The City of Cape Town is calling on Durbanville residents to attend a crucial community meeting about the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) beetle. This invasive pest is a serious threat to Cape Town’s trees. The meeting will take place on Thursday, 20 February 2025, at Durbanville Library from 16:00 to 18:30. The City’s Invasive Species Unit will provide essential training on identifying and managing infested trees.
PSHB has been detected in Durbanville, posing a danger to the area’s urban forest. Infested trees can die within a year if not managed correctly. Residents with trees on their properties should attend to learn how to prevent further spread.
Key training topics
- How to identify infested trees and symptoms to watch for.
- Steps to take if an infestation is found.
- Proper handling and disposal of infested biomass.
- Safe transportation of green waste.
- Best practices for equipment use to prevent spreading the pest.
Affected tree species
Trees at risk in Cape Town include Boxelders, London Planes, English Oaks, Beef Wood, Weeping Willow, Cape Chestnut, Sweet Viburnum, Black Locust, Paperbark, Liquid Amber, Chinese Cottonwood and Maples.
Current infestation status
- Durbanville: Multiple trees confirmed infested; survey ongoing.
- Other Areas: Over 5,700 infested trees in Helderberg since 2019 and over 400 sightings in Newlands, Rondebosch, Mowbray, Claremont, Kenilworth and Observatory along the Liesbeek River.
How to report sightings
- Online: www.capetown.gov.za/InvasiveSpecies
- Phone: 021 444 2357 (Monday to Friday, 07:30 – 16:00)
- Email: [email protected]
Residents are urged to spread the word and help protect Cape Town’s trees. Your participation can make a difference!
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