Protecting native ash trees from pest that can strip them bare (opens original article in a new tab)

Northern Ireland is using traps and research to protect ash trees from invasive sawfly larvae that defoliate them, while also exploring resistant tree varieties.

• Traps are being used to protect ash trees from ash sawfly larvae that strip leaves
• Ash sawfly infestations can weaken trees, especially those with ash dieback disease
• Researchers are testing environmentally-friendly methods to control the pest
• Breeding resistant ash tree varieties is part of ongoing efforts to combat the issue