Pests & Disease | Reports & Research | Resilience

QJF Plant Health Articles: Editors’ Choice

We asked the Editors of the Quarterly Journal of Forestry what articles they wanted to share for this year's Plant Health Week science day. They did not disappoint!

By Elle McAllister · May 6, 2025

The Living Ash Project - Ten Years On by Dr Jo Clark (QJF 2024 Vol 118 No. 4) "Every tree almost certainly has some small signs of disease, but a few trees are coping with it very well... About 30% of selections are showing very good, sustained tolerance to ash dieback.”

Editors’ Comment:

This is an accessible overview of an important collaborative project, the Living Ash Project, which aims to secure ash trees for the future that show tolerance to ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus).

Jo Clark looks to the future of this iconic species with a note of optimism, giving a clear and up-to-date summary of important scientific research that is relevant to anyone with an interest in the future of ash trees in the UK.

Goshawk as Predators of Grey Squirrel in Gloucestershire by Anna Field (QJF 117(2): 92-97) “It is expected that many nesting pairs of goshawk will significantly reduce grey squirrel numbers... Goshawk could be encouraged by ensuring that some mature conifers are retained following thinning or felling.”

Editors’ Comment:

This James Cup-winning article from 2023 is a fascinating summary of important field-based scientific research that shows how goshawks can provide a form of natural pest control of grey squirrel in the woodland in which they nest.

The article helpfully discusses ways in which woodland managers can support breeding goshawk populations. Anna Field provides a clear and accessible piece, supported with some astounding images, which demonstrates the important beneficial role of this once persecuted raptor in our woodlands and forests.

What Does it Take to Stop Bad Bacteria on Oak? by Sandra Denman & Nathan Brown (QJF 117(2): 98-106) "There is no doubt that AOD is a highly complex disease, and this has necessitated the involvement of colleagues from a range of scientific disciplines resulting in a truly multidisciplinary, integrated research effort. This approach has yielded great returns in diagnosis of the disease and its drivers..."

Editors’ Comment:

A comprehensive update on research into a potentially very serious disease syndrome: acute oak decline (AOD) that gives great insight into this highly complex, emerging disease; it is helpful in understanding the causative factors of AOD and potential approaches to management.

This is an accessible summary of important ongoing work being carried out by Forest Research, with good use of images and figures, along with details of how readers can find out more.

Keep an eye out for more Plant Health Week content from RFS and our partners and friends across our social media platforms.

Read more: