Invasive Spruce Bark Beetle Awareness
The Forestry Commission is currently focused on the eradication response to the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle, Ips typographus, which is an invasive and regulated pest in England.
Ips typographus targets weakened or damaged spruce trees, and storm events like those occurring this winter can create ideal habitats for the pest. It is being blown over from outbreaks in Europe, and if left unchecked, its population could increase, leading to significant damage to the country’s timber industry. The Forestry Commission advises proactive management of spruce to remove potential habitats and reduce the risk of infestation.
The Forestry Commission is also urging those in the Proactive Spruce Removal Area to be vigilant for windblown, snapped, damaged, and stressed spruce trees.
Any concerns should be reported via TreeAlert or emailed to ips.t@forestrycommission.gov.uk. This includes landowners, individuals involved in managing spruce (e.g., foresters, tree surgeons, Christmas tree growers), and members of the public who use spruce woodlands recreationally (e.g., dog walkers, ramblers).