The Emerald Ash Borer - What to do!

The Emerald Ash Borer - What to Do!

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is a destructive pest that attacks and kills ash trees. The insect is native to Asia and was first discovered in the United States in 2002 in Michigan. Since then, it has spread to many states, including North Carolina. The EAB has caused significant damage to ash trees across the country, and it is important for property owners to understand how to identify its damage and what to do if a tree is infested.

One of the first signs of EAB infestation is the presence of D-shaped exit holes in the bark of the tree. These holes are about the size of a pencil eraser and are created by adult beetles as they emerge from the tree. Another sign of infestation is the presence of serpentine-shaped tunnels, or galleries, under the bark of the tree. These galleries are created by the larvae of the EAB as they feed on the tree's inner bark.

Another sign to look out for is the crown dieback, which is a gradual loss of leaves and branches in the upper portion of the tree. This occurs as the EAB larvae feed on the tree's inner bark, disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients to the upper portions of the tree. Another sign of EAB infestation is the presence of woodpeckers, which feed on the EAB larvae under the bark.

If you suspect that a tree is infested with EAB, it is important to contact a professional tree service company to confirm the infestation and determine the best course of action. In most cases, a tree infested with EAB will need to be removed, as there is currently no effective treatment to save a tree once it is infested.

If you have ash trees on your property, it is important to take preventative measures to protect them from EAB infestation. One of the most effective ways to do this is to have your ash trees treated with a pesticide by a professional tree service company. This treatment can protect the tree from EAB infestation for several years, giving you time to plan for the eventual removal of the tree.

Another preventative measure is to diversify the tree species on your property. By planting a variety of tree species, you can reduce the impact of a pest or disease outbreak on your property. This is especially important for property owners with multiple ash trees on their property, as the loss of all of these trees can have a significant impact on the property's value and aesthetics.

It is also important to be aware of the quarantine restrictions and regulations in your area. Emerald Ash Borer is a regulated pest and the movement of ash wood and firewood is restricted in many areas to prevent the spread of the pest.
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In conclusion, the Emerald Ash Borer is a destructive pest that attacks and kills ash trees. If you suspect that a tree on your property is infested with EAB, it is important to contact a professional tree service company to confirm the infestation and determine the best course of action. To protect your ash trees from EAB infestation, you can have them treated with a pesticide, diversify the tree species on your property, and be aware of the quarantine restrictions and regulations in your area.