New cases of the tree disease Phytophthora pluvialis have been confirmed in Talybont-on-Ust, Mynydd Du and Radnor.
P. pluvialis was discovered in Wales for the very first time back in December 2021; there are now a total of seven affected sites across the country.
The disease was originally reported in the US (Oregon) in 2013 and in New Zealand in 2014, and had not been detected in Europe before 2021.
It affects a variety of tree species, including western hemlock, Douglas fir and several pine species.
It is reported to cause needle cast (where needles turn brown and fall off), shoot dieback, and lesions on the stem, branches, and roots.
After the first discovery of the disease in December, Climate Change Minister Julie James said:
“We will continue to work with partner agencies across the UK to share information, experience and understanding to ensure a joint approach to monitoring and managing the situation.”
A full online symptom guide has been prepared by the UK government and the Forestry Commission (FC), which has also introduced a number of measures to control the disease across England.
These measures, which help to prevent accidental movement of the pathogen, came into force on Thursday, January 27.
Woodland managers, landowners, tree nurseries and the forestry industry should remain vigilant for signs of the disease and report any sighting via the TreeAlert online portal.
