Proactive spruce tree management in the Ips typographus demarcated area
Published 5 June 2025
Applies to England
© Crown copyright 2025
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Spruce trees in the Ips typographus demarcated area (DMA) are at risk from the bark beetle Ips typographus.
Even if your woodland shows no signs of infestation, you can take proactive steps now to help prevent infestations and safeguard your trees.
Take early action to protect your woodland
Managing spruce before infestation is quicker, less costly and gives you more control.
Voluntary felling and restocking will reduce the risk of Statutory Plant Health Notices (SPHNs) being served on your woodland to deal with infestations later on.
What’s involved
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Contact your local Woodland Officer to discuss your options and available support.
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Check your permissions: you may need a felling licence and authorisation to fell in the Ips typographus DMA.
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Apply for grant funding: grants are available to support proactive management. Your Woodland Officer can guide you through the process.
Plan, fell and replant
Plan and carry out felling: this includes inspection of trees and handling material carried out by Forestry Commission staff to meet biosecurity standards.
Replant and maintain: restocking in line with your felling licence helps ensure long-term woodland resilience. Restocking with spruce is prohibited within the Ips typographus demarcated area.
Funding, support and advice
- apply for woodland improvement and tree health grants
- get advice from Forestry Commission Woodland Officers
- refer to guidance on felling licences and authorisations
Further information
Find out if your site is in the proactive spruce removal area, see the map.
Learn more about the Ips typographus beetle.