THE worst tree disease since the Dutch Elm outbreak in the 1970s has been detected in Cumbria.
The fungal infection, Ash Dieback is widespread in the UK and there is no cure for the disease,
Once a tree is first infected through the leaves or twigs, the speed at which a tree is overcome varies.
Young trees are more suspectable and die within a couple of years, mature trees usually take longer and can also succumb to secondary fungal infections.
Large trees can become dangerous as a result of both Ash Dieback and the secondary infection long before they die.
Cumbria County Council’s tree specialists have been surveying Cumbria’s Resilient Road Networks, to gather data and record where ash trees are and what level of infection they are showing.
To date 5326 Ash trees have been surveyed, both on the highway and close by on private land which may affect the highways network.
21% of ash trees have been identified as severely diseased and require action to protect the highways network.
Cumbria County Council are working closely with districts, boroughs and parish councils, as well as members of the public who own Ash trees close to public highways.
“This is very sad news for the UK and also for Cumbria and is out of everyone’s control,” Cllr Keith Little, Cumbria County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said
“Ash trees are one of the most prominent trees in gardens, fields and hedges, and we now need urgent action by the owners of infected trees to ensure they don't become a danger to people or property.
“All trees should be regularly inspected for safety by a suitably qualified arboriculturist but if you own Ash trees it will be useful to learn how to recognise the symptoms of the disease so that you are 2well prepared to deal with it as early as possible.
We are suggesting that you go to the Woodland Trust website as they have gathered lots of information about the disease and how to spot it.
“Our priority is public safety, and I would like to thank members of the public, districts, boroughs and parish councils who own ash trees, for their co-operation in felling the infected trees.”
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