Confirmed finding of oriental chestnut gall wasp in Kent woodland

The tree pest oriental chestnut gall wasp (Dryocosmus kuriphilus) has been confirmed in sweet chestnut trees (Castanea sativa) in a woodland in Kent.

The Forestry Commission spokesperson said: “The oriental chestnut gall wasp has been discovered in one area of Kent.
“This is a pest that only affects sweet chestnut (Castanea) species of tree, and does not pose any risk to people, pets or farm livestock.
“We have launched an immediate investigation of the surrounding woodland and, once we have fully assessed the situation, we will swiftly take any appropriate action.”

About oriental chestnut gall wasp:

Oriental chestnut gall wasp is a pest that affects species of sweet chestnut tree. Only European sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) is grown in significant numbers in Britain, and no other tree species in Britain is affected.
The Forestry Commission is undertaking a full survey and analysis to determine the scale of the current outbreak and the potential cause of the outbreak.
Once we have fully assessed the situation, we will swiftly take any appropriate action.
Oriental chestnut gall wasp is a threat to sweet chestnuts in several regions of the world. It reduces nut production and can weaken the tree, leaving it vulnerable to other diseases.
The UK has Protected Zone Status against this pest, and the plant health services must be notified of all pending imports of sweet chestnut planting material before its arrival in the UK so that a proportion can be inspected.
As part of investigations into the outbreak, the new Observatree group of trained volunteers have agreed to help survey more widely for evidence of the pest.
A full statement has been published on our website at www.forestry.gov.uk/gallwasp, and will be updated as the situation evolves. The affected woodland is Farningham Woods, near Sevenoaks, Kent.

Replies

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Acacia Groundcare Hire June 17, 2015 at 9:00am

'Wasp' and 'Not a danger' in the same sentence just seems wrong! Though from looking at pictures they don't look like a common wasp. Still don't think I'll be rushing to Farningham Wood!

Real shame if they damage the trees, here's hoping the problem isn't too serious. Must be very difficult to stop everything getting through the safety checks.
- PRO
  
  Phil Voice > Acacia Groundcare Hire June 18, 2015 at 10:42am
  
  Just had an email from the Forestry Commission, who saw your comment.
  
  Hi Phil
  
  I see there's a comment on your web posting about this about someone who
  clearly thinks these wasps might sting. You might like to add a note to
  say that "the Forestry Commission advises that these wasps do not
  sting". ??
  
  Don't want to put people off visiting woodland!
  
  Tks
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Acacia Groundcare Hire June 18, 2015 at 11:19am

Oh that's really good of them! Wasn't trying to put people off at all, love exploring the woods - I'm not a big fan of wasps and little flying things but knowing they don't sting is great. Would be quite interesting to see one, going to have a little read about them now :)

Thanks for letting me know - and to the guys at the Forestry Commission for their hard work (and vigilance!)
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Phil Voice June 18, 2015 at 11:38am

Couple of photos: