Emerald Ash Borer
Emerald Ash Borer found in Mass.
On Sept 18 2012 It was announced by the MA DCR and USFS NE region of the identification of an Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in a trap in the Massachusetts community of Dalton. This was the first known identification of this pest in MA.
The EAB, through dendrocronology, was introduced into North America sometime in the 1990's. It was first reported killing ash (genus Fraxinus) trees in the Detroit MI area in 2002. Since then, infestations have been found throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, the Chicago area, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York and recently in Kansas, Conn. and now Mass for a total of 20 states since 2002. Due to this extensive area of infestation, the USFS has determined eradication is not possible, but thru regulation/quarantine, education and research the very long term outlook for saving our native ash trees is possible.
For Mass the DCR will be holding public hearings shortly to determine the extent and level of quarantine areas, as well as what type of response to control the spread of this insect. Currently all ash trees within a 2 mile radius of the trapped insect will be removed.
In other states infested tree removal, and wood products are quarantined within the area of infestation unless treated thru one of several pre approved mitigation measures.
Generally in Mass, of forested woodlands average about 10% ash, but this is another forest tree we will be losing in the short term. The insect can fly approx 8 miles, but moves much faster on firewood, saw logs, pallets etc. that will be the focus of any quarantine area. This may effect of timber sales.
Within our community identification of Ash trees as well as a condition assessment should be conducted, and proactively remove any ash trees that are not in the best of health and condition.
Specimen Ash trees can be saved by soil treatment or injection by a number of insecticides (some restricted to licensed applicators). Several of these have shown multiple year resistance to EAB. Treatment should be considered when EAB has been positively identified with in a county or <20 miles away.
artwork by David Howard