Termite activity discovered by chance has forced the removal of more than a dozen mature gum trees across Gunnedah in recent weeks.
Eucalyptus trees in Abbott Street as well as the eastern side of View Street between Hunter and Beulah streets were removed.
While the trees appeared healthy on the outside, the internal tree structures were heavily compromised.
A Gunnedah Shire Council spokesperson said the termite damage was discovered during tree inspections as part of its kerb and gutter renewal program.
Tree removal on View Street earlier this week.
An arborist was contracted to inspect the trees and recommended the tree removal in the interest of public safety.
“Some of those trees have fallen prey to termites and something called ‘high risk abnormal growth’ that risks the stability and structural integrity of trees,” the council spokesperson said.
“Essential kerb and guttering also entails excavation that will affect the root system of the trees, which will increase the risk to public safety.”
Courtney Hubble from C.H Pest Solutions in Gunnedah said termites were prevalent in the local district but particularly in areas adjacent to large tree easements.
“Termites are always going to be an issue, especially around mature trees,” he said.
Mr Hubble said the bigger the tree, the more likely it would contain some sort of termite activity.
The Gunnedah-based pest controller described termites as “solid engineers” which were capable of consuming the host tree but keep it living at the same time.
Council said it was in the early stages of reviewing its Street Tree Strategy and trees recently removed will be replaced with species identified as suitable for the location.
Tree removal on View Street earlier this week.
