Biosecurity: Protecting Our Farms from Pests and Diseases

Biosecurity is a critical set of precautions designed to prevent the introduction and spread of harmful organisms. This includes invasive insects and pathogens—such as bacteria and fungi—that can devastate our natural landscapes.

Since the early 2000s, the UK has seen a significant rise in non-native tree threats. By adopting simple biosecurity measures, we can all play a vital role in protecting our woodlands and forests.

How Pests and Diseases Spread

Harmful organisms are often hitchhikers, traveling through:

• Live Plants: Potted plants and tree products.

• Wood Products: Timber and wood packaging (crates/pallets).

• Contaminated Equipment: Dirty tools, boots, and machinery.

• Organic Matter: Soil and leaf litter.

• Nature: Wind and water dispersal.

Action Guide: What You Can Do

You don’t need to be an expert to help. Simple habits make a huge difference:

• Keep it Clean: Before leaving a woodland or park, scrape mud and debris off your boots, bike tires, and buggy wheels. Check your dog for organic matter too.

• Park Smart: Stick to hard-standing surfaces like tarmac whenever possible.

• Don’t Risk It: Never bring plants, seeds, or flowers back from trips abroad; they could unknowingly carry invasive pathogens.

• Report: Use TreeAlert to report any trees that look unwell or suspicious.

For Industry Professionals

Arborists, foresters, and landscapers are high-risk groups for accidental spread. Follow the “Think Kit, Think Transport, Think Trees” framework:

• Think Kit: Ensure all clothing, ropes, and saws are free from soil before moving between sites. Disinfect cutting tools as part of your routine.

• Think Transport: Clean vehicles and machinery—including wheels and cabs—before leaving a site. Use professional wash-down facilities regularly.

• Think Trees: Only source stock from trusted suppliers who follow the Plant Health Management Standard. Keep meticulous records of all purchases to help with tracing during an outbreak.

For Farmers, Landowners and Managers

Pests can diminish the economic and ecological value of your land.

• Stay Informed: If a “notifiable” pest is found, you may receive a Statutory Plant Health Notice (SPHN). This isn’t a penalty, but a legal requirement to take specific actions (like felling or containment) to stop the spread.

• Public Awareness: Use posters and information boards to encourage visitors to follow biosecurity protocols on your land.