Elm Leaf Beetle Control Plan treats 437 trees in 2017

Bathurst Regional Council used the stem injection method on 437 trees in Bathurst, Hill End, Sofala, Wattle Flat, Rockley, Perthville and Raglan.

The trees treated this year were not the same ones targeted last year, as the treatment lasts up to four years.

Council will continue to monitor and re-treat the trees every 2-3 years as part of its ongoing control program.

Mayor Graeme Hanger said the stem injection method was preferred over using soil injection or trunk banding.

These methods, he said, were not selected for a number of reasons.

The soil injection method wasn’t chosen due to Bathurst’s dry climate, limited ability to irrigate the elms and the potential environmental risks, while the banding method isn’t as effective and is more labour intensive. 

“The [stem injection] method is considered to be the most effective and environmentally sound option as it delivers the insecticide directly into the tree,” Cr Hanger said. 

“The treatment will reduce leaf damage caused by the elm leaf beetle and its larvae and improve the health of the tree.

“It is important to note that the control treatment being undertaken is to protect elm trees from extensive attack from the elm leaf beetles. Unfortunately there is no control treatment available to eradicate elm leaf beetles.”

While council is attempting to take control of the elm leaf beetle problem in public spaces, residents should take responsibility for any elm trees on their own properties.

“Council is encouraging residents to treat elms on their own properties as this will help to reduce the population of the elm leaf beetle throughout Bathurst,” Cr Hanger said.

“A brochure with advice on treatment options is available on Council's website.

“Elm trees located within a public park, reserve, or road verge that are suffering from an elm leaf beetle attack can be reported to council.”