How Iowa's warm February is changing the environment

1. Insects and pathogens have emerged early, Tivon Freeley, Iowa DNR's forest health leader, tells Axios. That means all oak tree pruning needs to stop for the year to prevent the spread of oak wilt.
2. Iowa's maple syrup season was shortened. Sap flow happens while it's in the 40s during the day and freezing at night
3. Buds are already swelling on trees. That could increase the risk of branch damage if there's a late spring snowfall.

And here are your takeaways:

• "The house sparrows that live on my front porch are starting to build their nests and I want to put a little sign on their nest that says 'NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!'" — Lydia Fine, North Liberty
• "I've finished spring clean up in my yard, so I have to store five bags of yard waste until April." — Mark Carlson, West Des Moines
• "I am missing the cold and the warm sun at the same time. The word: 'apricity' — the warmth of the sunshine in winter." — Sarah Betts Susanin, Des Moines