Why are the Carson City, NV pine trees growing along city streets dying?

Question

The pine trees planted decades ago along the city sidewalks, and other pines planted along with 4' high hedges, in 15' by 10' decorative areas in corners of apartment buildings, are beginning to dry out, branches breaking off, pine needles thinning, browning, crackling to the touch.  There is a distinctive, "moldy" smell.  Pine trees in shaded areas are just as sick as those in sun drenched areas.  All these trees are in city areas between Carson City and Reno, (northern) Nevada.  What can I do to keep these trees from dying.  How can I determine if they are too diseased to be saved?

Answer 1

You most likely have pine beetles. Look at the trunks of the trees there will be tiny holes in them. Generally the trees will start out just losing needles but then it will be branches and eventually the whole tree dies. The only way to get rid of them is to take out the trees that are infected and either burn them or take them far away. Hope this helps.