First report of Chalara fraxinea in Norway
In May 2008, Chalara fraxinea (EPPO Alert List) was isolated for the first time in Norway from ash trees (Fraxinus excelsior) presenting symptoms of ash dieback. In 2007, symptoms had been noticed but C. fraxinea could not be detected and damage was attributed to winter frost. At present, the disease seems to be widely distributed in southern Norway (Sørlandet) and South-Eastern Norway (Østlandet). The fungus has been isolated as far North as Hedmark county, and also in Buskerud, Vestfold, Telemark, Aust-Agder and Vest-Agder counties, but not west of Lyngdal. Symptoms were not found in Jæren (southwestern Norway). Since September 2008, phytosanitary regulations are being been implemented in Norway to prevent any further spread of the disease. Infected zones have been delimited and they include the following counties: Østfold, Oslo, Akershus, Vestfold, Buskerud, Oppland, Hedmark, Telemark, Aust-Agder and Vest-Agder. Restrictions of the movements of Fraxinus excelsior plants for planting have been imposed, and all pruning or mowing machinery must be disinfected before being moved to an area which is free of the disease.
The situation of Chalara fraxinea in Norway can be described as follows: Present, first detected in 2008, widespread in Southern and South-Eastern Norway (Sørlandet, Østlandet).
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Note: Pictures of Chalara fraxinea were kindly provided by Prof. Solheim and can be viewed on the EPPO Gallery of pictures. http://photos.eppo.org/index.php/album/380-chalara-fraxinea-chaafr-
Sources
Personal communication with Dr Bjørn Økland, Norwegian Forest and Landscape Institute, Ås, Norway (2008-08).
Personal communication with Prof. Halvor Solheim, Norwegian Forest and Landscape Institute, Ås, Norway (2008-09).
INTERNET (last accessed 2008-09)
Norwegian Institute of Forestry and landscape. Ash dieback. http://www.skogoglandskap.no/nyheter/2008/askens_endelikt
Mattilsynet. Regulations of 8 September 2008 concerning measures against Chalara fraxinea. http://www.mattilsynet.no/english/plant_health/regulations_of_8_september_2008_concerning_measures_against_chalara_fraxinea_63077