Many white pines in New Hampshire have been infected by fungi that cause their needles to turn orange prematurely. However, biologists are telling the public not to be alarmed, as most of the trees should be able to weather the infection. In fact, the needles should turn green by August.

The fungi infecting the trees are native to New Hampshire, and affect the needles as they are starting to emerge in spring. The fungi infections are particularly bad this year due to the heavy rainfall of last season, say experts. Warmer, more humid springs seem to favor the spread of the fungi.