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DUTCHELM.WPD Page 1 August 17, 1998 CONTACT: Johnny Medlin, Support Services Manager, 682 -4800 From Public Information Section, 682 -5523 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE TREE ON AGATE STREET FOUND TO HAVE DUTCH ELM DISEASE Dutch elm disease has been found in at least one American elm tree in east Eugene, and the City's Public Work Department is moving quickly to try and stop the spread of the disease. Drooping limbs and wilted or yellowing leaves are signs of Dutch elm disease, which only affects elm trees, particularly American elms. The disease is highly contagious and is transmitted by root contact between trees and by beetles that live on the trees. The presence of the disease becomes more noticeable in hot weather. Dennis Lueck, a member of the Eugene Tree Foundation, last week spotted symptoms of the disease in an American elm on Agate Street near 15th Avenue. Testing by the OSU Extension Service confirmed that the tree was infected, and the street tree is scheduled to be removed on Tuesday. Sixteen other large American elms, most of them along Agate Street between 13th and 18th avenues, are being tested. Test results are expected in about a week. The last outbreak of Dutch elm disease in Eugene was in 1986, when approximately 16 trees were removed, mostly in east Eugene. The Oregon Department of Agriculture strongly recommends immediate removal of infected trees to reduce the potential for spreading the disease to other trees. (more) News Release -- Dutch Elm Disease August 17, 1998 Page 2 The Eugene Public Works Department will remove and replace any street elms found to be infected with Dutch elm disease. Public Works also will inspect and remove diseased elms on private property at no cost to property owners. Property owners with American elms suspected of being diseased should call Public Works Maintenance at 682 -4800 to arrange for a free inspection. # ##