Phytophthora ramorum - The Food and Environment Research ...

• Felling or pruning of infected trees depending on the part of the tree infected and the extent of
the infection.
• Implementation of measures to prevent re-infection at the site. These may, for example, include a
prohibition on planting susceptible plants in contaminated soil, removal or sterilisation of
contaminated soil.
Containment measures in situations where immediate eradication is not deemed appropriate (for
example, sites considered a lower risk or where comprehensive eradication would completely destroy
the character of a historic garden) may include a protocol of measures. These measures will require
a degree of flexibility to take account of site differences but are likely to include:
Biosecurity protocol
• A regular programme of cleaning to remove plant debris from the surface of paths and
standing areas.
• Safe disposal of all waste susceptible plants and plant material by burning or deep burial
(at an approved landfill site – see Section 10.4 for important information on dealing with waste).
• Repair and maintenance to the physical structure of the footpaths e.g. where possible gravelling
of mud paths.
• Restrictions on access to contaminated areas e.g. cordoning-off or re-routing of footpaths to avoid
contaminated areas.
• Hygiene measures for employees and contractors including cleaning and disinfection of footwear
and machinery before leaving the site.
• Some restraint on the movement of dogs or domestic stock e.g. for parks and gardens open to
the public, all dogs to be kept on short leads.
• Erection of information signs to alert the public of the presence of the disease and include advice
relevant to the site.
Control measures
Whilst complete eradication may not be attempted, some eradication work may be required under
Notice to ensure containment, to protect the public (from falling trees and/or from taking the
problem home with them) or to protect important or valuable specimens. These measures may
include:
• Removal and destruction of infected plants adjacent to the footpath(s).
• Removal and destruction of infected plants, especially large shrubs and trees that are deemed to
be unsafe.
• Removal and destruction of infected plants (e.g. large shrubs or trees that have leaf infection)
which pose a risk to neighbouring plants (e.g. those directly in the drip line).
• Fungicide treatment to reduce either inoculum or to protect valuable specimens.
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