Tool Shed

Our Tool Shed is a resource library designed for professionals working within all aspects of park maintenance. We continually research best maintenance practices from all industries to gather videos, articles, templates, and websites and store them in one place for our members. We spend the time to sift through the noise and provide you with valuable information when you need it, so you can focus on developing solutions. If there is something you need but cannot find, reach out and share your specific needs.

Stakeholder Management Resource Management Financial Management Benchmarks Playgrounds, Wellness, and Physical Equipment Pools, Boating, and Swimming Areas Trails and Greenways Park Structures Accessibility and Inclusion Custodial and Grounds Infrastructure Greener Approach Athletic Fields and Sport Facilities Natural Landscapes and Open Spaces Invasive Species and Pest Control Irrigation and Nutrition Journeymen's Guide Mechanic's Guide Contractor's Guide Front Office Guide Landscape

Tree-of-Heaven

PennState Extension

Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) also known as ailanthus, is a rapidly growing deciduous tree native to both northeast and central China, as well as Taiwan. Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive pest, is particularly attracted to Tree-of-heaven.

Treating Black Walnuts with Insecticides for Spotted Lanternfly Control

PennState Extension

Recommendations for safe pesticide applications to control spotted lanternfly infestations.

Do Lichens Cause Harm to Trees?

PennState Extension

Lichens are often thought to be a pest or disease to trees and shrubs.

Why are My Spruce Trees Dying?

PennState Extension

Learn how to identify types of spruce trees, symptoms of two common fungal diseases, and what if any treatments are available.

White Pine Weevil

PennState Extension

The white pine weevil is considered the most destructive insect pest of eastern white pine in North America.

Western Conifer Seed Bug

PennState Extension

The western conifer seed bug feeds on Douglas-fir seeds and other species of pine. This bug can also become a nuisance to homeowners in the fall.

Tuliptree Scale

PennState Extension

The tuliptree scale is a pest of yellow poplar, or tuliptree, magnolia, and linden. This soft scale insect is so prolific that it can cover twigs and branches.

Spruce Spider Mite

PennState Extension

The spruce spider mite attacks spruce, arborvitae, juniper, hemlock, pine, Douglas-fir, and occasionally other conifers.

Fall Cankerworm

PennState Extension

The fall cankerworm is a native pest of hardwood trees in North America. It causes some defoliation in the forest every year, with larger outbreaks occasionally.

Elongate Hemlock Scale

PennState Extension

The elongate hemlock scale, sometimes known as the fiorinia scale, is a serious armored scale insect pest on ornamental and forest hemlock trees in Pennsylvania.

Elm Spanworm

PennState Extension

The elm spanworm is a serious defoliator of hardwood shade and forest trees in the eastern United States.

Eastern Tent Caterpillar

PennState Extension

The eastern tent caterpillar has been observed in the United States since 1646. Outbreaks frequently occur at eight to ten year intervals.

Controlling Understory Fern Competition for Regeneration Success

PennState Extension

Dense understories of hay-scented, New York, and bracken fern can interfere with the regeneration of hardwood forests, threatening their sustainability.

Using Insect and Tick Repellents Safely

PennState Extension

Repellents are chemicals applied to provide relief and protection from mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting pests. Proper and safe use of these chemicals is necessary.

Oriental Bittersweet

PennState Extension

Oriental bittersweet is a non-native woody, perennial vine that covers and kills native plants by blocking sunlight, weighing the plants down, and girdling stems and trunks.