Houghton residents can learn more about the shot-hole borer
HOUGHTON – Residents are encouraged to RSVP for the shot-hole borer walkabout in Houghton to learn more about the invasive beetle damaging trees.
Most residents might be aware of the invasive beetle known as the shot-hole borer (polyphagous shot-hole borer) which currently attacks trees. The Lower Houghton Residents Association (LHRA) is arranging for an expert arborist to speak to the residents about the problem.
According to Diane Levine from the association, the expert will help identify infected trees and do a short walkabout in the suburb to demonstrate the effect of this infestation as well as discuss treatment options.
Levine said this beetle, which originated in Vietnam, is cutting a massive trail of destruction throughout Johannesburg and the trees of Houghton are dying as a result of this terrible infestation.
Between 100 000 and 500 000 trees are expected to be lost in the next five years.
“Can you imagine walking into your garden and finding that your cherished trees have turned to bare dead sticks and can you imagine strolling down the street in this burning heat and there is only an occasional tree left to give you some shade?” Levine posed the rhetoric.
She said that if people look around carefully, they will see trees that have already died and trees that have many exposed bare branches, especially oak, plane and maple trees. “The very nature of our special suburb will change. This is the reality that we are facing. Unfortunately dealing with this pest is a complex and difficult matter. There are no easy solutions,” said Levine.
The walkabout will be held on 23 February at 3 pm at 19 Sixth Avenue Houghton Estate. Attendants can bring a folding chair for extra comfort and if it rains the meeting will be held indoors.
Residents should RSVP to lhra@premiermerchant.co.za or SMS 082 325 5270 beforehand.
Details: www.houghtonresidents.com
Have you seen trees infected by the beetle in your community? Share pictures on our Facebook page at Rosebank Killarney Gazette.
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