The Forestry Commission (FC) has confirmed a further finding of the tree disease Phytophthora pluvialis in Shropshire, as well as subsequent tree-health protection measures to combat it from spreading.
The measures include a new demarcated area (see map below), which will come into force on next Thursday (June 16).
Within these boundries, the movement of any wood, isolated bark and trees (including live trees, felled or fallen trees, fruit, seeds, leaves or foliage) of the genus Tsuga (Hemlock); Pseudotsuga (Douglas-firs); Pinus (Pine); and Notholithocarpus will be prohibited from the aforementioned June date.
Provision is made within this notice to enable plant health inspectors to authorise movements and processing of material from the demarcated area where this can be achieved without risking the spread of P. pluvialis.
Furthermore, there will an additional restriction on the felling of susceptible material within the area, unless the FC has been notified, in writing, in advance.
Landowners must provide notice of their intention to fell relevant material at least 14 days in advance of any felling in the demarcated areas.
Phytophthora pluvialis
In September 2021, Phytophthora pluvialis was discovered in a woodland in Cornwall, England, affecting mature western hemlock and Douglas-fir trees. Further outbreaks have since been found in Devon, Cumbria, Surrey and multiple sites in Scotland and Wales.
It is a fungal-like pathogen that is known to cause needle cast, shoot dieback and lesions on the stem, branches and roots.
