Alpine Shire Council is investigating the suspected poisoning of a large Elm tree after several drill holes containing a strong-smelling substance were discovered at its base.
The tree, which appears to be more than half dead, was found in this condition recently near the Myrtleford Bowls Club.
Council officers have spoken to community members who work in the area, but no information has been provided regarding how the damage occurred.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, urged anyone with information to come forward.
“Deliberate poisoning of trees is not only destructive to our environment but also illegal," she said.
"We encourage anyone who has seen or heard anything about this incident to report it to Council.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Council by emailing info@alpineshire.vic.gov.au or calling (03) 5755 0555.