The town has confirmed a tree with beech leaf disease (BLD) has been identified on private property in the west end of Cobourg.
However, officials said there are currently no signs that any town trees (or public property) have been affected at this time.
“Our urban forestry team is monitoring the situation closely,” said the town.
Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) was reportedly first detected by the Canadian Food and Inspection Agency (CFIA) in Ontario in 2017 where the disease was present in Elgin County.
The town added that BLD is caused by a tiny invasive worm-like parasitic nematode and doesn’t harm people or pets — but it can impact the beech tree population and local forest ecosystems.
The microscopic worms are said to feed on developing buds in fall and spring, disrupting normal leaf development and during summer, the nematodes feed on leaf tissue between the veins.
Town officials said people can look for signs on their properties such as dark stripes between leaf veins, yellowing, curling or leathery leaves and early leaf drop or buds not opening.
What’s more, if you suspect a beech tree is infected, residents are asked to contact the town arborist at 905-372-8641 ext. 4369 or trees@cobourg.ca.
The town also has more information online.
