Costing the Earth: The Impact of UK Ash Dieback?

The Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) is a common and important tree in the UK's deciduous woodlands. Infections with the fungus, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, results in Ash dieback, killing this species of tree. Ash dieback, first appeared in the UK, circa 10 years ago. Effects of this disease now appear much worse than was initially predicted (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/oct/16/ash-tree-dieback-uk-woodlands). It's now expected that, at best, only around 5% of Ash trees in British woodlands will survive the current fungal infection outbreak. Managed, deciduous woodlands are popular, being frequently visited by the general public. Dead Ash trees pose a considerable danger for visitors. Clearing dead trees, has consequently had to become a priority for woodland management bodies. Clearance is an expensive business, jeopardising the limited finances (they are often charities), of many management bodies. Fungal infections consequently increase the existional threat to the UK's fragile woodlands.