This page provides brief information and links to information about forest pests and diseases that may be of interest to people living and working in North West England.
Phytophthora ramorum
There is an ongoing and fast changing outbreak of this fungus like pathogen on Larch across parts of the UK including Cumbria. For up to date information and guidance visit the Phytophthora ramorum homepage and see the regional update.
We now have a list of agents qualified to deal with Phytophthora ramorum.
Acute Oak Decline
This has been found in several places across south east England and parts of Wales. So far it has not been found in North West England.
Red Band Needle Blight
This has been found in a number of forests across North West England. Whilst it has been found on a range of conifer species it is most commonly found on Pine species.
In response to this disease we are no longer planting Corsican Pine and limiting our planting of Scost Pine. We are also trying to thin all our Pine woodlands as research suggest that more airflow through the forest canaopy reduces the infection.
Further Information
Please visit Forestry Commission Plant Health for information on all forest health matters.
