Insect Invasion Threatens Şavşat's Iconic Spruce Trees

Located at the eastern end of the Black Sea Region, Şavşat is renowned as the 'calm city' of Artvin, drawing nature enthusiasts, particularly during the autumn season. However, this idyllic haven is at risk of losing its cherished natural beauty nowadays.

The spruce trees once celebrated as the 'calm city' at the 2015 Cittaslow General Assembly in Milan, Italy, are now under siege by an invasive insect. Residents stress that immediate intervention is imperative to safeguard a significant portion of Karagöl Sahara National Park from further harm.

Forest Under Siege

The destructive beetle infiltrates spruce trees, exploiting vulnerabilities from, underneath or through any available crack. Feeding on the essential sap layer between the bark and the tree, the beetle leaves a trail of reproduction and devastation before moving on to its next target.

Villagers report extensive areas within the Karagöl Sahara National Park, where hundreds of trees have withered nearby. Frustration arises from the Forestry Administration's hands-off approach in National Parks, preventing the removal of these dried trees.

Witnesses attest to the alarming rate of decline, noting that within approximately 15 days, the count of withered trees has surged from 5 to 35. Witnesses also emphasize that a single tree can endure this perilous state for no more than a fleeting ten days.

Deploying Pheromone Traps

To combat the insect onslaught, a specialized trap named 'pheromone' is deployed in the region. These traps, with a white receptacle at their base, contain both the scent of the female insect and a lethal toxin. Male insects, drawn to the scent, become ensnared and succumb to the insecticide.

However, villagers stress the imperative need for regular trap maintenance by volunteers, advocating that traps be placed within the forest rather than solely along roadways for the benefit of officials.

A Call to Action

Şavşat villagers lament the desiccation of a substantial expanse—roughly 40 to 50 acres—within Karagöl Sahara National Park. Urging authorities to act swiftly, they recommend relocating trees in the park, facilitating replanting with pine saplings, and intensifying state efforts in spraying to counter the infestation.