Invasive pest threatens Kashmir’s poplar, willow plantations

Invasive pest threatens Kashmir’s poplar, willow plantations

Pulwama, Aug 19: An invasive pest identified as Drosicha turkistanica has emerged as a growing threat to poplar and willow plantations in parts of south Kashmir, leaving farmers worried over the possible impact on trees that form an important source of livelihood for many families. Farmers in the Hanjipora area of Pulwama district said they first noticed unusual snow-white, cotton-like masses covering poplar and willow trees nearly two years ago…