906 elms already affected by Dutch elm disease in Hollands Kroon |
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Young trees on Wieringen particularly affected; numbers remain below 2025 levels for now
Up to and including 31 July, 906 municipal elms affected by Dutch elm disease have been identified in Hollands Kroon this year. Losses are particularly high on Wieringen, where 695 trees have been affected. Notably, more than 85 percent of all affected elms have a trunk diameter of less than twenty centimetres.
| Image for illustration, generated with AI |
Most of the diseased elms on Wieringen are located in shelterbelts along rural roads. The trees grow relatively close together, making it easier for the disease to spread. Of the 906 affected trees across the municipality, 785 have a trunk diameter of less than twenty centimetres. According to the municipality, many of the affected trees on Wieringen are young specimens growing in shelterbelts.
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695 diseased elms have already been identified on Wieringen this year
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Significant fluctuations from year to year
Although 906 diseased trees is a substantial number, the current total remains below last year's figure. In 2025, 1,165 municipal elms were removed in Hollands Kroon due to Dutch elm disease. In 2024, the figure was 2,444, while 1,836 trees were affected in 2021. Inspections are continuing this year, meaning the 2026 total could rise further.
Around a quarter of all trees in Hollands Kroon are elms. The species is important in coastal areas because elms tolerate wind and salt well. At the same time, the high proportion of elms makes the tree population vulnerable to Dutch elm disease. The fungus can spread through root contact and via elm bark beetles.
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More than 85 percent of the affected elms have a trunk diameter of less than twenty centimetres
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Diseased trees removed quickly
The municipality inspects its elms every year. Infected trees are removed as quickly as possible to prevent further spread. Private owners can also report a suspected diseased elm to the municipality. The tree is then inspected and, if infection is confirmed, removed free of charge.
Meanwhile, Hollands Kroon continues to plant new trees. Under the Green Structure Plan adopted in 2021, at least 475 trees must be planted in public spaces every year for a minimum of ten years. The municipality aims to maintain its tree population and develop a healthy green structure.
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The current total of 906 diseased elms could rise further in the coming months
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This article was previously published on 10 August 2026 on the website of Boomzorg.
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