Hi Mark,

Thank you for contacting us! Your tree has been attacked by the Spongy Moth caterpillars (formerly named Gypsy Moth). What you see is the damage and excretions from the caterpillar. They should be in the moth stage by now. The moths are harmless and are around for about 2 weeks to mate and lay eggs. 

All you can do is keep the tree watered, especially in this heat and kill any moths or egg masses you see. The tree will recover if it is healthy and we don't have a second stressor such as drought. 

I am attaching information for you to read.

I hope all goes well! Let us know if you want to be on our mailing list.

Cynthia MGV