Ash dieback (also known as Chalara) is a fungal disease from Asia which is now affecting our native ash trees. Unfortunately our native trees have no natural defences to this fungus which is spread by spores. It affects trees of all ages. The fungus grows inside the trees and stops them being able to take up water and nutrients. This causes shoots, leaves and eventually the tree to die back.
It is estimated that ash dieback will eventually destroy over 90% of ash trees in this country. This will dramatically change the landscape of our countryside and will affect species that use ash for feeding, breeding and as a habitat.
Ash dieback has been found for some time in other places nearby and, sadly has now reached the Reserve. The Friends of Lancing Ring are working with Adur & Worthing Council to identify and manage affected trees. We will be following the National Tree Council guidance in managing the situation. Dead trees will be felled by the Council and infected ones will be monitored and managed to ensure they are safe. You may see the top crowns of some of the old established trees gradually dying back and some of these may be reduced to put less strain on the trees. The national guidance is to resist rushing into drastic action as it will make no difference to the spread of the fungus and it is hoped that by taking time to deal with this disease it may be possible to identify any trees in the country that show natural resistance.
We will be starting a programme to plant different tree species to replace any felled ash trees. By planting a mixture of tree species it is estimated that about 84% of species that use ash trees will be supported. Priority will always be safety. The first of the dead trees in the Clump will be felled during this autumn / winter.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?
You can help by joining the Friends of Lancing Ring and financially supporting our work.
You can help by coming along to our replacement tree plantings when they are advertised.
You can help by coming along to help us keep the new trees clear of bramble and scrub to give them the best chance to survive
In these days of concern about the environment, trees are more important than ever. Do support us if you can.
More information about ash dieback is available from:
Adur and Worthing Council at https://www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/news/pr19-145.html
https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/tree-pests-and-diseases/key-tree-pests-and-diseases/ash-dieback/
