Cause Salt damage to shore pine is a common phenomenon along the coast in certain years. Violent storms and high winds along the coast pick up salt spray (usually in winter) and can blow this inland a considerable distance. Salt interferes with normal biological function of the needle and will kill part or all of a shore pine needle. There is a clear landscape effect, with trees in exposed windward hillsides overlooking the ocean often getting the full brunt of the salt and the more inland hilltops occasionally showing symptoms as well.
Symptoms Needles redden and die, or will have portions of the needle die depending on how much salt is deposited. This can give the tree crowns a singed or scorched look, which may only occur on the windward side of the crown.
Cultural control Trees often recover so no action is needed. Plant Sitka Spruce, which are more tolerant of salt spray.
Reference Reeb, J. E., and Shaw, D. C. 2010. Common insect pests and diseases of shore pine on the Oregon coast. Extension Service, Oregon State University.