This week the woodworking world received some devastating news. Pennsylvania, one of the regions largest hardwood sources, restricted the movement of walnut into and throughout the state.
Why? Thousand Cankers Disease.
Thousand Cankers Disease is carried by Walnut Twig Beetles. They burrow under the bark of walnut trees and leave behind a fungus. As more and more beetles infect the tree, it impedes the tree's ability to process nutrients and it starves. Once infected with this fungus, a walnut tree can die within ten years.As of now, there is no known cure.
So what does this mean for consumers? As with everything else, when supply goes down, prices go up. Woodworkers will need to be aware of what walnut is available and alternatives they can offer their clients due to the increased pricing.
From the looks of things, it will be a long road ahead. All we can do is hope they find a cure soon and we do not loose all Pennsylvania walnut.
http://woodworkingnetwork.com/Thousand-Cankers-Disease-in-Pennsylvania-Trees/2011-08-12/Article.aspx?oid=1334693
http://woodworkingnetwork.com/Walnut-lumber-transport-banned-by-Pennsylvania/2011-08-14/NewsArticle.aspx?oid=1334710&fid=WWN-INDUSTRY-NEWS&aid=2155
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