The fight to protect trees in North Lanarkshire from Ash Dieback disease continues, as highlighted in a recent report. The annual update, which was approved by the council’s environment and climate change committee at a recent meeting, noted that work in the southern part of Cumbernauld has been especially challenging due to issues with a contractor and parked cars blocking access for the necessary machinery. However, inspections of medium and high-risk zones are on schedule, providing a clear understanding of the health of trees and necessary actions.
Works in five council areas have been completed, with more planned over winter which will see a total of 876 affected trees removed. Another 1300 diseased trees have been felled since the council introduced its strategy in 2022. To preserve overall tree coverage, one or three trees are planted to replace each one that is felled, although not always at the same location.
The council has also been carrying out roadside surveys over the last year, revealing that ash trees are common alongside A and B roads, with more than 9,000 identified, of which almost 2,500 have been recommended for removal. The council is working with Scottish Forestry to develop the best strategy to protect its nature reserves and woodlands from becoming unusable due to fallen timber.
Scottish Forestry has been contributing significantly to the overall management of North Lanarkshire woodlands, including its Woodlands In and Around Towns initiative, benefiting 83 hectares of woods over the last decade. However, ongoing issues with funding have led to problems with invasive species, pests, and diseases at some locations. Young woodlands will require maintenance actions within the next decade, covered in a new framework document approved by councillors during the same meeting.
The council plans to conduct comprehensive audits of woodlands, seeking support from the Future Woodlands Scotland Urban Forestry Fund. Once audits are completed, a ten-year programme of works will be launched to support the Clyde Climate Forest initiative to plant 18 million trees by 2030.
In summary, the battle against Ash Dieback disease in North Lanarkshire continues, with efforts to protect trees and woodlands ongoing despite challenges such as funding issues and invasive species. The council’s proactive approach to tree preservation and reforestation demonstrates a commitment to sustainable environmental management in the region.