Hello Emily,

It looks like your red oak has anthracnose, a leaf disease. Unfortunately, oak trees are susceptible to many diseases and insect attacks. Read more here:

And here: https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/oak-diseases-insect-pests/

There have been reports of Anthracnose appearing in many tree species in Michigan this year. Read about Anthracnose in oaks here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/anthracnose_diseases_of_shade_trees

However, the only accurate way to assess what is going on with the trees is to send a sample and/or picture to the MSU Extension Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab. To learn how to submit a sample, go to:

https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/

Read the attached to help identify whether the trees have oak wilt. https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/smart-gardening-to-prevent-oak-wilt

There is an organization: The Michigan Oak Wilt Coalition which lists arborists who are trained in oak wilt management. Go to: https://www.michiganoakwilt.org/oak-wilt-qualified-vendor-directory

Also, local governments have rules about the proper disposal of wood of trees that died from oak wilt disease and must be contacted if oak wilt is the cause of death.

You can also contact a certified arborist at www.treesaregood.org, the International Society of Arboriculture to find an arborist in your area.

Thanks for contacting Ask Extension.