Pests in the Urban Landscape

Originally published in the Summer 2021 issue of Utah Pest News. Many problems that gardeners experience with tomato plants are not related to insect pests or diseases. Rather, they are associated with adverse growing conditions due to the environment or production practices.

Poison oak is a common native plant in California, growing everywhere from oak woodlands to urban parks. Chances are, you or someone you know has suffered from a rash due to poison oak at some point. The best way to avoid exposure to poison oak is knowing how to identify it.

California has abundant wildlands forests, rangeland, open areas, wildlife refuges and national, state, and local parks that need protection from invasive plants.

Have you seen wild turkeys wandering through your neighborhood? These American birds were once on the verge of extinction but now can be found foraging for food in urban and suburban neighborhoods. Some people enjoy the sight of a flock of wild turkeys strutting by their house.

Wildlife in California is an important natural resource that many people appreciate in their natural habitats and strive to protect. However, sometimes vertebrate animals can become pests in our homes, gardens, schools, parks, and landscapes and management efforts are needed.