Where did the emerald ash borer originate?

The emerald ash borer (EAB) is a devastating invasive insect species originating from Asia, accidently introduced in Canada and the United States in the 1990’s.  Eab was first detected damaging ash trees in Michigan in 2002 and  has since killed millions of ash trees as it has spread further north into Canada, west to Minnesota, east into New York, and as far south as Kentucky.  Ash is a vital component of forest ecosystems and urban settings alike, severely threatened by the spread of this wood boring pest.   

How does EAB impact ash trees?

The destructive life stage of Emerald Ash Borer is the wood boring larvae, which threatens the existence of the native ash genus in North America.  The larvae, creamy white in color, create a series of galleries as they feed on live cambium just under the bark, over time girdling the tree by cutting off the flow of water and nutrients.  Some common indicators of EAB could include dead branches, woodpecker damage, d-shaped exit holes, and bark splits displaying s-shaped larvae galleries.   Ash trees are most likely killed in 2-3 years in areas of infestation,  especially since EAB’s rapid destruction opens trees up to attack from other forest pests, disease, and decay.

What options do I have to manage for the
Emerald Ash Borer?

To date, the most effective treatments for EAB have been preventative tree-by-tree applications, best administered prior to an infestation.  Such treatments help protect ash trees from EAB invasion, and have been known to save trees after mild infestation of the pest.  An emerald ash borer presence within 20-30 miles of your ash trees poses a serious threat, which makes recognition of any EAB infestation in your region imperative.  The adult Emerald Ash Borer disperses by flight, but the primary factor aiding the pest’s spread is accidental human transport such as the movement of firewood and nursery stock, making awareness crucial to our fight to save ash trees.  Feel free to contact Precision Forestry Protection with any questions about management and treatment for the Emerald Ash Borer at (304) 641-7373.

What is the purpose of Emerald Ash Borer trapping?

One of the most important factors in our fight to save ash trees is early detection, accomplished by survey trapping of the emerald colored adult stage of the insect.  EAB traps, typically accompanied by a synthetic lure to attract the pest, are used to monitor the spread and extent of infestation of EAB. Precision Forestry Protection offers EAB trapping services for state, federal, and private entities.  Call us today with any questions about EAB trapping and let PFP aide in monitoring and fighting the spread of this invasive insect.