A diseased Norfolk pine tree in South West Rocks will be removed on November 16 after samples confirmed the tree has the fast-acting fungal infection Norfolk Pine Canker (Neofusicoccum parvum).
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Kempsey Shire Council will remove the Norfolk pine in Mitchell Street which has continued to deteriorate despite careful monitoring and ongoing maintenance.
Norfolk Pine Canker is a contagious disease that affects the pines from the top down resulting in declining health, scarce canopies, gummosis and can eventually cause death of the entire tree, posing a risk to public safety.
The sick Norfolk Pine is part of a line of pines, which is an additional concern as the fungus can spread and infect neighbouring pines.
South West Rocks has about 75 Norfolk Island pines (Araucaria heterophylla). These large trees are a feature of the township, and many are at least 80 years old.
In 2018, council received confirmation that the canker was present in several pines in South West Rocks and enacted a management plan to care for the pines.
"The plan ensures council can make every effort to treat the infected and protect nearby trees," a council spokesperson said.
"The fungus has been observed throughout Australia and New Zealand. No chemical control is currently available but a program of watering and fertilisation, using seaweed-based fertiliser and high potassium, may assist."
A letter box drop with information regarding the sick Norfolk pine and its removal has been carried out by council staff.
Council will remove the sick pine using a crane and specialist equipment.
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