A new TreeCheck app has been launched to enlist the public's help in safeguarding tree and forest health in Ireland.

TreeCheck will enable members of the public throughout the island to use their smartphones to report details and send a photograph of suspect diseased trees or evidence of insect damage to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) or the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD NI) for investigation.

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Using any GPS enabled Smartphone, the location of the suspect tree may also be captured by the App to allow inspection if required. Once received, the ill health reports will be assessed by plant health officials and will be followed up if a serious pest or disease is suspected. The App will help in the early detection of new and existing harmful pests and diseases.

(CD/JP)