Written question WQ83957

The eradication of a tree health pest or pathogen is best achieved at the initial stages of an outbreak situation and when the disease or pest needs to be contained and controlled immediately.

In 2006 an eradication approach was taken for Phythophthora ramorum as at the time best knowledge available at that time believed the disease was confined to an area of South-West Wales. However, during further surveillance (2006-09) the scale and intensity of the infection became evident and eradication was considered impossible.

As a result our approach moved to slow the spread of the disease to reduce the social, environmental and economic impact of P.ramorum across Wales. Natural Resources Wales have a strategy to control the spread of the disease.

The Glastir Woodland Restoration scheme was launched to provide funding year on year to support landowners and help restore Ancient Woodland Sites affected by this disease.