A new outbreak of pine wilt disease has been reported in Jangpyeong-myeon, Jangheung County, prompting urgent containment measures by local authorities.
Jangheung County officials confirmed the infection in the areas of Gidong-ri and Cheongyong-ri and announced the designation of a 1,256-hectare restricted area to prevent the movement of pine trees and initiate emergency response efforts.
This action aims to halt the spread of the disease and protect adjacent forests from further damage.
The county has established a 2-kilometer radius around the outbreak site as a restricted area and plans to conduct a thorough investigation of surrounding pine trees for signs of infection.
Based on the investigation results, infected trees will be removed and shredded, while healthy pine trees will receive preventive vaccinations to focus efforts on containment.
Pine wilt disease is a forest pest transmitted by vector insects such as the pine weevil, causing infected pine trees, including red pines and Korean pines, to die off.
Early removal of infected trees and control of vector insects are crucial, as recovery from infection is difficult. Preventing the movement of pine trees outside the infected area is also essential.
The county is particularly concerned about the potential for the disease to spread to other regions through the illegal movement of infected pine trees and will enhance enforcement against such activities.
As a result, the county will conduct public awareness campaigns and on-site inspections to prevent unauthorized movement of pine trees or the use of dead trees for firewood within the restricted area.
Forest owners and residents are urged to comply with regulations on the movement of pine trees and to report any trees showing yellowing leaves or signs of dying promptly to the relevant authorities.
Jo Han-wook, head of the Jangheung County Forest Recreation Division, stated, "Pine wilt disease often spreads on a large scale due to the artificial movement of infected trees. We ask for active cooperation in enforcing movement restrictions, and please report any dead trees immediately."
He added, "We will respond to prevent damage from spreading to surrounding forests through detailed investigations and control measures in the newly affected areas."
Meanwhile, individuals who violate regulations by moving pine trees from the restricted area without permission may face penalties under the Special Act on Pine Wilt Disease Control, including up to one year in prison or fines of up to 10 million won. For more information on reporting suspected infected trees, residents can contact the Forest Protection Team at Jangheung County Office.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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