Four mature Horse Chestnut trees to be felled

[merryb]

While walking my dog in beautiful dog park local to me. A park full of native and ornamental mature trees I learnt with saddness that four mature chestnut trees are going to be felled soon as they have chestnut canker. I looked at the forestry comission site to find out more about the disease - here is the link

http://www.forestry.gov.uk/fr/INFD-6KYBGV

There seems to be no solution at the present time.

It seems so sad that trees that trees planted in the 18th century should be bleeding to death. Although Horse Chestnuts are not native British trees they are now part of our landscape and for many of us childhood memories of playground conker fights.

Processionary moths in Oaks can be dealt with apparently and this harsh winter in the UK may have helped to diminish the risk to oaks - here is the link about this pest

http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/fr/infd-6urjcf

They are not being planted at the olympic site because the hairs on the caterpillars can cause irritation to the skin humans and animals.

With blessing and hope for the future of our trees

Merryb

[Huathe]

Here in the US, we have Horsechestnut and Buckeyes. I have not heard of these diseases/pests here but that does not mean they are not here. I will have to check out ENTS and see.

JP