets before or as soon as practical after leaving the area. Using disinfectants such as Lysol or 10% solution of bleach improves cleaning efficacy.