First Welsh case of new tree disease discovered in Gwynedd

The first Welsh case of a new disease which infects trees has been confirmed in a forest in Gwynedd.

Phytophthora pluvialis, a fungal-like pathogen known to affect a variety of tree species, has been discovered in an area of woodland run by the Welsh Government in Dyfi Forest.

It is reported to cause needle cast – where needles turn brown and fall off – as well as shoot dieback and lesions on the stem, branches and roots.

The disease, which is know to affect western hemlock, Douglas fir and several pine species, had already been discovered in parts of England and Scotland but this is the first confirmed case in Wales.

Dyfi forest covers an area of around 6,000 hectares, mostly to the north of the Afon Dyfi between Dolgellau and Machynlleth.

As the disease has never been detected in Europe before, research is ongoing to understand if other potentially susceptible species could become impacted.

This will help inform which control measures are appropriate and the potential impact this pathogen could have on the landscape and the forestry sector.

Climate Change Minister Julie James said: “We will continue to work with partner agencies across the UK to share information, experience and understanding to ensure a joint approach to monitoring and managing the situation.”

A symptom guide has been prepared that provides more information on Phytophthora pluvialis.

People are urged to report sightings via the TreeAlert online portal.

Main image by UK Government shows symptomatic trees from which Phytophthora pluvialis has been detected.