Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Frequency Of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Information Provided In The Media: Impacts, Ecology, And Citizen Outreach, Anna Killeen Cameron, Casey Fellhoelter, Bevin Hardy, Lucas Smith

EURēCA: Exhibition of Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement

An analysis of 165 media articles about the hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA), an invasive insect killing native hemlocks in eastern North America, was undertaken to determine possible influences of the public’s desire and ability to help with invasive species prevention and control. All of the articles mention at least one of the following: HWA impacts to ecosystems (55.2%), hemlock characteristics (47%), and the value of hemlocks (38.8%). Articles that mention HWA impacts and hemlock value also mention associated topics such as subsequent impacts from hemlock loss to shade and temperature control of forests and streams, trout and recreational fishing, and …