emerald ash borer

​The Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis or EAB) is responsible for the destruction of tens of millions of ash trees in 27 states. Native to Asia, it likely arrived in the United States hidden in wood packing materials.

The first U.S. identification of Emerald Ash Borer was in southeastern Michigan in 2002. There are a variety of treatment options that can serve as a control measure for the EAB, but they are not a cure. Because pesticide regulations differ from State to State, homeowners should contact their State department of agriculture or local extension office for guidance.

---

• The beetle is currently found in Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
  

What is at Risk:

• All 16 species of ash trees
• White Fringetree

What is the source:

• Firewood
  
• Ash wood products
  
• Infested ash plantings and trees
• Ash wood packing material
• Ash wood debris and trimmings, including chips
• These materials can spread the infestation even if no beetles are visible.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Yellow, thin or wilted foliage
• Unusual woodpecker presence and pecking holes
• D-shaped beetle exit holes
• Shoots growing from roots or a tree's trunk, often with larger-than-normal leaves

What you can do:

• Don't move firewood. EAB larvae can survive hidden in the bark of firewood. Remember: buy local, burn local.
• Inspect your trees. If you see any sign or symptom of an EAB infestation, contact your State agriculture agency.
• Talk to friends, neighbors and co-workers about EAB and what they should be aware of on their trees.
• Ask questions. If you receive ash nursery stock or firewood, know its point of origin and your supplier, as larvae could be hiding under the bark.
• Know State and Federal regulations. Make sure you understand regulations that govern your state and those you may visit.
• Know the quarantines in your area and learn to leave Hungry Pests behind.

Source: USDA
​               Animal and Plant Inspection Service