ISA Certified Arborist MA-4657A
The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) was first introduced from Asia into the port of Detroit in the 1990s. It has since killed upwards of 100 million ash trees in 14 states, and it threatens to kill an estimated 7.5 billion ash trees in North America.
EAB has now been found in Howard County, Annapolis, Prince George’s County and several counties in Northern Virginia. And an important tree species is now in imminent danger in the Forest Hills community. We are only on the cusp of the infestation and there is still plenty of time to protect valuable ash trees in your neighborhood. Not sure if you have an ash tree? Click here for help with identification (PDF file).
Ideally, ash tree owners should begin treatment when an EAB infestation has been detected within 15 miles and before their trees are infested. This means that the time to act is now, because preventative treatments are significantly more effective than therapeutic ones. While treatment is a viable management option, it is not necessarily appropriate for every ash tree. Reading the Coalition for Urban Ash Tree Conservation’s recommendations (PDF file) is a good place to start.
Property owners should work with a certified arborist to determine the best course of action on a tree-by-tree and property-by-property basis. You can find a qualified arborist by searching the TCIA directory by zip code.
Do you have any questions about the safety, health and beauty of your trees and shrubs? “Ask the Tree Expert” and see your questions answered here! Send questions with photos to [email protected].
Marlene Berlin says
Where are the ash trees in Forest Hills? What other diseases and pests have you found in the Forest Hills area this summer? What are signs of trouble?