One of the most destructive pests have been found here on Long Island. Scientists believe that Southern Pine Beetles, never before seen this far North, made their way here due to warmer winters and climate change. The beetles preference is the "Pitch Pine" , which make up the heart of the 'Pine Barrens'. These pines protect our pristine water source which is a natural aquifer. The beetles can destroy a pine in 3-4 months. Thousands of pines have been felled in an effort to stop the beetles.