Ash Dieback in the UK

We are devastated by the introduction of Ash Dieback into the UK and in particular with the Scottish Borders and Northumberland; the impact could result in the loss of one of our most glorious species of trees.

To help contain the disease and stop it spreading to more ash trees and creating further devastation, we know that knowledge and early intervention are crucial.

Understanding what Ash Dieback is, how to identify it, and what to do if you find it, are the keys to helping to contain this disease.

What is Ash Dieback?

Ash Dieback or Hymenoscyphus Fraxineus is a disease which affects ash trees. It was first identified in the UK in 2012 in a Buckinghamshire nursery and has since been observed all over the United Kingdom. It is thought to have spread from continental Europe through the introduction of infected trees.

The effects of the disease within continental Europe have been devastating, with widespread damage to the populations of ash trees throughout the mainland. Younger ash trees are far more susceptible to the disease, and although older trees are still at risk it has been found that they take longer to succumb to the disease because they are more firmly established.

Primarily spread by the wind, the spores from infected trees can be blown huge distances, infecting many more ash trees in the process. In addition to this the disease can also be spread via the movement and displacement of an infected tree or trees for example through re-planting or logging.

It is essential any sightings of Ash Dieback are reported as soon as possible after identification. This is because the disease must be quarantined to prevent further infestation and spread.

Things to look out for when identifying Ash Dieback:

  • Wilting leaves with black or brown discolouration
  • Small lesions on the bark and underneath the bark lesions the wood will have turned a brownish-grey colour.
  • In late summer and early autumn tiny fungi will be found on the leaf stalks in damp areas

Who to Contact if you believe you have identified Ash Dieback: Food and Environment Research Agency on 0300 100 0321 or the Forestry and Land Scotland on 0300 067 6000.

For more information and pictures of Ash Dieback we recommend visiting the Forestry Scotland website.