A Florida caterpillar invasion has seen the tiny bugs swarm trees and parks across the state. Residents have reported the spiny white and yellow creatures dropping out of oak trees, swarming cars ...

In addition, the White Oak is regarded as “the most important hardwood tree” in the eastern half of the country. The trees are also vital to multiple wildlife species.

White oaks are among the target species for the UT Tree Improvement Program, which has been working for decades to improve tree genetics. Scott Schlarbaum, UTIA distinguished professor of forestry ...