Situation of Dutch elm disease in New Zealand
Dutch elm disease (Ophiostoma ulmi, O. novo-ulmi) was first reported in New Zealand in central Auckland in December 1989. Measures were put in place to prevent any further spread: destruction of diseased trees, prohibition of movement of any elm material from infected areas, pheromone trapping of the insect vector (Scolytus multistriatus). In summer 1993/94, the disease was also found near Napier and in 1997, 200 elm trees were removed and destroyed. Since then, no other infection has been found in Napier. In the Auckland area, ongoing surveys were conducted in all recorded elm locations. During the last 10 years, disease levels declined and no new infected tree locations were detected. During the next five years, all elm trees within the Auckland area will be tested for the presence of the fungus. The authorities felt that Dutch elm disease is now under control in New Zealand and that eradication may be achieved within the coming years.
Sources
Ross, M. (2000) Dutch elm disease under control.
Biosecurity, no. 21, August 2000, MAF, New Zealand, p 14.