Gangwon-do Launches Emergency Control Measures for 'Pine Wilt Disease'

Epidemiological Investigation Conducted to Identify Source of Occurrence

On-site Inspection by Relevant Agencies Regarding the Occurrence of 'Pine Wilt Disease' [Gangwon Province]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ra Young-cheol] As the infection of 'Pine Wilt Disease' has been confirmed in Donghae City, Gangwon Province is launching an epidemiological investigation and emergency control measures for adjacent cities and counties.

On the 6th, Gangwon Province announced, "The Gangwon Forest Science Institute and the National Institute of Forest Science have finally confirmed the infection of Pine Wilt Disease in four dead pine trees found at San 120-3, Yongjeong-dong, Donghae City, and one other plot."

The province plans to activate an epidemiological investigation team composed of experts to identify the timing and cause of the Pine Wilt Disease infection, while conducting detailed investigations targeting the affected area, pine-related businesses, and households using firewood.

By the end of February, all infected trees and surrounding pines will be removed and shredded, and preventive tree injections will be applied around the pine forest edges. Precise surveillance around the affected areas will be conducted using helicopters and drones.

Additionally, access to the infected tree areas will be blocked until control measures are completed, and the entire zone within a 2 km radius of the infected trees will be designated as a pine product export prohibition zone, fully restricting the movement of pine species such as pine, haesong, and jatnamu.

Kim Kyung-gu, Director of the Green Bureau, said, "Considering that it is the overwintering period of the vector insect, the northern pine sawyer beetle, we will do our best to prevent the spread," and urged, "If you find dead pine, haesong, or jatnamu trees nearby, please report immediately to the forestry department of the relevant city or county."

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