Woodland managers, landowners, the forest industry and tree nurseries are being urged to remain vigilant after the Forestry Commission and Forest Research identified the tree pathogen Phytophthora pluvialis in woodlands for the first time Wales.
The fungal-like pathogen known to affect a variety of tree species has been discovered on the Welsh Government Woodland Estate in Dyfi Forest, Gwynedd. The disease has also been discovered in Devon, Cornwall, and Lochcarron in Scotland.
As the disease has never been detected in Europe, research is ongoing to understand if other potentially susceptible species could become impacted.
Nicola Spence, the UK Chief Plant Health Officer, said: “We are continuing to take swift and robust action against the findings of Phytophthora pluvialis, as part of our well-established biosecurity protocol used for tree pests and diseases.
“I urge all sectors to support efforts to tackle this pathogen by checking the health of western hemlock and Douglas-fir trees. Key symptoms to look for are lesions on the stem, branch or roots. Any sightings should be reported to the Forestry Commission via the Tree Alert website.” (link below)
Phytophthora pluvialis is a fungus-like pathogen known to affect a variety of tree species, including western hemlock, Douglas fir, tanoak and several pine species (in particular radiata pine). It is reported to cause needle cast (where needles turn brown and fall off), shoot dieback, and lesions on the stem, branches, and roots.
Forestry Commission, Forest Research and the Animal and Plant Health Agency are rapidly conducting further surveillance and diagnostic analysis to understand more about the pathogen and ensure that any required control measures are swiftly undertaken to stop its spread. This includes extensive ground and aerial surveillance as part of a UK wide survey, and comprehensive research and modelling to explore factors such as climatic and potential species susceptibility and to help inform the management response.
Climate Change Minister Julie James said: “We will continue to work with partner agencies across the UK to share information, experience and understanding to ensure a joint approach to monitoring and managing the situation.”
Landowners are asked to report any suspect trees via Tree Alert.
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