Battling the Emerald Ash Borer: When Removal is the Only Choice

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has become one of the most destructive non-native pests in North America, posing a significant threat to ash trees. According to the City of Rochester, EAB was first discovered in the Rochester, MN area in 2014. As a responsible property owner, it’s crucial to understand how to manage and potentially save your ash trees from this devastating beetle. In this post, we’ll explore the signs of EAB infestation and when it becomes necessary to remove an infected tree.

Identifying Emerald Ash Borer Infestations

Early detection is key in the fight against the Emerald Ash Borer. Here are the primary signs of an infestation:

• D-shaped exit holes: As adult borers emerge from trees, they leave behind distinct D-shaped exit holes, about 1/8 inch in diameter.
• Canopy thinning: Look for loss of leaves and dying branches at the top of the tree.
• Bark splits: Vertical splits in the bark can expose the larval galleries, which disrupt the tree’s ability to transport nutrients and water.
• Woodpecker activity: Increased feeding by woodpeckers can indicate the presence of EAB larvae under the bark.

When Removal is Necessary

Here are signs that an ash tree is likely beyond rescue and should be removed:

• Severe crown dieback: If more than 50% of the crown is dead, the tree’s chances of survival are significantly reduced.
• Extensive larval galleries: If there are widespread galleries under the bark, the tree’s ability to transport nutrients will be fatally disrupted.
• Structural weakness: Trees showing signs of major structural weakness pose safety hazards and should be removed.

Removing infested trees is crucial to prevent further spread of EAB to nearby healthy ash trees. Always use professional tree removal services to handle infested trees, as improper removal can spread the borer larvae.

Conclusion

Managing the threat of the Emerald Ash Borer is a significant challenge. With early detection and proper treatment, it is possible to save many trees. However, recognizing when a tree is beyond saving and needs to be removed is just as important to prevent the spread of this pest. Be proactive in monitoring your ash trees and consult with professionals to keep your green spaces healthy and vibrant.

Contact us for a free estimate to evaluate your ash trees.