Deborah McCullough
Bio
Dr. Deborah McCullough’s research focuses on the ecology, impacts and management of native and invasive forest insects. She has been at the forefront of invasive forest insect research since detecting and cutting down the first emerald ash borer–infested ash tree in 2002. Her work aims to understand relationships among forest insect populations, their hosts and natural enemies and climate, and to use this knowledge to develop practical, sustainable management strategies. Studies from her lab have informed federal, state and municipal policies in the U.S., as well as in Canada and Europe. Current field projects address beech bark disease, hemlock woolly adelgid, native longhorned beetle communities and insect pests affecting chestnut production. Her research results are regularly shared with resource managers, regulatory officials, arborists and other stakeholders to protect and enhance the health of forests.
Concentrations
- Forest insect ecology and management
- Invasive forest insects (Emerald ash borer, Beech bark disease, Hemlock woolly adelgid)
- Forest health
Courses Taught
ENT407: Diseases and Insects of Forest and Shade Trees
Diseases, insects, and environmental problems affecting trees in forests, parks, suburbs and nurseries. Methods of control.
Research
McCullough’s research focuses on forest insect ecology and management, spanning studies that enhance understanding of forest insect biology, impacts and dynamics while generating practical solutions for pressing problems. Much of her work addresses invasive forest insects because of the economic and ecological costs of major pests. Her extensive research on emerald ash borer has examined detection and survey methods, population dynamics, host preference, ecological and economic impacts, options for protecting urban and landscape trees and strategies for area-wide management. Current projects evaluate stand conditions in post-invasion black ash forests to assess the long-term outlook for this forest type. Other studies examine climate and site factors affecting hemlock woolly adelgid, the progression of beech bark disease and insect vectors of oak wilt. Her lab also conducts an annual statewide survey to detect specific non-native woodborers introduced into Michigan, while providing key information on native longhorned beetle communities.
Extension
McCullough’s extension activities are closely integrated with her research on forest insect ecology and management. She provides practical guidance and objective information on emerald ash borer and other invasive forest insects to resource managers, regulatory officials, arborists, landscapers and property owners across North America and internationally. Her research and outreach efforts have played a major role in shaping perceptions of emerald ash borer and promoting integrated approaches to ash and forest pest management. She continues to direct the national EmeraldAshBorer.info website, recognized as a leading source of objective information on the pest.
Within Michigan, she frequently works with state agency personnel on issues related to invasive and native forest insects, serving in advisory roles on federal and state regulations, pest surveys and control tactics and silvicultural strategies to reduce pest damage or spread. She also collaborates with extension educators to provide training and answer questions for foresters, arborists, nature centers and chestnut or Christmas tree producers. Management recommendations for a wide range of pests, including sap-feeders, bark beetles, woodborers and defoliators are often developed from findings in her lab’s research.
Publications
Related Work
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What were MSU Entomologists up to this Summer?
Published on September 17, 2025
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Recent detection of scale species on fir trees in Michigan Christmas tree farms
Published on August 29, 2025
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What You Need to Know About Michigan’s Ticks
Published on July 25, 2025
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Michigan Christmas Tree Pest Management Guide
Published on March 20, 2025
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New spotted lanternfly bulletin for Michigan homeowners and residents
Published on September 23, 2024
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Spotted Lanternfly – A Guide for Homeowners and Residents in Michigan
Published on September 17, 2024
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Biology and Management of the Lesser Chestnut Weevil in Michigan Chestnut Orchards
Published on June 27, 2024
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Balsam Woolly Adelgid in Michigan
Published on May 28, 2024
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Balsam Woolly Adelgid in Michigan - Great Lakes Christmas Tree Journal
Published on May 1, 2024