A number of trees have been observed being removed throughout Winkler. The trees consisting primarily of Manchurian and Black Ash, are being killed by aphid-like insects called Cottony Psyllids.

The City's Director of Works and Operations, Peter Froese, says the insects have spread through Winkler and other surrounding communities.

Froese explained what the city is doing to deal with the infestation.

"We started applying a chemical to them this week, so we will be spraying all trees that we possibly can in the next week or two."

The insects damage the trees during their nymph stage, when the young feed on the leaves' sap and inject the plant with toxins. The leaves then shrivel and die, and over time the insects will damage the branches of the tree and kill the plant.

Froese explained how people can help prevent their Ash trees from being infected by spraying this with the chemicals Trounce or Malathion.

Infected trees can be identified by premature leaf loss, shriveled leaves and curled leaves, branches covered by web-like threads, and by being visually covered by the insects.

The city will continue removing all dying, and dead trees, but hopes to save as many as possible.

The City of Morden is also dealing with the same issue. Around 100 of the city's 360 Manchurian Ash Trees are being removed.