Oak Wilt in Western New York: What Homeowners Need to Know in 2026

Oak trees are a cornerstone of our landscapes here in the Rochester and Finger Lakes region, providing shade, beauty, and long-term value to your property. Unfortunately, a serious tree disease known as oak wilt is now impacting areas close to home, including parts of Naples, NY.

With the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recently expanding quarantine restrictions in nearby Ontario and Yates Counties, it’s more important than ever for homeowners to understand what oak wilt is and how to prevent its spread.

What Is Oak Wilt?

Oak wilt is a fast-moving fungal disease that affects all oak species. It is caused by the fungus Bretziella fagacearum, which blocks the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients.

• Red oaks (like pin oak and northern red oak) can die in just a few weeks

• White oaks may decline more slowly over several years

Once infected, trees often cannot be saved, making prevention critical.

Why This Matters Near Rochester

In early 2026, the DEC expanded oak wilt quarantine zones in the Finger Lakes region after confirming new infections. These restrictions now include:

• Entire towns: Middlesex, Italy, South Bristol

• Portions of: Bristol and Naples, NY

That puts oak wilt within close proximity to Rochester, making awareness and prevention especially important for homeowners and property managers in Monroe County.

New DEC Quarantine Rules (Naples Area)

To stop the spread, the DEC has implemented strict regulations on moving wood materials.
What You CANNOT move out of quarantine areas:

• Oak logs or branches

• Firewood or wood pieces less than 29 inches (any species)
What IS allowed:

• Wood chipped to 1 inch or smaller

• Non-oak wood over 29 inches

• Properly heat-treated firewood

These rules exist because transporting firewood is one of the fastest ways oak wilt spreads.

How Oak Wilt Spreads

Oak wilt moves in two primary ways:

1. Underground (Root Systems)

Nearby oak trees often share interconnected roots, allowing the disease to spread quickly from tree to tree.

2. Above Ground (Beetles)

Beetles are attracted to fungal spore mats on infected trees. They carry spores to fresh wounds on healthy oaks.

Signs to Watch For

Oak wilt symptoms are most noticeable in summer:

• Sudden leaf wilting (July-August)

• Leaves turning brown from the edges inward

• Early leaf drop, often while leaves are still partially green

• Dieback starting at the top of the tree

If you notice these signs, early action is critical.

How to Protect Your Oak Trees

✔ Avoid pruning in spring and summer

Pruning between March and September increases risk, as beetles are most active during this time.
✔ Never move firewood

Keep firewood local, even outside quarantine zones.

✔ Seal wounds immediately

If an oak is damaged during warm months, sealing the wound can reduce infection risk.
✔ Work with professionals

Oak wilt management often involves:

• Tree removal

• Root trenching to stop spread

• Preventative treatments

What the DEC Is Doing

The DEC is actively working to contain oak wilt through:

• Aerial and ground surveys

• Removal of infected and nearby trees

• Root disruption techniques

• Long-term monitoring (5+ years)

These efforts are aimed at eradication—not just control.

How High Falls Tree Service Can Help

At High Falls Tree Service, we’re closely monitoring the oak wilt situation in our region. Our team can: • Inspect and diagnose oak tree health

• Advise on safe pruning schedules

• Assist with compliance in quarantine areas

• Provide safe removal and management strategies

If you’re unsure about the health of your oak trees or have concerns about oak wilt, don’t wait. Final Thoughts

Oak wilt is a serious threat, but with awareness and responsible practices, we can help slow its spread and protect the trees that define our landscapes.

With confirmed cases now near, this is no longer a distant issue; it’s one that affects our entire region.

Contact High Falls Tree Service if you suspect oak wilt or want to protect your trees. Reach out today. Early detection makes all the difference.