Experts on trail of tree killer

TREE experts will make their way to the hills in the next two months to hunt down a pine-tree killing bug that has been detected in the area for the first time.
Giant Pine Scale is an exotic insect that lives on the sap of pine, fir and spruce trees, and is covered by white, cotton-like secretions.
The Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) will send tree experts to Lysterfield, Belgrave and Emerald, as well as other areas in Melbourne’s south east to find the pest and assess its spread.
The visit is part of an urgent eradication program, which aims to protect softwood plantation trees and prevent the spread of the insect.
DEDJTR Chief Plant Health Officer Gabrielle Vivian-Smith said support from the community was integral to eradicating the pest.
“To minimise further spread, we’re asking people not to touch, move or collect suspected samples or parts of infected trees,” Dr Vivian-Smith said.
Landowners are being asked to lookout for signs of infestation, which include severe dehydration and dieback, which eventually kills the tree.
The majority of infested trees will be treated using an insecticide stem injection, and people can report any white, waxy secretions on pine fir and spruce trees to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
For more information and to see sample photos of the Giant Pine Scale, visit www.vic.gov.au/giantpinescale.