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CoJ takes steps to minimise impact of polyphagous shot hole borer

MMC for community development Clr Nonhlanhla Sifumba said the national department is taking the lead in dealing with this issue with assistance from other organisations and private institutions.

Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) investigated infections noted in street trees as well as in trees planted in parks and open spaces, Joburg East Expressreports.

A task team engaged with a number of tree and insect specialists, including academics, entomologists and arbor culturists to consult on the alien invasive beetle known as the polyphagous shot hole borer (PSHB) named as such due to the effect it creates, which is similar to that of a shotgun having been fired into a tree.

City of Johannesburg (CoJ) stated the PSHB infestation is a national problem and the current action plan is focused on gathering and analysing as much information as possible, as well as working in collaboration with the National Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF).

MMC for community development Clr Nonhlanhla Sifumba said the national department is taking the lead in dealing with this issue with assistance from other organisations and private institutions.

“This includes continuously identifying trees infected and researching a sustainable solution to dealing with this problem. In this regard, JCPZ joined the Cities4Forests Group, the World Resource Institute Forum dealing with urban forestry and related matters. A workshop is being planned with several international and UN-based organisations in a quest to develop a specific strategy for the city,” said Sifumba.

Key implementable action plans for which resources were acquired include:

• Removal of dead trees.

• Ensuring data on what killed the trees is accurate to ensure cases of PSHB are accurately recorded.

• Proper disposal of these trees so no further contamination happens.

• Engagement with Pikitup on the volume of green waste that will be generated.

• Education and engagement with communities in September and October in areas where trees are being planted for Arbor Month.

• Risk profile compilation by the stakeholder unit of JCPZ.

Read more | Source: germistoncitynews.co.za