Author: admincomms@aldenham-pc.gov.uk

Oak Processionary Moth – warning issued

Oak Processionary Moth Hertsmere’s parks and open spaces are a haven for residents during the summer but we’re asking visitors to be vigilant against a pest found in oak trees.

The Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) has been found in a number of parks and open spaces across the borough and residents are advised to avoid all contact with the caterpillar and their nest as it can cause itchy rashes, eye irritations and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties in people and pets.

Hertsmere’s parks team is working to manage Oak Processionary Moths in our area and will be putting up safety notices in those parks affected to warn the public. If you discover an OPM nest or caterpillar, we ask that you ‘spot it, avoid it, report it’.

This time of year is when the caterpillars emerge and feed before pupating into adult moths, but nests, even old ones, should not be touched at any time.

The nests are typically dome or teardrop-shaped, ranging in size – from a ping pong ball to as large as a rucksack. They are white when fresh, but soon become discoloured and brown. The caterpillars have black heads and bodies covered in long white hairs and are easily recognised by a distinctive habit of crawling in large groups, nose-to-tail forming long lines on or around oak trees.

If you see any oak processionary nests or caterpillars (OPM) in a council park you should report them immediately on 020 8207 2277 or email: customer.services@hertsmere.gov.uk

If they are on a privately owned oak tree, report them to the Forestry Commission using the Tree Alert online pest reporting form. If you cannot use Tree Alert, you may report them by telephone on 0300 067 4442 or by email at opm@forestrycommission.gov.uk.

For more information on the Oak Processionary Moth, including distribution maps and more detailed guidance on treatment visit: www.forestresearch.gov.uk/treealert or www.forestresearch.gov.uk/opm

Wild flower area

APC’s Open Spaces Team have created such a wonderful wild flower area at Phillimore Recreation Ground, it really is such a spectacular sight and so important for increasing biodiversity. 🌺🌼🐝

Café Build Update

To date we have completed our site cabin set up, installed most of the below ground drainage, prepared / cast the reinforced concrete slab and started the timber frame.

A pathway has been dug out, allowing access from the toilets / tennis courts. Unfortunately a tree has had to be removed as it was blocking the way, but following a recent tree report, it was recorded that the tree was in ill health. We will of course be replacing the tree, in line with our tree replacement plan, locating it in a different area.

Warning after residents targeted by scam police calls

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We’ve received reports of scam calls to residents claiming to be from Hertfordshire Constabulary asking for donations. Police would never cold call asking for donations. If you receive such a call, please do not make any payment or pass on personal details and report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online via www.actionfraud.police.uk, where you can also find advice on fraud.  For all other non-emergency enquiries, report information online, speak to us via web chat or call via 101 (in an emergency, always dial 999).