Forestry Commission responds after new tree disease in England spreads
The UK Chief Plant Health Officer has confirmed further findings of the disease Phytophthora pluvialis in previously affected woodlands, following further investigation.
Phytophthora pluvialis is a fungus-like pathogen known to affect a variety of trees including western hemlock, tanoak, pine (Pinus radiata, Pinus patula and Pinus strobus) and Douglas-fir.
The more recent findings have resulted in extensions to the demarcated areas first introduced in December 2021 to help prevent the accidental movement of the pathogen.
The two notices are as follows:
- Demarcated Area No.6 Notice comes into force on 27th January 2022 and replaces Notice No.4, issued during December 2021, and applies to areas within Cornwall and Devon. The accompanying Notice No.6 contains a description of this boundary.
- Demarcated Area No. 7 Notice also comes into force on 27th January 2022 and replaces Notice No.5, issued during December 2021, and applies to parts of Cumbria. The accompanying Notice No.7 contains a description of the boundary.
The Notices prohibit 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, Pseudotsuga, Pinus and Notholithocarpus, that has originated within the demarcated area.
Please see Further reading section for links to notices.
Further reading: