East End Beetle Infestation Already Led To Death Of 40,000 Trees; Creating Elevated Risk Of Wildfires In Region

By Jessica Mcfadyen Last updated Apr 13, 2025

East End Beetle Infestation Already Led To Death Of 40,000 Trees, Elevated Risk Of Wildfires In Region. — The southern pine beetle, a pest native to the southeastern United States, was first detected on Long Island in 2014. Since then, it has spread extensively, affecting areas such as Montauk, Amagansett, Manorville, Calverton, Yaphank, and Upton. File photo: Dmitry Zagurskiy, licensed.

RIVERHEAD, NY – Long Island’s Central Pine Barrens are facing a dual threat: the ongoing devastation caused by the southern pine beetle and an increased risk of wildfires. The beetle infestation has already led to the death of approximately 40,000 trees, creating a significant amount of dry, combustible material in the region.

The southern pine beetle, a pest native to the southeastern United States, was first detected on Long Island in 2014. Since then, it has spread extensively, affecting areas such as Montauk, Amagansett, Manorville, Calverton, Yaphank, and Upton. The beetles burrow into the bark of pine trees, disrupting the flow of sap and ultimately killing the trees. The resulting dead trees not only mar the landscape but also serve as fuel for potential wildfires.

In March 2025, this combination of factors contributed to a series of brush fires in the Pine Barrens, prompting Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency. The fires led to evacuations and the closure of major highways, highlighting the urgent need for effective forest management strategies.

Efforts to mitigate these risks include the implementation of prescribed burns and the removal of infested trees. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation has initiated projects aimed at reducing the wildfire fuel load through tree removal and the creation of fuel breaks near residential areas. Additionally, the Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning and Policy Commission has increased the fire danger rating to HIGH, reflecting the elevated risk of wildfires in the region.

To raise public awareness and discuss preventive measures, Suffolk County is hosting a symposium on the southern pine beetle and wildfire prevention on Wednesday, April 23, at Suffolk Community College’s Riverhead campus.

The convergence of beetle-induced tree mortality and favorable conditions for wildfires underscores the importance of proactive forest management and community engagement to protect Long Island’s Pine Barrens.