My fiance and I bought a house that has a large grove comprised almost entirely of red pines (maybe 200). We believe a bark beetle has killed approximately 30 so far, most of which are still standing. There is no diversity in the grove that would slow the infestation.

I understand that the best time to remove is October through March (cold weather.) We are debating the most responsible (and affordable) removal and spread prevention methods and would appreciate your help. We are concerned about burning them in a furnace for reasons of both safety and carbon release into the atmosphere. We also have a burn pile, but the same concerns apply. Can you provide guidance? Are there ways to find reputable companies who can deal with this problem? We do need to keep costs in check, but don't want to lose the whole grove. We do plan to put in seedlings of other tree varietals (redbuds have been recommended) in the place of the fallen trees.

Thanks, Marilyn

I would encourage you to engage the services of a professional forester to assist you with an on-site tree removal plan for this stand of red pine.

IDNR District Forester Map: http://dnr.state.il.us/conservation/forestry/Documents/DistrictForestersMap.pdf

P.S. Don't fret over carbon emissions from burning firewood...it's a non-issue in the grand scheme of things as wood is not a fossil fuel! Anyone who tells you differently is living in a fantasy world filled with unicorns :-)