The cause of sudden oak death has been found mainly on viburnums and rhododendron, and Forestry Commission Wales is working with Defra.

"The disease poses a threat particularly to woodlands containing Rhododendron ponticum around urban areas in South Wales and the Conwy Valley in north-west Wales," said a Forestry Commission Wales' representative.

Forestry Commission Wales is offering targeted support in these two zones towards the cutting of uninfected material to help prevent the spread of Phytophthora.

An increased grant rate of 90% of the standard cost will be available, and all applications will be dealt on a first come first served basis.

Applications must be received by 31 August 2009 and the work must be done and claimed by 28 February 2010.
Visit http://www.forestry.gov.uk/website/forestry.nsf/byunique/infd-6j2h7x