Ash dieback

In the UK, ash dieback was first recorded in the in the south-east of England in 2012. This disease is spreading across the country, and there are several instances across the East Midlands. This poses a significant risk to our ash tree population and Nottinghamshire’s highway network.

It is unknown how long the fungus has been in the area before the symptoms became apparent, perhaps some years. This is one of the reasons trees must be closely observed and managed.

When ash trees become infected with ash dieback, the branches can eventually die and become brittle. These branches can then fall onto roads and pavements, creating danger for pedestrians and road users.

The latest evidence from The Woodland Trust suggests that at least 80% of the UK’s ash will succumb to the disease, impacting both people and wildlife.

What is Ash dieback?

Ash dieback, also known as Chalara, is a highly destructive disease that affects ash trees. It is caused by a fungus called Hymenoscyphus fraxineus

It causes leaf loss, and crown dieback, and ultimately leads to the death of the tree. The disease has the potential to devastate our ash tree population, which not only impacts the natural beauty of our surroundings but also affects the ecosystem and biodiversity.

How does it spread?

Ash dieback spreads through wind-borne spores and can also be spread through the movement of infected ash plants or wood. Once a tree is infected, the disease can spread rapidly within woodland and urban environments, making early detection and management crucial.

What are the signs of Ash dieback?

• Wilting and blackening of the leaves
• Diamond-shaped lesions on the bark
• Crown dieback and loss of leaves
• Epicormic growth (shoots growing from the trunk or branches)

What is being done?
Nottinghamshire County Council, in partnership with Via East Midlands, is working to monitor and manage the spread of Ash dieback on the highway. This includes tree surveys, the removal of infected trees, and research into resistant strains of ash trees.

We are working together to protect our trees and our roads and prevent the further spread of ash dieback on the highway. We are asking landowners to stay vigilant and take appropriate action to manage the impact of Ash dieback on their trees and woodland. Together, we can help keep the highways safe and preserve the health and beauty of our local environment for future generations.

What can you do to help?

• Report any suspected cases of Ash dieback on the highway to Nottinghamshire County Council or Via East Midlands
• Regularly check ash trees for signs of the disease, and once confirmed, identify how the disease has progressed and whether any secondary agents are present, such as Armillaria (Honey Fungus)
• Remove dead or dying branches to reduce the initial risk of danger. Once the fungus infects trees, the dead or dying branches can become brittle and fail
• Replant where possible to reduce Ash dieback's negative effect on the landscape
• Avoid transporting ash wood or plants from infected areas to prevent the spread of the disease
• Stay informed and educate others about the signs and management of Ash dieback

For more information and guidance, please visit treecouncil.org.uk or contact a qualified arboriculturist for advice. Nottinghamshire County Council Trading Standards Approved Trader Scheme has a list of contractors that have been vetted and approved by trading standards professionals.

Checklist before undertaking any tree works:

• Are your trees covered by a Tree Preservation Order?
• Are your trees located in a Conservation Area?
• Do you require a felling licence from the Forestry Commission?
• Is an ecological survey required? Are features present in the tree such as cavities and woodpecker holes that increase the potential for bats to roost?
• Are there any nesting birds present?
• Do you require traffic management to carry out tree works near roads safely?

By remaining vigilant and taking proactive measures, landowners can play a vital role in managing the impact of Ash dieback on our ash tree population and our highway network.