What is the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)?

EAB is an exotic beetle from Asia that was first discovered in United State in Michigan in 2002. This metallic green beetle bores into ash trees, ultimately killing them The Emerald Ash Borer is already responsible for the destruction of over 100 million ash trees in the U.S. Treating your trees early is essential as most trees die within 2 to 4 years of infestation.

How does it kill a tree?
Adult beetles lay eggs on the bark of ash trees. When the eggs hatch, the larvae (immature beetles) bore into the bark and feed on the transportation tissues of the tree. This disrupts the movement of nutrients and water within the tree, girdling it and causing tree death.

What trees are affected?

All species of ash native to the United States are susceptible. Green, white, black and blue ash are extremely susceptible. Recently, EAB specimens have been found infesting white fringetree; the true susceptibility of this host is unknown.

How long does it take for a tree to die?
Within 2 years of observing symptoms, most of the crown of the tree will be dead. Complete tree death typically occurs within 4 years, but may take as few as 2-3 years.

What does a tree infested with the emerald ash borer look like?
Initially, the top of the tree (the crown) begins to thin and partially die. Sprouting from the main stem of the tree, may occur. The presence of insects below the bark leads to increased woodpecker activity, which causes the tree to look like it is losing patches of bark. In severe cases, the bark of the tree may split in places where the larvae are feeding beneath. Direct evidence of the beetle may also be seen. Small, 1/8" D-shaped exit holes, where adult beetles emerged from the tree, will occur wherever a beetle emerges. This may be above eye level, so it is important not to discount a symptomatic tree if no exit holes are observed. If the bark is peeled back, the galleries where larvae have fed may also be observed; they are meandering and are usually filled with frass (sawdust and insect excrement). Larvae may also be visible underneath the bark. The cream-colored larvae have bell-shaped segments and can be up to 1.25" in length.

Why are ash trees important?
Ash wood is greatly valued for its strength and elasticity and is often used for baseball bats, bows, tool handles, and other products that require durability, strength, and resilience. Green ash is planted widely as a landscape tree in urban areas and is a valuable native component of wetland areas. Ash foliage and seeds are fed upon by numerous animals as well as butterfly and moth caterpillars.