The Town of Altona is currently seeking advice from arborists to see what can be done to save Ash trees from dying due to plant lice known as aphids.

Chief Administrative Officer Dan Gagne believes the town has over 600 of these trees, with 75-80 already infested or dying. This is a cause for concern since several of Altona's streets consist primarily of Ash trees, so removing them would be very noticeable.

"Last year we formulated a plan moving forward and this year was the first year in that plan to start replacement of dying or very unhealthy Ash trees. That program is underway, but with the latest news from Winkler and Morden regarding the potential spraying of trees that are being affected by aphids and other diseases .. we will be doing some more research to see if we can adjust our plan to hopefully extend the life of some trees," said Gagne.

A tree infected by aphids can be identified by leaf loss, shrivelled leaves, and branches covered in web-like threads.

Gagne says, while there is government compensation for the removal of Elm trees, there is no such program for other tree varieties.