Test Valley trees infected with ash dieback
A number of Ash trees around the borough have sadly been infected with Ash dieback disease.
As part of Test Valley Borough Council’s ongoing tree management, various surveys have been undertaken following the rise of the disease, known as Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, across England. The disease is widespread with estimates suggesting it is likely to lead to the loss of 95 per cent of Ash trees in the country within the next five to ten years.
While surveys are still continuing, Ash trees in woodland across Test Valley have been infected with the disease. The disease can be deadly to 95 per cent of ash trees, which have little resilience against the infection. Once an Ash tree is infected, the disease restricts the flow of water and nutrients, leading to its rapid decline.
The council has been surveying and putting plans together since last year after the rise of the disease began to grow. As part of this work, countryside officers are continuing to identify those Ash trees that will need removing in the first phase of work. Where felling is required, an appropriate replanting strategy will be agreed.
Those included in the first stage will be infected trees that are in closer proximity to paths, roadsides and woodland boundaries. Work will take place this year, though only essential activities will take place during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Subject to Forestry Commission approval and Tree Protection Orders, the council is exploring all options for replanting at this early stage. Each area of woodland will be appraised before deciding what replanting is likely to be most effective. Where possible, the public will also be encouraged to take part in the planting of new trees.
Throughout 2019, the council felled 120 trees of all varieties as part of its annual replacement programme, and replanted 170 in their place.
Community and leisure portfolio holder, councillor Ian Jeffrey, said: “This is really important work across not just Test Valley, but much further afield, too. It’s very sad that so many trees have been infected, but we are as prepared as possible and will explore all available options in managing the spread of this disease within the borough.”