The Forestry Fee (FC) has launched new measures to take fight the unfold of the tree pathogen Phytophthora pluvialis.

The UK chief plant well being officer has confirmed additional findings of the illness in woodlands within the affected areas: Devon, Cornwall and Cumbria. In consequence, prolonged demarcated areas have been launched.

Though Phytophthora pluvialis has been detected on mature western hemlock and Douglas-fir timber at these websites, it’s as but unknown if the pathogen is the direct explanation for the noticed signs. Investigations are ongoing to find out whether or not different elements are at play.

These extension notices, which assist to stop unintentional motion of the pathogen, come into pressure on Thursday, January 27.

The notices prohibit the motion of any wooden, remoted bark and timber (together with dwell timber, felled or fallen timber, fruit, seeds, leaves or foliage) of the genus Tsuga, Pseudotsuga, Pinus and Notholithocarpus, that has originated throughout the demarcated space.

Provision is made throughout the notices to allow plant well being inspectors to authorise actions and processing of fabric from the demarcated space the place this may be achieved with out risking the unfold of Phytophthora pluvialis.

The notices additionally now embrace an extra restriction on the felling of vulnerable materials throughout the demarcated areas, except the FC has been notified in writing prematurely.

Landowners should present discover of their intention to fell related materials a minimum of 14 days prematurely of any felling within the demarcated areas. Felling might solely start as soon as written authorisation is offered the Forestry Fee

Woodland managers, landowners, tree nurseries and the forestry trade are additionally being urged by authorities to stay vigilant for indicators of the illness.

It’s reported to trigger needle solid (the place needles flip brown and fall off), shoot dieback, and lesions on the stem, branches, and roots.