Bark Beetles and Drought Devastate New Mexico Forests

New Mexico’s forests are in crisis as over 209,000 acres of trees died last year—triple the previous year’s loss—thanks to a deadly combo of bark beetles, drought, and record heat. These insects, normally helpful in thinning weak trees, are now overwhelming the state’s stressed forests, with 70% of New Mexico in moderate drought. While dead trees raise wildfire risks, they also play a role in forest renewal. Experts warn that climate-driven drought and warming are the real culprits, and without a major monsoon, more tree die-offs are likely—unless nature gets a serious rain check. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/3ab9c0079fa4498d