Caretaker's note: Oak Wilt is a fungal disease that affects Live oaks, Shumard oaks, Red oaks (also called Spanish oaks), Black jack oaks and other members of the Red oak family. Experts have developed this Eight Step Program to correctly identify the problem. The fungus spreads through the root system and can be carried by beetles that are infected with the fungus. Proper pruning and careful wood storage can help prevent the spread of the disease. Oak Wilt, and other tree diseases are another reason to preserve Ashe juniper species in a woodland.

Treatment was provided by Paula Johnson's company Oak Wilt Specialists of Texas.