| Foresty Commission programme manager: | James Pendlebury |
| Research contact and location: | Joan Webber Forest Research |
This programme cover a range of small projects resulting from the major re-organisation of resources required in 2003 and 2004 to cope with the outbreak of Phytophthora ramorum. The principal research is into:
disease of alder. This is a relatively new disease, which has arisen as a result of hybridisation between two species of Phytophthora, and is now present in many European countries. The prevalence of the disease is regularly surveyed and other research directed at the epidemiology and control of the disease.
Phytophthora
Alder dieback. This is a significant problem in northern Britain and unrelated to the Phytophthora disease. Research is aimed at elucidating the cause and investigating whether there are realistic options for managing it.
Oak dieback.
The programme has a high scientific content and will generate scientific papers alongside practical advice to managers.
Commissioned reports
No reports available at this time
This is a widespread problem in Britain and has been known for many years. Because its cause, or causes, are unknown, the advice that can be given to managers is limited. Research aims to investigate possible causes and to study the distribution and progress of the disorder to improve advice on risk management.