Fungus fatal to trees found in Niagara Falls, first appearance in Canada

A fungus fatal to trees has made its first Canadian appearance in Niagara Falls.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) recently said that oak wilt, a disease caused by the fungus Bretziella fagacearum, was found in a residential area in the city. 

“To help prevent the spread of this detection, movement restrictions are in place on affected properties,” the CFIA said on its website. 

“We are working with other federal, provincial and municipal governments to survey the area and determine next steps.”

The discovery marks the first time the tree disease has been observed in Canada. 

According to the CFIA, red oaks are particularly susceptible to the fungus, which typically results in tree death within a single season. 

The agency says the fungus is spread naturally through root grafts or beetles carrying fungal spores. Affected trees will show some telltale signs of infection, including dull green, brown or yellow leaves, cracks in the trunk, a white, grey or black fungus and an early and sudden leaf drop. 

As far as prevention goes, the CFIA recommends that residents refrain from pruning oak trees between April and August and avoid moving firewood. 

Anyone who suspects a tree might be infected is asked to contact the CFIA.