The Lorca City Council has launched a new operation to curb the spread of the elm leaf beetle, an insect that recurrently affects the common elm trees (Ulmus minor) found in the municipality's parks, gardens, and avenues. The operation, scheduled to begin at 22:00 PM on Friday, August 14th, and continue until Saturday, August 15th, will take place in various locations within the city limits where a higher incidence of this pest has been detected.
The Councillor for Parks and Gardens, Antonio David Sánchez, explained that the objective is to act preventively and effectively to preserve the health of the trees and ensure the proper maintenance of green spaces. The elm leaf beetle, whose scientific name is Xanthogaleruca luteola, thrives in drought conditions and mild temperatures, which has led to a surge in its activity during the summer months.
Affected areas and recommendations for residents
The works will take place in areas such as Casa Mula, the Águilas and La Pulgara roads, the Virgen de las Huertas promenade, Puente Alto, as well as the Corregidor Lapuente, Margarita Lozano, Ramón y Cajal, and La Constitución avenues. Work will also be carried out on Avenida de las Fuerzas Armadas, near Sancho Dávila Park, on Poeta Para Vico Street, and on the Fajardo Bravo and Los Tristes avenues.
Given the proximity of homes to these areas, the city council has asked residents to take extra precautions while the fumigation is underway. Recommended measures include keeping windows closed in nearby houses , avoiding hanging laundry outside, and removing pets, cages, feeders, and waterers from patios, balconies, and terraces. These guidelines aim to reduce any risk of exposure to the pesticide.
Security and citizen collaboration
The company awarded the contract for the maintenance and upkeep of green spaces in the town center and around schools will be responsible for carrying out the treatment. According to the City Council, all necessary safety measures will be taken to ensure the work is done correctly and to minimize disruption to pedestrians and residents. The councilor emphasized that these actions are essential to protect urban trees from pests that can seriously weaken them, such as the elm beetle.
Sánchez also expressed his gratitude for the cooperation and understanding of the residents, noting that these interventions are necessary for the care and conservation of the city's trees. If left unchecked, the elm leaf beetle infestation can cause a considerable loss of leaf mass, leaving only the veins in cases of severe infestation. Therefore, these types of preventative treatments are crucial for maintaining Lorca's green spaces in optimal condition.
With this new action, the City Council reaffirms its commitment to urban sustainability and the protection of natural heritage, while reminding residents of the importance of following instructions during the work. The nighttime intervention will minimize disruption to traffic and daily activities, and it is hoped that the results will contribute to reducing the presence of this insect in the town's elm trees.