'unprecedented Threat' For Uk Trees From Pests

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UK trees are facing an "unprecedented level of threat" from pests and diseases, the Forestry Commission has warned.

All species are vulnerable to potential attacks - from ecologically vital oaks to non-native ornamental species, such as lawson cypresses.

The biggest risk, it warns, comes from non-native organisms, which - in their natural range - are kept in check by natural predators and environmental conditions.

However, if they are able to become established in the UK's natural environment then there are often no natural controls to curb their spread, resulting in a potentially devastating impact on the landscape.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-19167307