Barriers to management of tree diseases: Framing perspectives of pinewood managers around Dothistroma Needle Blight

Abstract

Forest Managers in the UK and elsewhere are facing new threats such as climate change and novel pests and diseases. Strategies seek to coordinate and steer appropriate responses through raising awareness and encouraging action but little is known about how individual managers respond to disease threats. We studied how managers have responded to the threat of Dothistroma Needle Blight (DNB), a disease which can affect growth and cause mortality of many pine species, and the key frames influencing their responses. Frames involve values and beliefs and allow people to make sense of, and interpret, events, experiences or issues. Interviews revealed broad awareness of the disease and threat it poses, but also high levels of inaction. Lack of action was associated with several framings grouped around causes and perceived severity of DNB, locating responsibility for prevention and management, mistrust/scepticism of advice and uncertainties over the future impact. These framings need to be considered as strategies are refined and new knowledge of disease behaviour is communicated to those from whom action is required.

Keywords: Dothistroma Needle Blight; Forests; Framing; Management; Pest and diseases.