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ADVISE AGAINST THE RED PALM WEEVIL

With the current plague of red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, Oliver) attacking the palms trees (public and private) in the municipality of Poble Nou de Benitachell; and the danger this entails for the survival of palm trees.

The recommendation for the residents of Poble Nou de Benitachell who own the species of palm, date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) and canary (Phoenix canariensis) are as follows:-
If your palm tree is showing symptoms that could suggest the possible involvement of this pest, residents are urged to get in contact with the Environmental Department, immediately, by phone 966493369 (best to submit an Instancia). You can also contact the Department of Agriculture of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food at the Generalitat.
The Town Hall of Poble Nou de Benitachell will provide the necessary advice through inspection and subsequent verification of the existence of the pest by using the sampling and the protocols established by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, who are at the forefront of the fight against the red palm weevil.
The sale and movement of plants affected by this pest is prohibited.
We recommend the implementation of preventive treatments during the months of March to December and also after any pruning or cleaning.
It is recommended that pruning is done in winter, between January and February. In the case of the genus Phoenix, this is limited to cleaning the leaves.
Any landscaping company or persons employed in the work pertaining to the destruction of affected palm trees, or to engage in the cleaning, pruning, or treatment of the infected trees, must be previously authorized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. Otherwise, they may not act on an infected palm.
It is not recommended to plant the species of palm trees susceptible to the pest, such as Canary Island date palm anywhere within the municipality, except by those individuals who possess the appropriate plant passport in accordance with the regulations.
In respect of disciplinary proceedings, these shall be governed in accordance with the provisions of Law 43/2002 of Plant Health.
A leaflet has been issued by the Generalitat de Valencia (Download PDF) Picudo Rojo
Stephen Kidgell
Councillor for the Enviroment.
(Note from Webmaster: Published as received)