urban forests pshb

Defending Somerset West’s Urban Forests Against PSHB

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The small but mighty Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) beetle is threatening the beautiful trees of Somerset West, infesting over 5,000 of them, including beloved species like Boxelder and Weeping Willow. To combat this danger, the City of Cape Town is holding a free training session on December 19, 2024, inviting residents to learn how to spot and manage the beetle’s damage. This effort is vital not just for the trees, but for preserving the community’s rich cultural history tied to these natural treasures. By joining together, Somerset West can protect its urban forests and ensure they thrive for future generations.

pshb urban forest

Rising to the Challenge: Cape Town’s Combat Against the Destructive Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer Beetle

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Cape Town is taking on the destructive Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer Beetle (PSHB) that threatens its urban forest. The city’s Invasive Species Unit is providing training sessions to help residents recognize infested trees, handle affected biomass, and impede the beetle’s spread. The program aims to empower individuals and businesses alike to protect their green spaces effectively and preserve the city’s ecological heritage. With the united efforts of its citizens, Cape Town is rising to the challenge of this formidable foe.

pshb cape town

Cape Town’s Battle Against the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer: A Community Effort

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Cape Town is fighting the invasive Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer beetle by offering free training to residents and businesses to manage infested trees and safely transport affected biomass. Chemical solutions have failed, so the training aims to provide attendees with crucial information about the beetle and how to recognize infested trees, handle and dispose of infested biomass, and safely transport green waste. This community effort is essential as PSHB poses a significant threat to Cape Town’s urban vegetation, and the traditional chemical solutions have failed to control it.