Avondale – Protecting Native Oak Trees From Moths
Oak trees across the South East are being protected by Avondale Environmental Services.
The Chatham-based groundworks and vegetation specialists have been out continuing its annual work to control the Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) population, a threat to some species of oak trees.
The moths were accidentally introduced to England in 2005; large populations have the ability to strip oak trees bare, leaving them vulnerable to pests, disease and drought. Close contact can also cause sores and blisters in humans.
Appointed by Network Rail, every March, Avondale takes on this high-risk work, to survey sites within the rail infrastructure in the South East and London considered by the Forestry Commission to be vulnerable to OPM infestation. During April to June, when the trees have a full canopy of leaves, the team safely sprays a chemical which dries on the leaves, killing the caterpillars when they eat them, before they can become moths and reproduce.
Avondale uses a unique specialised Rail Road Vehicle, their custom-designed Unimog Spray Unit which has a spray boom allowing for the safe treatment of infestations from the railway track and off track. Each site is visited up to four times, usually at night or early morning depending on the size and location of the area, and access.
Failure by Network Rail to act to control the problem could result in a fine from the Forestry Commission. This important work with Network Rail helps them fulfil their duties to the Government, and is just one of the ways Avondale works with clients across the UK to help promote biodiversity and protect our native environment.
