Red Pine Tree Has Black Insects And Bark Is Falling Off

Question From: M. Cmeyla - WISCONSIN
Q: I have three red pine trees in my back yard that are starting to show signs of some sort of pest. The bark is coming off in large chunks and there appears to be sawdust under the bark. Also present are very small, black winged insects with some sort of proboscis on their hind end.

A:

If you value your trees I recommend you have an on-site inspection from a certified arborist - a tree doctor. You can find one here:  http://www.isa-arbor.com/faca/findArborist.aspx . There are many diseases and bugs attacking trees and they have been weakened by heat and drought. If you value these trees, don't delay. Happy Yardening, Nancy