The state is asking residents to hold off on pruning oak trees until after mid-July to prevent the spread of an invasive disease that kills trees.
Oak wilt is a fungal disease that causes a rapid loss of leaves followed by a sudden death in oak trees.
In the spring and mid-summer, oak wilt is spread by nitidulid beetles. Pruning trees at this time can expose sap and attract the sap-feeding bugs.
Once a tree is infected, it can spread the disease to other trees through its roots.
If an oak tree is damaged, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said residents should immediately cover wounds with tree- or latex-based paint.
Transporting firewood that may be infected can also spread oak wilt.
The advisory to stop pruning is in effect now until July 15.
