The North American Emerald Ash Borer Infestation and Solutions
It’s Origins, Solutions. And Consequences
The Emerald Ash Borer is an insect native to North East Asia, that is now steadily migrating across the United States. In doing so, it has affected tens of millions of ash trees in its devastating wake. The insects lay eggs on the bark of ash trees, followed by larvae then burrowing its way into them. Ultimately, in doing so, they steal the tree’s vital nutrients. If not treated promptly, tree death will most certainly occur. These little beetles have caused billions of dollars in damages to the forestry industry. Urban arborists have been reeling for years on how to adequately protect ash trees from this foreign infestation.
The Emerald Ash Borer made its first appearance in the US during 2002 when a crate, comprised of infested wood, arrived in Michigan as a delivery from Asia. Today, it is found in thirty-five states, as well as a few Canadian provinces. As a result, one can argue that they are quite the little travel bugs. However, all joking aside, these insects travel, multiply, and have the capability to wipe out mass groves at a time. The removal of these beetles, and the treatment of the ash trees, need to be taken seriously.
Ways to help prevent the ongoing spread of the Emerald Ash Borer include:
Do not move firewood of off your property, as they are often harboring the Emerald Ash Borer.
Do not purchase firewood from out of state, as doing so could potentially bring more Emerald Ash Borers into your state.
Keep a lookout for D-shaped holes, measuring one-eighth inch across, in the bark of your ash trees. This is the tell-tale sign of adult Emerald Ash Borers.
If you find the signs of the Emerald Ash Borer on your property, contact a certified arborist for assistance.
Ash trees provide urban environments with both shade and aesthetic benefits. Additionally, Ash trees comprise one of the primary components of everyday wood-based products, including furniture and baseball bats. The Emerald Ash Borer infestation has devastated the timber industry and robbed countless neighborhoods of the desired shade. As of today, the Emerald Ash Borer has killed tens of millions of ash trees and threatens to kill the majority of what is left!
Help us save the trees by having your property inspected for an Emerald Ash Borer infestation!
Call Arbor Art Tree Care, Inc. at (615) 299-9999 to set up an appointment today.
More information about the emerald ash borer, please visit us at www.arborart.net/resources
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