Gold spotted oak borer in Central California?

[Teddpster]

Hey guys. Looking to do a tree removal for a customer and wanted some information on what exactly is killing this red oak in northern Santa Barbara County. My preliminary research suggests possibly The Gold Spotted Oak Borer, however I have not been able to confirm any reports of that insect this far north. Anyone have information for me? It would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

[rarefish383]

Not sure about out there, but in the Mid Atlantic, something has been killing many Red Oaks for years. I've been retired from tree work for a long time, and my Dad had our applicators license, so he was the one up on insects and diseases. Your pics are riddled with some kind of borer. If you peel the bark off are there lateral tracks under the bark? Try posting this in one of the Pro forums, those guys might not check out this thread?