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Oak Processionary Moth

Oak processionary moth (OPM) caterpillars are priority pests which target trees in the Quercus genus. They were accidentally introduced into England in 2005, but thanks to strict survey and control programme, they have not become established outside of the South of England.

Fritha West  •  18 Apr 2022

Blog

Beech Leaf Disease

A new disease of beech trees (Fagus spp.) named ‘Beech leaf disease’ (BLD) is spreading through forest areas in eastern USA and Canada. Charles Lane and Tom Prior discuss the threat posed to UK woods. 

Tom Prior  •  14 Jul 2022

Video

How to use the forum

How to use the Observatree forum

00:18:55

Video

Bronze Birch Borer - October 2022

Bronze birch borer – an overview. Bronze birch borer is one of several Agrilus species which are tree pests. Although not present in the UK, it has damaged and killed European birch species where these have been planted in its native North American range. It is considered a significant potential threat to birch in the UK, were it to be introduced here. This webinar will provide an overview of bronze birch borer, including the beetle’s life cycle, it’s pest status in north American, the threat it poses to the UK and a summary of a recent research project.

00:46:09

Video

Winter Webinar - Forestry Commission Tree Health Champions

Emma Aspin, Biosecurity Officer for the Forestry Commission, will be joining us to talk about their staff tree health champion scheme. 13 12 2023

00:36:51

Blog

Host of the month - Maple

This month Matt Parratt looks at Maples (Sapindaceae family), Asian longhorn beetle and Citrus longhorn beetle. 

Matt Parratt  •  19 Sep 2024

Blog

Host of the month - Ash

Matt Parratt highlights Common ash (Fraxinus excelsior), the well-known ash dieback disease and its associated pest, Emerald ash borer. 

Matt Parratt  •  14 Nov 2024