Sudden Oak Death virus found in 2 plantations on Island

Investigations carried out on trees across the Island have found traces of a rare disease that has the ability to kill trees very quickly.

Phytopthora Ramorum – otherwise known as ‘Sudden Oak Death’ has been found in Larch Trees.

The disease produces large numbers of infective spores and has only made a recent appearance in Britain.

It’s been identified in West Baldwin and Ballaugh Plantations; the only way to control the spread is to fell the infected trees.

This process will begin imminently with roughly 74 acres to be cleared in both the Ballaugh and Colden plantations.

Colden will be closed throughout the process, and access will be restricted to Ballaugh, with this in mind you’re asked to observe and adhere to all site signage and information notices.