Published on Friday, 9 September 2022 at 3:00:00 PM
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is continuing to manage the exotic pest, Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer (PSHB) at Masons Gardens, Dalkeith.
PSHB is a wood-boring exotic beetle that severely damages host trees, with some species dying within two years of infestation. Box elder maples (Acer negundo) are highly susceptible to PSHB infestation.
Trees damaged by PSHB can quickly become safety hazards due to falling limbs and are a constant source of beetles that can disperse to neighbouring trees. Early detection and the prompt removal or pruning of infested trees is key to containing the spread of PSHB and minimising further impact on neighbouring trees.
Following the management of trees completed in May 2022, DPIRD has been conducting ongoing surveillance at Masons Gardens. This surveillance has detected a further seven trees identified as showing visible signs of damage, are dead or dying and require specific management. The presence of PSHB has been confirmed via molecular analysis at DPIRD’s Diagnostic Laboratory Services.
The City of Nedlands is working with DPIRD to remove 4 willow and 3 black poplar trees, with work expected to take place on 13-14 September 2022. It will be carried out by certified arborists supervised by DPIRD and City of Nedlands staff.
We apologise for any noise or inconvenience that this work causes. For everyone’s safety, please stay away from any active work zones.
Residents in the Quarantine Area are encouraged to inspect all backyard trees for signs of borer damage and/or tree die back. Please report anything unusual to the department via the MyPestGuide® Reporter app or to the Pest and Disease Information Service on 9368 3080, email padis@dpird.wa.gov.au.
Further information is available on the webpage agric.wa.gov.au/borer
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