Elm Leaf Beetle Control to commence mid-October

Published on 08 October 2024

Council will start its annual program to protect elm trees from the elm leaf beetle in mid-October.

Local contractor Douglas Arbor has been awarded this year’s contract to conduct the elm tree control program, which will include the treatment of 298 elm trees in roadside reserves and parks within Bathurst, West Bathurst, Windradyne, Llanarth, Abercrombie, Kelso, Raglan and Perthville.

The works will involve a stem injection treatment utilising specialist equipment that applies insecticide into the vascular system of the trees.  The method is considered to be the most effective and environmentally sound option as it delivers the insecticide directly into the tree.

General Manager David Sherley said the program aims to reduce outbreaks of the pest ahead of the summer months.

“The treatment provides protection from beetle damage for up to four years,” he said.

Property owners with elm trees are also encouraged to seek the services of professional companies to treat their own trees. This will help to reduce the population of the elm leaf beetle throughout the region.