News

With new and emerging tree diseases, the health of AONB woodlands continues to be of some concern.

Ash dieback, a disease caused by the fungal pathogen Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, is spreading across the UK and its impact is accelerating in the Shropshire Hills.

A recently launched Forestry Commission tree health pilot grant scheme is intended to provide additional support for landowners with disease affected trees and woodlands. 

The Shropshire Hills is one of four protected landscapes where this pilot is being run. It is principally targeted within the AONB and where there may be risk to the public from diseased trees. Grants are specific to each species and rates vary dependent on whether trees are within or outside of a woodland setting.

The following tree species are eligible:

• Ash with dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus)
• Larch with Phytophthora ramorum
• Sweet chestnut with blight (Cryphonectria parasitica) or Phytophthora ramorum

Dependent on species and woodland setting there is support for road closures, protected species surveys, restocking and maintenance, felling, chemical killing, Infrastructure/access and biosecurity.

Expressions of interests should be made using this Expression of Interest Form.  Please download to complete the form and email it back to: thpilotenquiries@forestrycommission.gov.uk.

Tree Health Pilot Scheme

 

These grants are in addition to the Countryside Stewardship Tree Health Scheme.

Follow the link to download information about Managing Ash Dieback.